After signing to the major label DGC Records in 1991, Nirvana found unexpected mainstream success with 'Smells Like Teen Spirit', the first single from their landmark second album Nevermind (1991). They developed a sound that relied on dynamic contrasts, often between quiet verses and loud, heavy choruses. In the late 1980s, Nirvana established itself as part of the Seattle grunge scene, releasing its first album, Bleach, for the independent record label Sub Pop in 1989. Their music maintains a popular following and continues to influence modern rock culture. Nirvana's success popularized alternative rock, and they were often referenced as the figurehead band of Generation X. Founded by lead singer and guitarist Kurt Cobain and bassist Krist Novoselic, the band went through a succession of drummers, most notably Chad Channing, before recruiting Dave Grohl in 1990. Nirvana was an American rock band formed in Aberdeen, Washington, in 1987.
