Everybody wants a do-over. It’s true in life. It’s true in rock. And it’s the driving force behind Nirvana: The Amplified Come As You Are, music writer Michael Azerrad’s absorbing, admirable and personal sequel to his acclaimed 1993 bio Come As You Are: The Story Of Nirvana.
He wrote that book at the urging of Kurt Cobain and Courtney Love, who claimed they wanted him to “just tell the truth.” Azerrad now believes they saw him as a sympathetic, easily led novice who could help whitewash their damaged reputation. And he admits he unknowingly did their bidding by being too trusting, failing to fact-check their claims due to a tight deadline — and even ignoring negative stories to stay on their good side. In his new book — a labour of love crafted with 20/20 hindsight and brutal honesty — he re-examines and rewrites the whole story, pulling no punches when it comes to Cobain or himself. With The Amplified Come As You Are (plus the e-book and audiobook The Amplifications, which focus on the new material) in stores — and the 30th anniversary of Cobain’s death looming — Azerrad Zoomed in to discuss the book, Nirvana, his current musical tastes and plenty more. Enjoy.
