Nirvana’s Early Single “Sliver” Finds New Life on the Charts

Nirvana’s Early Single “Sliver” Finds New Life on the Charts

When discussing Nirvana’s discography, certain iconic tracks immediately come to mind. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” remains not only the band’s most recognizable anthem but also one of the most influential rock songs of all time. Other tracks like “Come as You Are” and “Lithium” also stand as defining moments in the band’s brief yet monumental career.

However, this week in the United Kingdom, fans have revived interest in a lesser-known Nirvana song. The band’s first proper single—written and composed entirely by its members—is once again making an impact on the charts.

“Sliver” Reenters the Official Physical Singles Chart

The song “Sliver” has reappeared on the Official Physical Singles Chart, a ranking of the top-selling physical singles in the U.K. that are available in formats such as CD, cassette, and vinyl. This week, the track reenters the list at No. 98, showcasing its enduring appeal among dedicated fans and collectors.

“Sliver” is a Recent Addition to the Chart

Despite being released more than three decades ago, “Sliver” is still relatively new to the Official Physical Singles Chart. It made its first-ever appearance on this ranking in August 2023, debuting at No. 53 before quickly falling off. Now, months later, the song has returned, fueled by ongoing interest from Nirvana’s fan base and continued purchases of physical editions.

Nirvana’s First U.K. Hit

Originally released in 1990, “Sliver” became Nirvana’s first proper hit in the U.K. when it charted at No. 90 on the Official Singles Chart in February 1991. Although it remained on the list for just a single week, its impact foreshadowed the band’s upcoming explosion in popularity. Later that same year, the release of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” would propel Nirvana to global superstardom, forever changing the landscape of rock music.

A Cult Classic from Nirvana’s Early Days

Despite its historical significance, “Sliver” was never included on a proper Nirvana studio album. Initially released as a standalone single, it wasn’t until December 1992 that it found a home on the compilation album Incesticide. This collection featured a mix of covers, demos, and rare recordings, serving as a deep dive into the band’s earlier years. By the time Incesticide was released, Nirvana had already become one of the biggest bands in the world, and the inclusion of “Sliver” helped introduce the track to a wider audience.

Even decades after its release, “Sliver” continues to resonate with fans. Its reemergence on the charts is a testament to Nirvana’s lasting influence and the enduring passion of their listeners.