Violet Grohl has delivered a captivating and intimate rendition of The Cure’s 1992 hit "High" for Triple J’s renowned "Like a Version" series, reimagining the iconic track with a sparse acoustic arrangement that highlights her vocal prowess. The performance, which eschews the original’s layered guitars for a stripped-down approach featuring only Grohl’s voice and an acoustic guitar, has quickly garnered attention for its heartfelt interpretation and showcases the emerging artist’s distinct musical sensibilities.
A Stripped-Down Homage to a Beloved Classic
Grohl’s take on "High," a standout from The Cure’s 1992 album Wish, transforms the upbeat, synth-infused original into a more introspective and emotionally resonant piece. She described the song as possessing "childlike joy" and a "cute love song" during her interview with Triple J. This personal connection to the material is evident in her performance, which emphasizes the lyrical tenderness and emotional core of the track.
The decision to strip down "High" to its acoustic essence allowed Grohl to imbue the song with a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion. The absence of the original’s prominent synth lines and guitar riffs places the focus squarely on her vocal delivery, allowing subtle nuances and emotional inflections to come to the forefront. This approach not only honors the original composition but also demonstrates Grohl’s ability to reinterpret familiar songs in a way that feels both respectful and uniquely her own.
Tracing a Lifelong Affection for The Cure
Grohl revealed that "High" has been a personal favorite for many years, with her deep appreciation for The Cure stemming from her early teenage years. She recounted how the infectious optimism of "Friday I’m in Love," another hit from Wish, was her gateway into exploring the band’s extensive catalog. This long-standing admiration for the British rock pioneers clearly informs her thoughtful interpretation of "High."
"I think it’s a perfect example of their sound during the early ’90s," Grohl stated, praising the band’s lyrical imagery. She aimed to capture a "teenage crush kind of feeling" in her rendition, expressing a hope that Robert Smith, The Cure’s enigmatic frontman, would approve of her efforts. This sentiment underscores the reverence she holds for the band and their enduring musical legacy.
Echoes of ’80s and ’90s Alt-Rock in Debut Album
The intimate, dreamy aesthetic of Grohl’s "Like a Version" performance aligns seamlessly with the sound of her debut album, Be Sweet to Me. Released on May 29 via Aurora and Republic Records, the album was meticulously crafted over 2024 and 2025, drawing significant inspiration from the alternative rock scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Grohl explicitly cites The Cure, Cocteau Twins, Pixies, Soundgarden, and The Breeders as key influences that shaped the sonic landscape of her first full-length project.
"There’s something so powerful about that period of music, from the messaging to the visuals," Grohl explained in a statement surrounding the album’s release. "It’s authentic and raw." This sentiment echoes through the meticulously produced tracks on Be Sweet to Me, offering a modern interpretation of the genre that defined a generation, infused with her own distinct artistic voice. The album’s exploration of themes and sonic textures reflects a deep understanding and appreciation for the era’s defining artists.
Building a Solo Career Amidst Rock Royalty
Violet Grohl, the eldest daughter of Foo Fighters frontman and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Dave Grohl, has been steadily carving out her own path in the music industry. Her familial connection to rock royalty is undeniable, with her father’s legendary status as both a member of Nirvana and the driving force behind Foo Fighters providing a unique backdrop to her burgeoning career. This heritage, however, has not overshadowed her individual artistic vision.
Grohl has contributed backing vocals to several Foo Fighters tracks, including "Show Me How," which charted on Billboard’s Hot Hard Rock Songs in 2023. She also performed at the band’s emotionally charged tribute concerts for late drummer Taylor Hawkins in 2022, showcasing her stage presence and musical capabilities on a grand scale. These experiences have provided invaluable exposure and a foundation for her solo endeavors.
Notable Collaborations and Television Debut
In 2021, Violet Grohl collaborated with her father on a cover of X’s "Nausea," a performance that was later broadcast on Jimmy Kimmel Live! alongside notable musicians Krist Novoselic, Dave Lombardo, and Greg Kurstin. While this appearance was as a guest alongside her father, it marked a significant step in her public musical journey. Her true television debut as a billed solo artist occurred in June when she performed her song "Bug in the Cake" with a full band on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, solidifying her status as an independent artist.
Charting a Course with Billboard Recognition
Violet Grohl achieved a significant career milestone earlier this year when her song "THUM" entered Billboard’s Adult Alternative Airplay chart at No. 38. This debut, while modest, represents a symbolic moment, especially given her father’s extensive chart history with Foo Fighters, who are tied with U2 for the most entries on the Alternative Airplay chart. Her presence on the charts signals her growing influence and recognition within the alternative music landscape.
Anticipated Festival Appearances and Touring Plans
Looking ahead, Grohl is slated to perform at a series of U.S. festivals throughout the fall, including prominent events such as Riot Fest, Shaky Knees, CBGB Festival, All Things Go D.C., and Corona Capital. These festival appearances will precede her own headlining U.S. tour and a supporting slot on Beabadoobee’s upcoming European dates. This robust touring schedule indicates a strong commitment to engaging with fans and expanding her reach across diverse musical platforms. Her "Like a Version" performance of "High" serves as a compelling preview of the artistry and musical depth audiences can expect from her live shows and future releases.
