In August 1994, Nine Inch Nails was enjoying significant commercial success following the release of their influential album, "The Downward Spiral," which came out later that same year in March. This period marked a transformative phase for the band, as they transitioned from their earlier industrial rock roots to a more cinematic sound characterized by darker themes and complex production. The live performance at Woodstock '94, particularly the song "Closer," was pivotal in introducing their provocative style to a broader audience; the performance was notable not only for its intensity but also for the infamous display of chaos that ensued during the set. Trent Reznor's engagement with the audience and the edgy visuals foreshadowed the band's reputation for raw, electrifying performances, cementing their status in the alternative music scene.