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35 Years Ago Today, Nirvana Shot One of the Most Iconic Music Videos Ever for Less Than $50,000

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17.08.2026

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35 Years Ago Today, Nirvana Shot One of the Most Iconic Music Videos Ever for Less Than $50,000

On this day in 1991, Nirvana shot their iconic music video for “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” which broke grunge into the mainstream.

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On this day in 1991, Nirvana shot the music video for the song that broke grunge into the mainstream. In May 1991, the band recorded their hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit”. on September 24, 1991, the release of their sophomore album, Nevermind, defined the decade ahead. Ahead of the album’s release, “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was released as a single on September 10, 1991. Its iconic music video was shot one month before, on August 17.

The music video was shot at GMT Studios in Culver City, California, for less than $50,000. It was a low-budget shoot that featured real Nirvana fans as the audience. Ahead of the shoot, the........

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