Who Is Krist Novoselic? Age, Biography, and Wiki
Born on May 16, 1965, Krist Novoselic is a celebrated American musician known primarily for his role as the bassist of the iconic rock band Nirvana. With his powerful presence in the music scene during the '90s, Krist has become a significant figure in rock history. As of 2025, he is 60 years old. His early years in Compton, California, laid the groundwork for his musical journey, which eventually led to Nirvana's groundbreaking success.
Occupation | Accordionist |
---|---|
Date of Birth | May 16, 1965 |
Age | 60 Years |
Birth Place | Compton, California, U.S. |
Horoscope | Taurus |
Country | U.S |
Popularity
Krist Novoselic's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Krist Novoselic stands tall at approximately 6 feet 7 inches (200 cm) and has a weight of around 230 lbs (104 kg). His towering height and unique physical presence have made him a recognizable figure in the music industry. As for body measurements, Krist embraces a laid-back rock star persona, often seen in casual attire that complements his rugged style.
At the 1992 MTV Video Music Awards, Nirvana would win awards for Best New Artist in a Video and Best Alternative Video for "Smells Like Teen Spirit." At the show, Nirvana performed "Lithium". When Novoselic started playing the opening bass riff, he signaled that he could not hear his bass.
Instead of continuing to play, Novoselic threw his bass guitar in the air, to perform a "Bass Toss." He failed to catch it, later stating that he misjudged the height; he further stated that he "faked like he was knocked out." Musician Brian May ran to give him medical attention; he did not suffer any injuries.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Regarding his personal life, Krist Novoselic has been quite private. As of 2025, he is reportedly in a committed relationship but prefers to keep the details of his dating life out of the public eye. He has previously been married to Shelli Dilley, but the couple has since divorced. Krist remains focused on his career and personal passions, balancing his professional life with a fulfilling personal life.
Kristo was a native of Veli Iž on the island of Iž while Marija originates from Privlaka. The original Croatian surname of Novaselić was mistakenly changed to Novoselic by a clerk when Kristo was applying for a passport to go to America.
Novoselic lived in Compton for one year before his parents moved to the ethnically Croatian Los Angeles neighborhood of San Pedro. His first language is Croatian. He has a younger brother, Robert (born 1968), and a younger sister, Diana (born 1973). In 1979, his family relocated to Aberdeen, Washington.
In 1980, his parents sent him to live with relatives in Zadar, Croatia, Yugoslavia. He returned to Aberdeen in 1981. His earliest memory of listening to music is listening to Chuck Berry with his father. Growing up, he had a severe underbite, for which he underwent corrective surgery.
Net Worth and Salary
As of 2025, Krist Novoselic's net worth is estimated to be around $50 million. His wealth stems from various sources, including his successful music career, songwriting royalties, and public appearances. Additionally, Novoselic has diversified his earnings through business ventures and investments in various industries.
Nirvana ended abruptly in April 1994 following Cobain's death. For most of the rest of that year, Novoselic retreated from the spotlight. One of a few public appearances came that September at the MTV Video Music Awards, where the video for Nirvana's "Heart-Shaped Box" was awarded Best Alternative Video. Novoselic took the opportunity to pay tribute to Cobain.
Career, Business, and Investments
After Nirvana's disbandment following Kurt Cobain's tragic death in 1994, Krist Novoselic pursued various musical projects, including joining bands such as Sweet 75 and the Eyes Adrift. He has also embraced a career in politics, actively participating in advocacy and community initiatives. His entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his investments in tech companies, where he seeks to merge his love for music with innovation. Krist is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, supporting causes that align with his values.
Following the end of Eyes Adrift, Novoselic announced that he was quitting the music business, noting that he disliked the process of building up publicity for new records. However, in 2005, Novoselic had occasionally worked on music for a possible solo album, noting, "Right now, I'm just doing it for myself, and that's what it's all about."
Social Network
Krist Novoselic maintains a significant presence on social media platforms. He is active on Twitter and Instagram, where he shares insights about his music, personal life, and political opinions. His social media engagement allows fans to connect with him on a more personal level, making him not only a rock icon but also a relatable figure to many.
In the spring of 1991, the band entered Sound City Studios in Los Angeles to record Nevermind. Novoselic helped write the song "Polly". Upon its release, Nevermind (1991) exceeded all expectations and became a worldwide commercial success. Nevermind had launched the band as a worldwide phenomenon with their hit single "Smells Like Teen Spirit".
Education
Krist Novoselic is a well-educated individual. He attended Washington State University, where he initially pursued a degree in political science. Although his musical career took precedence, his academic background has influenced his political engagement and advocacy efforts. His education continues to be an integral part of his identity, enriching his contributions both in and out of the music industry.
Novoselic's brother Robert introduced him to his friend Kurt Cobain, who had noticed loud music coming from upstairs in the Novoselic household. Robert told Cobain that it was his older brother, who listened to punk rock.
Cobain eventually befriended the older Novoselic, as the pair had similar musical tastes, including a fondness for local band Melvins. The two had several mutual friends and began hanging out shortly thereafter. Krist attended Aberdeen High School while Kurt attended high school in nearby Montesano.
At one point, Cobain gave Novoselic a demo tape of his former band Fecal Matter, and asked him to form a band together. After several months, Novoselic finally listened to the tape, liked it, and agreed to start a band with Cobain. After high school, Novoselic worked as a painter and decorator but was eventually laid off.