Sure, Nirvana ain’t twangy but it’s hard to ignore the impact that the group has had on musicians of all genres. That’s the impetus for our upcoming tribute to the legendary group, scheduled for Sunday, October 8th at Berlin in the New York City’s East Village. (info and tickets)
The line-up is as eclectic as it is amazing. You can see the poster below for the list of artists who will be celebrating the 30th anniversary of Nirvana’s In Utero album as well as performing other selections from the Nirvana catalog. Oh, and you can get a signed copy of the show poster signed by all the artists if you purchase a VIP package here.
But there’s more. As the death of Kurt Cobain reminded us, one of the harsh realities of suicide is that it robs us of art that could have been. To that end, all proceeds from the show will go the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. Our thanks to the artists and show volunteers – as well as musician Elisa Winter, our event collaborator – who are lending their time to support this important cause.
We also asked several of the performing artists to talk about their participation in the show. Here’s what they had to say:
PETE MANCINI – When the power of music is channeled for a good cause, amazing things can happen. I am very excited to celebrate Nirvana and hopefully raise some money for the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). Let’s crank some amps.
MAX MCEWEN (on Nirvana) – I discovered Nirvana in middle school through the game “rock band” and like most kids that age, the angsty-rock totally resonated with me from there on out. Though my tastes have changed through the years, Nirvana was one of the influential bands that lead me to want to be a drummer.
MAX MCEWEN (on the AFSP) – In high school I had a close friend, Danny, that i used to make music with, back when we didn’t care about high-quality production and all we wanted to do was rock out and write together. He was extremely kind and one the type of person that felt like a true friend. A couple of years after we went off to college, I learned that he killed himself. I, as with most people in his life, had no idea he was struggling with depression and was absolutely shocked and devastated. I support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention because his story isn’t isolated, in fact it’s increasingly common, and I hope that communities like AFSP can help other “Danny’s” get help before it’s too late.
JAMES RUSHIN – I survived my own attempt when I was overwhelmed and feeling like there were too many people trying to help me for me to be worth the help. Understanding the spectrum of why people consider leaving is why I want to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
ABBY AHMAD – Nirvana was one of my earliest songwriting/musical influences when I discovered them at the age of 11. Their songs inspired me to find an outlet for my own deep emotions by articulating them through song. I am grateful to be a part of this fundraiser for AFSP. While suicide is an issue that affects all, so many creative artists deeply struggle with their mental health. I have mourned the loss of both friends and colleagues. Having more universal education and access to resources is crucial.
BEN BEN – I don’t think any of us can fully comprehend what we lost when Kurt Cobain left this world – and the same is true for every life we lose to suicide. Last year, James Hetfield of Metallica made headlines for talking about suicide at an arena show, reflecting on how society just hasn’t come to grips with how to talk about this issue, let alone even begin to provide the loving support needed to support people who are at risk. I’m deeply grateful that the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) exists, both for the work they do directly, as well as for helping society to bring this issue into the light.
LILY DESMOND – Music is such a vital outlet. Being able to take my dangerous feelings and put them outside my body in the form of sound has helped save my life. It doesn’t work for everyone though, and I want to guarantee safety for those who need more support as they heal and learn to live.
RYAN MCCURDY – Destroy the stigmas surrounding suicidal ideation, tendencies, and personalities. It’s my pleasure as an artist grappling with these questions for myself and others to raise awareness and money for AFSP, out there doing the work and lifting the veil. Cobain forever, y’all.
FLOWER – So happy to be rocking out for AFSP! When I think about music, I think about how vital it is to our existence. It keeps me present, knowing we can make sense of the world with art!
JORDAN DIGGORY – As someone who has lost a number of friends to suicide, advocating for alternative methods of suicide prevention, including universal healthcare, basic housing for all, and communty building, is incredibly important to me. I’m proud and happy to share the stage with people who feel the same way. Also, Nirvana rips and everyone should bang their heads accordingly.
DEBRA DEVI – I struggled with suicidal ideation when I began remembering violent sexual abuse I’d experienced as a small child. Luckily, I was diagnosed with C-PTSD and treated by a therapist willing to see me for a very low rate. Not everyone is so lucky, but everyone experiencing suicidal thoughts deserves help they can afford. That’s why it’s important to me to support the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
JILL FIORE – Listening closely to Kurt Cobain’s lyrics opened me up to the possibility of being able to say whatever is on my mind in songwriting. That it really doesn’t matter if it makes sense to anyone else, or even entirely to myself, if it’s just something in my head that has to be said in that moment of the song. Kurt wrote songs that were not only conceptually unique but also perfect for his vocal range, and he gifted us with some truly incredible music. I find myself inspired by Nirvana to write songs for myself, and if any piece of one resonates with even one person, that to me is song writing success.
About the author: Mild-mannered corporate executive by day, excitable Twangville denizen by night.