Kurt Cobain rejected money as a measure of happiness — and it feels more relevant than ever

Trigger Warning: This article contains a mention of suicide that some readers might find distressing. 

What is life if we’re not happy or at least at peace with who we are and what we do? Legendary artist Kurt Cobain long reflected the idea that happiness doesn’t come from money. The singer lost his life to suicide in 1994, according to Rolling Stone. However, his charm, music and kind heart are still being remembered and cherished by fans across the world. In a video shared by u/NoRelief63 on January 24, 2026, on the r/KurtCobain forum, an interview with the Nirvana band member from the 90s resurfaced, reminding us to chase happiness over tangible and monetary gains. People continue to relate to and agree with it even today. 

The user shared how this particular interview with Cobain was one of their all-time favorites. “He seemed so genuine and real. I would’ve loved to sit down and have a real conversation with him,” the post read. According to a post shared by @kurtcobain_dailys, the interview was from 1993, where the singer recalled the phrase “Money can’t buy happiness” and explained his perspective on the theory. Cobain immediately agreed with the phrase when asked by an interviewer and added, “That probably brought me happiness for a while.” However, he went back down memory lane to share what really brought a smile to his face and filled his soul. 

“I look back to going to secondhand stores and stuff like that and finding a little treasure. That meant more to me,” he remarked. He recalled how, at the time, walking into the store, there was no clarity on what he could afford and what he couldn’t. There were times he didn’t even know what he wanted but when he stumbled upon something that spoke to his heart, it became special; it carried meaning. For the Nirvana guitarist, it holds way more profoundness than “having a thousand dollars and going into a store and buying the whole store.” “It’s not as special,” he remarked. 

Today, a lot of people argue that money can’t directly buy happiness but it has the power to give a life that brings joy. While this is true to some extent, there is a lot that can’t be fixed with purchases or just financial quality of life. A happiness report from sampling 1,000 U.S. adults shared by Fortune revealed that though the U.S. outperforms high-income countries, the well-being of its people is not on par. The levels of anxiety, depression, and similar conditions were reportedly worse for U.S. citizens as compared to 90% of other middle and high-income countries. An 87-year study from Harvard by Robert Waldinger, a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School, revealed that it’s not so much money but strong relationships and other factors that account for happiness in its truest sense. 

Sharing in a TED talk, the director of the Harvard study, Waldinger, revealed how insightful their ongoing study has been. They reviewed over 700 men for decades, in every walk of life. From the time they were teenagers, to now, as grandfathers, from the time they were studying until retirement. While initially many said they were chasing fame and money, as years went by, their priorities changed. For them, fame and wealth no longer looked like a source of joy. Waldinger said, “It turns out that people who are more socially connected to family, to friends, to community, are happier.” The bottom line is: It’s not the money. And many agreed. @ttotallytina said, “Love Kurt's response.” @stare._.777 added, “Relate to him f**kin bad.. RIP, beautiful soul.” 

If you are having thoughts about taking your own life, or know of anyone who is, please contact The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-SUICIDE (784-2433)

More on Scoop Upworthy

Kurt Cobain's daughter writes heartfelt letter 30 years after his passing: 'Gifted me a lesson'

Harvard's 85-year study reveals the key to happiness

Comedian Leslie Jones beautifully explains why you are always in control of your happiness