Nirvana's version is defined by its raw, "honest" quality, characterized by several key technical elements:
: The closing solo, played by Cobain on guitar and Lori Goldston on cello , utilized a single-note riff that enhanced the song’s mystical, funeral-like atmosphere.
: Cobain famously bypassed the "acoustic only" spirit of the show by feeding his acoustic guitar through a fuzz box and a Fender Twin Reverb amp, giving the signature riff a distorted, eerie edge.
: Despite being the title track of Bowie's 1970 album, it was an unusual choice for a band like Nirvana, who were more often associated with punk and grunge influences.