Today’s video of the day is Nine Inch Nails – "Gave Up" released in 1992.
“Gave Up” by Nine Inch Nails explodes with raw energy and unfiltered rage. Released in 1992 on the Broken EP, the track marked a dramatic shift from the synth-heavy grooves of Pretty Hate Machine. This time, frontman Trent Reznor went louder, faster, and darker. Filmed at 10050 Cielo Drive—once the site of the Manson family murders—the performance video captures a visceral moment. Directed by Jon Reiss, it features Reznor with Chris Vrenna on drums, Richard Patrick on guitar, and a guest appearance by Marilyn Manson. Brian Liesegang joins on keyboards. The band re-recorded the song live for the video at Le Pig, Reznor’s home studio located in the same infamous house.
“Gave Up” hits hard with distorted guitars, a Mellotron once owned by John Lennon, and robotic vocal effects. Lyrically, it dives deep into isolation, anger, and self-loathing. The line “I hate myself for what I’ve become” became an anthem for the disaffected. It also reinforced Reznor’s role as the voice of industrial despair. Nine Inch Nails formed in 1988 in Cleveland. After gaining attention with Pretty Hate Machine, Reznor wanted more control. He left behind synth-pop leanings for the harsh, abrasive sound of Broken. “Gave Up” became a fan favorite in live shows, known for its intensity and emotional weight.
Another video for the song exists. It closes The Broken Movie, a graphic short film unofficially tied to the Broken EP. That version uses the original studio recording. “Gave Up” bridges the sonic gap between Pretty Hate Machine and 1994’s The Downward Spiral. Its rage, noise, and nihilism laid the groundwork for future classics like “March of the Pigs” and “Hurt.” Both visually and musically, “Gave Up” marks a defining moment in the Nine Inch Nails timeline. It’s loud, it’s violent, and it doesn’t apologize.
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