About the song
“Drain You” by Kurt Cobain is one of the standout tracks from Nirvana’s groundbreaking second studio album, “Nevermind”, released on September 24, 1991. Written by Cobain, the song captures the raw, unfiltered energy of the grunge era while showcasing his unique songwriting ability to blend visceral emotion with vivid, often cryptic imagery. As a key piece of Nirvana’s legacy, “Drain You” has continued to resonate with fans, cementing its place as one of the band’s most celebrated deep cuts.
Album Context and Significance
“Nevermind” is widely regarded as one of the most influential albums in rock history. It catapulted Nirvana—and the Seattle grunge movement—to international fame. While songs like “Smells Like Teen Spirit” received much of the mainstream attention, “Drain You” stood out as a favorite among die-hard fans and Cobain himself. In fact, Cobain once stated in interviews that he considered “Drain You” to be on par with “Smells Like Teen Spirit”, emphasizing its importance in the band’s catalog.
The song appears midway through the album, serving as a blistering reminder of the band’s ability to blend melodic sensibility with a punk rock ethos. Its inclusion on “Nevermind” showcases Cobain’s artistic depth and the band’s capacity to create tracks that are both sonically aggressive and emotionally poignant.
Themes and Lyrics
At its core, “Drain You” explores themes of intimacy, dependency, and human connection. Cobain’s lyrics are characteristically abstract, but the song is often interpreted as reflecting the complexities of relationships—both romantic and platonic. Lines like “Chew your meat for you / Pass it back and forth in a passionate kiss” illustrate Cobain’s penchant for blending grotesque imagery with tender sentiment.
Some have speculated that the song draws on Cobain’s own experiences, particularly his intense relationships and his struggles with vulnerability. However, like much of Cobain’s work, the meaning is open to interpretation, inviting listeners to find their own connections within its evocative lines.
Musical Composition
Musically, “Drain You” is a prime example of Nirvana’s dynamic sound. The track begins with a catchy, almost pop-like guitar riff before transitioning into an explosive chorus. The bridge features a cacophony of noise, with dissonant guitar feedback and Cobain’s anguished vocals, embodying the chaotic energy that defined Nirvana’s live performances. The contrast between the song’s melodic structure and its raw execution encapsulates the essence of grunge.
Dave Grohl’s relentless drumming and Krist Novoselic’s pulsating bassline provide a solid foundation, allowing Cobain’s guitar work and vocals to shine. The interplay between these elements creates a sense of tension and release, a hallmark of Nirvana’s sound.
Cultural Impact
While not released as a single, “Drain You” became a staple of Nirvana’s live shows and a favorite among fans. It reflects the essence of Cobain’s songwriting: deeply personal yet universally relatable. The song’s raw energy and lyrical complexity have made it a subject of fascination among music critics and fans alike, reinforcing Cobain’s status as a voice of his generation.
Legacy
Decades after its release, “Drain You” remains a testament to Kurt Cobain’s genius. It showcases his ability to turn raw emotion into music that is both accessible and profound. For those who seek to understand Nirvana beyond their biggest hits, “Drain You” is a perfect starting point. It captures the heart of the grunge movement while transcending it, leaving a lasting impact on listeners across generations.
Video
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
One baby to another says, “I’m lucky to’ve met you”
I don’t care what you think unless it is about me
It is now my duty to completely drain you
I travel through a tube and end up in your infection[Chorus]
Chew your meat for you
Pass it back and forth
In a passionate kiss
From my mouth to yours
I like you[Verse 2]
With eyes so dilated, I’ve become your pupil
You taught me everything without a poison apple
The water is so yellow, I’m a healthy student
Indebted and so grateful, vacuum out the fluids[Chorus]
Chew your meat for you
Pass it back and forth
In a passionate kiss
From my mouth to yours
I like you[Interlude]
You, you, you
You, you
Ahh![Verse 1]
One baby to another says, “I’m lucky to’ve met you”
I don’t care what you think unless it is about me
It is now my duty to completely drain you
I travel through a tube and end up in your infection[Chorus]
Chew your meat for you
Pass it back and forth
In a passionate kiss
From my mouth to yours
Sloppy lips to lips
You’re my vitamins
I like you