Sub Pop Records

The Seattle independent label that released Nirvana's first single and debut album.

Nirvana released their first single, a cover of Shocking Blue's "Love Buzz," in November 1988 on the Seattle independent record label Sub Pop. The band began recording their debut album, Bleach, with local producer Jack Endino for this label; the $606.17 listed on the sleeve was supplied by Jason Everman. Prior to the album's release, Nirvana became the first band to sign an extended contract with Sub Pop. Released in June 1989, Bleach had initial sales of 40,000 copies and became a favorite of college radio stations. Although Sub Pop did not promote Bleach as much as other releases, it was a steady seller, though Cobain expressed frustration over the label's lack of promotion and distribution.

Quick Facts

Key release: Bleach Album
Location: Seattle, Washington

Reader's Guide

Sub Pop Records provided the platform for Nirvana's earliest releases, starting with the November 1988 single "Love Buzz". The label supported the recording of Bleach in late 1988, funded by $606.17 from Jason Everman. This partnership marked a significant milestone when Nirvana became the first band to sign an extended contract with Sub Pop before Bleach's June 1989 release. While the album generated 40,000 initial sales and strong college radio play, the label's lack of aggressive promotion frustrated Kurt Cobain. By late 1989, these limitations in distribution and marketing pushed the band to seek a deal with a major record label, as no indie label could buy them out of their existing contract.