Cobain’s outsider lyrics were often vague and open to interpretation (and much debate), but All Apologies features some of Kurt’s more lucid moments, and seems every bit as guilt-laden on Unplugged as the original.
Originally the final song on In Utero, the song features what is perhaps Kurt’s most intricate guitar line during the Unplugged performance. The main riff is played by Kurt in the intro, then Pat Smear takes over for the verses, allowing Kurt to play a simplified rhythm part while he sings.
During the outro, however, Kurt doubles with Pat Smear while singing the line “All in all is all we are” as Lori Goldston’s cello, the two guitars, bass and drums drop out gradually until all we’re left with is Cobain and Grohl’s harmonised vocals.
Listened to in context with Cobain’s untimely death, it’s a hair-raising performance that becomes more powerful with every viewing. So powerful, it almost tops our countdown.