Veering away from old traditions seems like something Cobain would definitely do. In fact, the musician did not wear a tuxedo on his wedding day. Instead, he went to meet his then-girlfriend Courtney Love in checkered pyjamas at the Waikiki Beach in Honolulu. That was almost 30 years ago.

The artist was truly free-spirited, a likeable quality that most of his listeners applauded him for. If Cobain thought wearing a gown at the Headbangers Ball was appropriate, then he'd do it without regrets.

Some would think that it's a ruse for attention, others think it's because the artists could not care less for fashion rules. "I like to wear dresses because they're comfortable," Cobain shared with Melody Maker in 1992. Cobain would even wear a dress while performing. He then proceeded to wear a dress on the cover of The Face magazine in 1993.

This has influenced the likes of Kid Cudi, a famous rapper, to wear a dress in public. Lately, other male celebrities have also experimented with this style.

See also: Harry Styles Fashion: 8 Gender-bending Looks That We Love

Cobain was the antithesis of macho culture. Apart from wearing dresses, the artist also spoke up when it comes to gender inequality. You'll find footage of the musician openly advocating for anti-rape and gay rights. 

He wrote an anti-sexual assault anthem, defended fans in the crowd while performing when he noticed they were in trouble and turned away sexist fans.

See also: SOGIE Equality Bill: Everything You Need To Know—Supporters, Beginnings, And More

In an attempt to "piss off the rednecks and homophobes," the frontman made out with Krist Novoselic and David Grohl as the credits roll on SNL in 1992.

Tatler trivia: Cobain was good friends with RuPaul, a renowned drag queen.

Cobain knew how to put emotion into words. But there was something unique about the artist's oeuvre that has captured the attention of a whole generation. There are certainly others who brand him as overrated. But there is no denying that Cobain could write of passion, anger, and sadness. His songs were raw, real, and relatable.

The Grammy-nominated artist's skill in songwriting was also much appreciated, especially by his own bandmate, Grohl. 

Although he never wanted to be called the voice of his generation, history shows that the late singer-songwriter had always spoken for those who could not find the right words during his time.

NOW READ

Are we Filipinos Because We Love Music, or Do We Love Music Because We are Filipinos?

World Music Day 2021: 7 Filipina Artists Dominating the Global Music Industry—HER, Jess Conelly, And More

Pianist Cecile Licad on Love, Music, and Her Upcoming Concert