Smells Like Teen Spirit on Kurt Cobain’s 1953 Martin D-18 “Grandpa”
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This was an iconic moment for me. Playing "Grandpa", a guitar originally owned by Mary Lou Lord, Kurt Cobain and Elliott Smith was a visceral experience. We had a short amount of time and so this was filmed in one take only. Thank you Keaton Yoo for capturing the moment.
I'm a huge fan of Martin Guitar, I want to be a part of their history. If you are too, let me know in the comments below. If you were inspired to play a Martin Guitar by watching one of my videos, let me know by emailing GuitarStories@maryspender.com
Thank you Martin! www.martinguitar.com/
00:00 Smells Like Teen Spirit
03:58 My Reaction
This was an iconic moment for me. Playing "Grandpa", a guitar originally owned by Mary Lou Lord, Kurt Cobain and Elliot Smith was a visceral experience. We had a short amount of time and so this was filmed in one take only. Thank you Keaton Yoo for capturing the moment. I'm a huge fan of Martin Guitar, I want to be a part of their history. If you are too, let me know in the comments below. If you were inspired to play a Martin Guitar by watching one of my videos, let me know by emailing GuitarStories@maryspender.com - I want to hear your story. Thank you Martin! www.martinguitar.com/
That guitar was behind a glass case (at the Martin factory) last time I was there. So much history in that instrument. I can’t believe you were able to play it… wow.. and beautiful job as always Mary! Keep being yourself!
What a wonderful tribute to Kurt. I'm sure that made that guitar happy to have some of his tunes vibrating through it again. Killer cover.
Elliott Smith played that too?! Damn
@@thefountainhead6175 Luv both Her & Gramps
I've been watching your channel for some time now because you are artist, not just a guitar player/singer/songwriter and absolutely original at all. You make even "covers" your own, I respect and appreciate that. I have a 1971 Martin 00-18 my mother (my biggest fan, She even named me after Eddy Arnold, RIP Mom!) purchased for me in 1971. I've had the guitar for 51 years and just had the neck reset for the 1st time. Now it plays really well again and sounds amazing. Big fan of Martin Guitars.
30 years later and I finally understand the words to this song.
And who knew they were such great lyrics? I never understood them before either.
🤣 true
Wtf? Is this song already 30 years old? Time does fly
Lol! You couldn't understand the lyrics to THIS song? Holy cow.. best stay away from Death Metal 😆
@@DanGartman no doubt!
It's really cool to see someone sing it in their own style and not just try to copy Kurt's voice. You absolutely nailed it Mary, you're awesome
Curious how ANYONE might copy Kurt's vox? Mind you I have always preferred acoustic versions of their songs. Mary Killed It Here and I don't even like Nirvana or the song.
Check out the Tori Amos version ~
nailed what?
Mary most definitely is multi-talented!! And, she does cause and share a (phenomenal personality) happiness even, a romantic happiness. Mary could be successful in movies! I love her! She's fantastic! So, what if, Mary & Elly Cooke got together as a team.
Well....Patti Smith certainly did her own thing. And an earlier tribute to KC with "About A Boy"
A guitar, a voice, and a song. No fancy production tricks or bells and whistles here, just pure feel and raw emotion and expression. A golden performance to be proud of.
The true definition of a great performance.
I mean... the voice does have some productuin tricks, bells and whistles... at least to my ear, right?
Not taking away from the performance, but there's definitly reverb on her voice that isn't on the guitar. Nothing wrong with bells and whistles
@@barry7517 exactly
@@Rossdink Maybe, I'm no expert. But it sounds like manufactured reverb to me, and it feels like occams razor where the simplest answer is the correct one. She doesn't talk about not using editing or tools so I don't know why there's an expectation that she's not
Hands down one of your best performances ever. The way you control the dynamics of your voice. Ufffff. Kurt must be smiling from up there.
up where?
Great sentiments! I totally agree.
Shotgun to the dome equals nirvana 😊
Love the way your voice cracks on entertain us, such a powerful moment. That was beautiful Mary, just about crying after that. Playing Kurt's is crazy enough but it was Elliot's too, I bet there's some pain, stories and riffs just seeping out of that thing.
After losing 2 fingers (index&middle) on my strumming hand in a work accident I wasn't sure if I'd ever be able to play guitar again. Two years later and I finally booked a session at my favourite studio to record a few songs and make a new start with my musical journey. This year I decided to go all-in and get a proper custom Martin OMJM-28 to tell myself I'm still in the game. It is by far the most wonderful instrument I've ever played, owned and loved. I'm ready for the rest of my musical endeavours.
Mary's voice is so mesmerizing. I could listen to her sing the phone book. It's so soothing. Like medicine for the soul.
I see this song playing in the background of a great movie: someone driving down a country road, with the late afternoon sun, shining in and out... LOVELY.
This song fits so well with where you like to put your vocals. This was the best song I ever heard you perform. Awesome , Awesome , Awesome, Awesome...so homerun. Glad you did this...wow.
Most people would not even try that song and you did and did it well .. congrats!!!
I tried to learn it for 10 minutes, and was glad that nobody heard me!
especially in one take..... props
@@csnide6702 remarkable!
Martins are just magical sounding.
Interesting how she does the bass line with her thumb! Great vocals as usual.
That must have been an amazing moment in your life! I remember recording Geddy Lee and I picked up his Black Rickenbacker bass like it was the holy grail.
This is an iconic cover.
I've listened to many of your performances and also many versions of this song. There is something special in this one. I can feel the song in a way I haven't felt before. Thanks Mary, that was great.
Wow! Mary really is living her best life. I've never played a Martin guitar but most of my favourite guitarists tend to use them. I think they're a singer song writer's dream. I think a Mary Spender signature Martin would be very tasteful.
Wow, very cool. Putting that tune on acoustic is very creative, and something that i never would have thought of. The epitome of art.
My dog liked your singing which puts you in great company. My boy is a thirteen year old boxer who can’t hear much at all. You and Christine McVie are the only ones that responds to. He looks so pleased when he can hear someone sing. Thank you so much.❤
Holy cow! That was awesome! Hearing you play the song, it sounded as if that was how it was intended to be played when written… Bravo!
Just a beautiful piece of art ! Thank you Mary for the good music and arrangements !
There's something about Smells like teen spirit sang in a slow ballad pace that makes it sound more convincing and cryptic. Love it
I've been moved by this song three times in my life. The original when I saw the video premier on MTV, when I heard Tori Amos' cover, and today. Thank you Miss Spender. You are a phenominal talent and so happy to be along on this ride. If at all possible, please get this track on streaming services. I think it's a magnificent homage to what this song means to music history when compared to what you are doing in this more modern, internet age. I am going to avoid standing on a soapbox explaining that in full detail, but those that know, already know. In any event, thank you again for sharing this moment with us.
But, please do. Great talent deserves as many words as we truly have and feel. So, please please do explain in full detail...
@@rickaitkins6539 It has more to do with the song and what happened to the music industry and what you heard on the radio after this song. The short of it is that record labels and their execs not only dictated what you heard on the radio and what songs were on the charts, they presumed to know what you like. A perfect example of that hubris is Simon Cowell. He seems to have mellowed on that a bit, but when AGT first started, he acted as if he was the sole purveyor of what was good and that we should follow in lock step. That's not to say there weren't some great songs in the past, but there were so many more great songs you never heard on the radio. I could go on with that, but I that's the basic gist. Mary's cover here, playing that guitar, was quite poignant and highlighted to me that musicians are redefining the industry 1 fan at a time the way "alt" bands did before Smells like Teen Spirit broke, outside of the bounds of major label control. The whole thing, not just her talent and this great cover, is what really moved me.
@@mikesearcy9151 Thank you so very much Mike!! Your life, your heart and your words truly mean so very much!!!! I'm in the wonderful area, (Tacoma, WA, USA) a little south of Seattle. Where are you? Thank you again. -Rick
You should check out Noah Gundersens version you won’t regret it!
Just beautiful! Keeping Cobain alive!
Yes you did own that song, I felt it all the way down in Memphis!
Just... Freaking AWESOME!!!!! That was absolutely spectacular Mary! Thank you so much for this musical delight! Love and respect to you from a fan in Quebec
One take is all you needed.....A Sunday morning gift....Thank you Mary.....Absolutely Splendered!
What skill and talent to make such a difficult song sound so effortless. One take.
That’s because it’s not a difficult song
Uh it's not a difficult song to play, It's actually relatively easy for a novice guitar player to learn and play. Doesn't mean it's not a fantastic song, or that Mary's arrangement/interpretation isn't fantastic(IT IS!).
What a historic instrument to get to play It seems like your life is getting crazier and crazier (in a good way) :)
Also, I love when Mary gets low in her voice 😊
A 1000 years ago that I do not like to think about I was treated for leukemia at St. Judes in Memphis, TN. A wonderful place that gives hope to so many. My family had to drive about 300 miles along I-40 to get to Memphis I listened to Nirvana over and over and over until the batteries wore down in my cassette player. If anything Nirvana made my moment easier and hearing this redux brings back those feelings and somehow gives me strength. Thank you, you incredibly talented one of us.
A one-take wonder! A true testament to your talent. Gifted and inspirational. Wonderful!
Thumbs up for your thumb bassline 👍🎸
You're such a amazing artist. The sensibility to turn this piece into a acoustic version was the best I ever seen.
What a perfect rendition. I didn't expect to shed a tear, but hearing that made me miss Kurt. BRAVO!
I understand that opinions on music are for the most part subjective but putting the couple of voice breaks ( hardly surprising considering) this is one of the best acoustic covers I've heard of this song. Nicely done.
Are you implying the voice breaks are “mistakes”? I thought the extra roughness was awesome.
Awesome! Especially with one take. On an iconic guitar to boot! Loved it!!! Thanks!
This song never fades, clicked as soon as it uploaded!
What an awesome moment. Kurt is one of my biggest influences in terms of singing. I'm a classically trained piano player mostly heh.
I had a 1968 given to me by my second cousin, rest in peace, who was closer to me than my sibs. She knew Martin was my guitar choice because it was and is the guitar of greats, because it had the perfectly balanced sound of a Martin from the bottom string to the top. There is no empty spot in the Martin sound. I also owned a custom which I happily gave up before I gave up the D18 she gave me, because she knew it was my dream and my heart's desire as an aspiring singer-songwriter. I was broke and hungry and finally had to sell it. It was my last guitar and most beloved, clearly as she gifted it to me and its sound soared higher than the angels.
Love when artists just do their thing and don't just copy the song. This was great.
Someone was feeling it! Great job! What a moment can make when one being is into it!
It looked like you had so much fun!!! And a great performance, one of my faves you’ve done. Keep up the great work!😊 Oh wow and owned by Elliot Smith too, that takes me back.
Wow Mary that was awesome thank you! Shows how versatile your playing style and voice is. really was a great version.
i come back to this time and again, an I can't play it just once., always watch-listen to this 2 or 3 times over every visit here. 300k is low, but it is a discovery issue. The track is the bomb!!!! I would love to hear you trading off versuses with Mr Kurt C. A reminder of the great loss. So glad you took this on. You felt emotional at the end of song, we were feeling the emotion all the way through. ty fo this gift...great cover
That was a real treat, I bet. Beautifully played.
Thanks for sharing this special moment. Your reaction at the end says it all. So brave, and a one take wonder. Loved it.
“Shake it up baby now,twist and shout!” Excellent!
When you play it with just a guitar you can tell how good of a song it is just by itself without anything else. good job
It was wonderful Mary 🤗☺️😍 You looked like you were having a grand Old Time. Your performances always make me happy 😊
It was fantastic meeting you at the factory, much respect, and glad filming went well!
Mary Spender has been in my feed for months and I’ve never clicked until now. I’m so glad I did, this was phenomenal.
I grew up with this song and clearly remember my sister playing it for me the cassette single in her car, circa '91. This is the best cover I've heard of this by a long shot! Amazing work. You really brought your own energy and voice to the song.
So well done! Fantastic Mary.
The emotion attached to this performance is clear to see and hear. Engaging, emotive, original and heartfelt. What an iconic instrument, and further proof (if any was needed) that a great song works in lots of different formats. Bravo!
A beautiful, passionate tribute to a fantastic song, artist and I love your magnificent interpretation of it, Mary. Wonderful!
My word Mary you are such an awesome musician and artist.
Fantastic Mary!!! You nailed it!!! I have a Martin D-16-GT that from the moment I took it off the wall it felt right. When I touched the strings it spoke to me. My great grandfather had a 1905 Washburn for 67 years that he absolutely loved. My Martin is the same for me.
Very, very beautiful. Like your low voice.
what an incredible musical lineage! The guitar is in good hands. I wish you had more time with the guitar and recorded a whole set of songs.
Wow. Mary Spender on Mary Lou’s Grandpa. And reworking Smells Like Teen Spirit…finger style that would make Elliott proud. So much Bravo 👏
How awesome for you - reminds me of when I used to see Mary Lou Lord playing the Park Street T stop in Boston in the early '00s.
this broke my internet, incredible job well done
Lovely version, Mary! I'm so used to hearing this on an electric guitar that I couldn't really imagine it any other way. This acoustic version proves how a song can transcend what we normally expect! 👍👍👍
What's it feel like to channel Kurt Cobain's spirit? Nicely done, I was mesmerized.
the raw back-of-the-throat moments cause goosebumps
Please, please, please do a tutorial on your version. Or at least share tabs. Amazing!!!
I really liked this cover Mary. Guitar work, singing and overall arrangement is awesome. 👍👍👍🎶👍
Your voice is amazing. This is my new favorite version of Smells Like Teen Spirit.
Brought some tears to my eyes at the end. I know how it must feel as a musician to gice such a good performance and also playing an icons guitar..another fellow musician who gave a lot of joy but also had a lot of pain. Excellent cover
Loved this guitar
Absolutely incredible
So dope. It’s kinda like if a mum walked in and picked up her sons guitar in the 90’s but seriously killer. 👌
You lucky duck, Mary! That is awesome! What a guitar
That's the way to do it. Live, one take, wonderful.
Great performance. That voice! 😍
Love love love this, one of my favourite songs, fantastic interpretation of it.
Just listening to this again after the Green Day cover - the hairs on the back of my neck are standing on end. Keep being awesome.
Beautiful 😊 Really enjoy it. Keep up the good work!
Hi Mary, I normally do not comment on videos that I watch but for this one I was inspired to do so. First, I want to thank you for sharing your talent and abilities. They motivate me to play more and expand my musical skills. Second, I too am a Martin fan. I purchased a new D-28 in 1986 and it has been my workhorse ever since. Although not a professional I have played in several church folk groups over the years and found playing my Martin such a joyful experience. This had carried through my now retirement and brings me joy each day. Although I live in the US (Maine), my wife and I have traveled to the UK a few times. Once taking the train from Bradford On Avon to Bristol. Since I have been subscribed to your channel for several years, I had thought of your school days there. I certainly get a kick out of your travels to the US like your time at NAMM and Norm’s Rare Guitars. Best wishes for your future and the inspiration you have provided. Bob P.
Sounds amazing! I love the Lithium - ish staccato approach you went with for the verses. Bravo! ❤️👏🏼 🤘🏼😝🤘🏼 👏🏼❤️
True
That was pure art...chapeau!
Love this Mary! Thanks for posting. Love your voice! And take on this song
Amazing cover. So smooth... best yet.
This was absolutely amazing! Mary you're a blessing to this 🌎. Keep up the great work!
Such a unique voice🔥😍 and damn what an experience! Loving it
This was fantastic Mary!
Just a woman, a guitar and a song and she killed it. Love your voice. The lower registers are like a warm embrace.
This is so great! Love it…
I know this is probably blasphemous but I've never actually liked listening to the original version by Nirvana... but your rendition being so immediate is absolutely brilliant .!! ..Very very special...Thank you...!!.
I'm right there with you! Can't stand Cobain's voice, so I never got into Nirvana....but Mary's version was fantastic.
Same, I only like the drums in the original version,
@@richardharrold9736 you know that for a fact do you? Ridiculous comment!
@@richardharrold9736 so the fact that Nirvana made a critically / industry acclaimed album (albeit not a particularly commercially successful one) without Grohl when Kurt was just 21yo is somehow proof to you that he would never have achieved fame / success outside of the PNW if he didn't meet Grohl? Lol! OK dude. If you say so.
Such a phenomenal voice! Brilliant.
A soulful and pure delivery, You made it your own! Excellent!
Never been a Nirvana fan but this version is absolutely stunning. The voice, the guitar playing... just wow.
@@vitalogynevermind6829 🤣
I love your version of Smells Like Teen Spirit. I think you have made this song yours. I'll add I've so intentionally not listened to the original song for years. You've given it something more that the original lacks.
Awesome. Goosebumps, Mary. Great job. 🤘🏻
Legit best cover ive seen of this.
Amazing performance and interpretation! Well deserved to play that guitar.
Love how it feels more jazzy and waltzy. It definitely it a refreshing and amazing take on a classic headbangin tune. Highly impressive and impeccable performance 👏 wish I could give it 2 thumbs up.
Simply amazing. Thank you!
had to wipe my eyes 3/4 way thru , thru to the end🥲An this is a return trip of many to this capture. This is classique cut you did. Just amazing.
Wow…that’s stirring up some ghosts. I love the soul, emotions, and the reaction at the end! Mary, that really touched me. Thank you for sharing your music! ❤ 🙏