Rapper Jay-Z’s upcoming album “Magna Carta Holy Grail” will feature lyrics written by Kurt Cobain, the late lead singer of the grunge band “Nirvana.” Courtney Love, Cobain’s widow, has given Jay-Z permission to use lyrics from the band’s iconic hit single “Smells like Teen Spirit.”
According to AceShowBiz, Love owns the rights to all of the late rocker’s music. She told the Huffington Post, “[At first, Jay-Z used it] without asking, which is kind of nervy, but the business side has been taken care of, so it's fine."
Love did not give any hints as to how the lyrics might be incorporated into the album or even what lyrics he may be using. However, she admits that Cobain’s daughter, Francis, might have an issue with Jay-Z’s use of the lyrics. We will find out soon enough, as the album will be released first to Samsung Galaxy users on July 4th and made available to the public for purchase on July 7th.
Fuse writes that Jay-Z has a history of using this grunge single. He performed the song as part of a live show in 2009, and recently stated that, “Teen Spirit' rang so loud because it was right on point with how everyone felt” and captured “the rebellious spirit of youth.”
Whether the lyrics will actually make the final cut is still unclear, but judging by the passion with which Jay-Z discusses the single, it’s probably safe to say fans can expect to find the lyrics on the album. Music is a language like no other, and being able to incorporate lyrics from a classic hit single of a beloved, late rocker is unquestionably a gift. By allowing the use of the lyrics, Love continues to give life to Cobain’s music. Be sure to check out “Magna Cart Holy Grail” to see if and how the rapper used the classic lyrics!
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