Eddie Vedder, born Edward Louis Severson III on December 23, 1964, is an iconic American musician, singer-songwriter, and frontman of the legendary rock band Pearl Jam. Known for his distinctive baritone voice, introspective lyrics, and passionate performances, Vedder has left an indelible mark on the world of rock music.
Vedder rose to prominence in the early 1990s as the lead vocalist and lyricist of Pearl Jam, one of the most influential and commercially successful rock bands of the era. His emotionally charged performances and raw, confessional songwriting played a pivotal role in defining the grunge movement and shaping the sound of alternative rock.
Outside of Pearl Jam, Vedder has pursued a successful solo career, releasing several solo albums and contributing to various soundtracks and collaborations. His solo work showcases his versatility as a musician, incorporating elements of folk, rock, and Americana into his distinctive sound.
Beyond his musical contributions, Vedder is also known for his activism and philanthropy, advocating for causes such as environmental conservation, social justice, and veterans’ rights.
With his powerful voice, heartfelt lyrics, and unwavering commitment to his art and beliefs, Eddie Vedder continues to inspire generations of fans and remains a towering figure in the world of rock music.
1. “Guaranteed”
“Guaranteed” is a soul-stirring ballad by Eddie Vedder, featured on the soundtrack of the 2007 film “Into the Wild,” for which Vedder composed the entire soundtrack. The song serves as a poignant reflection on the themes of freedom, self-discovery, and the human spirit, echoing the sentiments of the film’s protagonist, Christopher McCandless.
Lyrically, “Guaranteed” explores the search for meaning and purpose in life, as well as the beauty and challenges of embarking on a journey of self-discovery. Vedder’s introspective lyrics convey a sense of introspection and longing, capturing the essence of McCandless’ quest for truth and enlightenment in the wilderness.
Musically, “Guaranteed” is characterized by its haunting melody, acoustic guitar accompaniment, and Vedder’s emotive vocals. The song’s stripped-down arrangement and intimate production create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing listeners into the emotional core of the song.
“Guaranteed” received widespread acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and evocative performance, earning Vedder a Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song and cementing its status as a standout track in his solo discography. The song’s timeless message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with audiences, serving as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of self-discovery and the human spirit.
2. “Society”
“Society” is a reflective folk-rock song by Eddie Vedder, featured on the soundtrack of the 2007 film “Into the Wild.” The song encapsulates the film’s themes of freedom, individualism, and disillusionment with societal norms.
Lyrically, “Society” serves as a critique of modern civilization and the pressures to conform to societal expectations. Vedder’s introspective lyrics question the values and priorities of contemporary society, urging listeners to break free from the constraints of materialism and embrace a simpler, more authentic way of life. The song’s evocative verses explore themes of alienation, longing for connection, and the search for meaning in a world driven by consumerism and conformity.
Musically, “Society” is characterized by its plaintive acoustic guitar melody, understated instrumentation, and Vedder’s emotive vocals. The song’s stripped-down arrangement and earnest delivery evoke a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing the poignant lyrics to take center stage.
” Society” has resonated deeply with audiences, earning praise for its thought-provoking lyrics and powerful message. It has become a fan favorite and a standout track in Vedder’s solo repertoire, serving as a poignant reminder to question societal norms and live authentically in pursuit of true happiness and fulfillment.
3. “Rise”
“Rise” is a song by American singer Katy Perry. Released in 2016, it was initially used as an anthem for NBC’s coverage of the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The song carries a powerful message of resilience, determination, and overcoming adversity. Its lyrics speak to the struggles individuals face in life and their ability to rise above challenges, setbacks, and obstacles. The chorus of the song features the uplifting refrain, “When, when the fire’s at my feet again, and the vultures all start circling, they’re whispering, ‘you’re out of time,’ but still I rise.”
“Rise” is characterized by its anthemic sound, soaring vocals, and inspirational lyrics. Katy Perry’s emotive delivery and the song’s dynamic production contribute to its motivational and empowering feel.
Though “Rise” was not initially included on any of Katy Perry’s studio albums, it received positive reviews from critics and achieved commercial success, reaching the top 10 in various countries’ music charts.
The song’s message of perseverance and resilience resonated with audiences, and its use as the theme for the Olympics underscored its universal appeal as an anthem of strength and determination.
4. “Hard Sun”
“Hard Sun” is a song written by Canadian singer-songwriter Gordon Peterson, who performed under the name Indio. It was originally released on his 1989 album “Big Harvest” but gained widespread recognition when it was covered by Eddie Vedder for the soundtrack of the film “Into the Wild” in 2007.
The song’s lyrics reflect themes of existentialism, nature, and the struggle for survival. The phrase “hard sun” refers to the relentless and unforgiving nature of the sun, symbolizing the harsh realities of life and the challenges one must face.
Eddie Vedder’s rendition of “Hard Sun” features his distinctive vocals and acoustic guitar, giving the song a raw and emotive quality. The arrangement is characterized by its folk-rock sound, with a driving rhythm and atmospheric instrumentation.
“Hard Sun” gained popularity through its inclusion in the soundtrack of “Into the Wild,” a film directed by Sean Penn, based on the true story of Christopher McCandless, a young man who abandoned his possessions and set out on a journey into the Alaskan wilderness. The song’s themes of solitude, self-discovery, and the power of nature resonate with the film’s narrative and emotional tone.
Vedder’s cover of “Hard Sun” received critical acclaim and introduced the song to a wider audience. It has since become one of the standout tracks on the “Into the Wild” soundtrack and a favorite among fans of Vedder’s solo work.
5. “Longing to Belong”
“Longing to Belong” is a heartfelt and introspective ballad by Eddie Vedder, released as a single in 2011 from his solo album “Ukulele Songs.” The song showcases Vedder’s emotive vocals and poetic lyricism, exploring themes of love, longing, and the universal desire for connection.
Lyrically, “Longing to Belong” delves into the emotional complexities of human relationships, expressing a deep yearning for intimacy and belonging. Vedder’s poignant lyrics capture the vulnerability and uncertainty of opening up to another person, as well as the joy and fulfillment that come from finding a true connection with someone special.
Musically, “Longing to Belong” is characterized by its gentle ukulele accompaniment, melodic guitar lines, and Vedder’s tender vocals. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation and intimate production create an atmosphere of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song.
“Longing to Belong” has been praised for its sincerity, beauty, and emotional resonance, earning acclaim from both fans and critics alike. It has become a fan favorite and a standout track in Vedder’s solo discography, showcasing his versatility as a musician and his ability to convey deep emotions through his music.
6. “Without You”
“Without You” is a song originally written and recorded by the British rock band Badfinger for their 1970 album “No Dice.” However, it gained widespread fame through cover versions by other artists, most notably Harry Nilsson and Mariah Carey.
Harry Nilsson’s rendition of “Without You” was released in 1971 as a single and became a massive hit, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. Nilsson’s emotive vocals and the song’s powerful melody helped it become one of his signature songs.
Mariah Carey also recorded a cover of “Without You” for her 1993 album “Music Box.” Her version was released as a single and also achieved great success, topping the charts in various countries and becoming one of Carey’s most successful and beloved songs.
“Without You” is a ballad that expresses the feelings of heartbreak and longing that accompany the end of a romantic relationship. The lyrics convey a sense of emptiness and despair at the prospect of being without the person one loves.
The song’s chorus, with its plaintive refrain of “I can’t live if living is without you,” captures the depth of emotion and longing expressed in the lyrics. Both Nilsson’s and Carey’s versions of “Without You” are characterized by their powerful vocal performances and emotional intensity, making them enduring classics in the realm of pop music.
7. “Far Behind”
“Far Behind” is a poignant and emotionally charged song by Eddie Vedder, released as part of his solo soundtrack for the 2007 film “Into the Wild.” The song captures the essence of the film’s protagonist, Christopher McCandless, as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery and exploration.
Lyrically, “Far Behind” reflects on themes of solitude, longing, and the search for meaning in life. Vedder’s introspective lyrics convey a sense of introspection and vulnerability, as he grapples with the complexities of existence and the fleeting nature of time. The song’s evocative verses paint a vivid picture of McCandless’ inner struggles and the challenges he faces while navigating the wilderness and his own emotions.
Musically, “Far Behind” is characterized by its haunting melody, acoustic guitar accompaniment, and Vedder’s soulful vocals. The song’s stripped-down arrangement and intimate production create a sense of intimacy and raw emotion, drawing listeners into the emotional journey of the protagonist.
“Far Behind” has been praised for its beauty, depth, and emotional resonance, earning acclaim from both fans and critics alike. It has become a fan favorite and a standout track in Vedder’s solo repertoire, serving as a poignant reminder of the human spirit’s resilience and the transformative power of self-discovery.
8. “Better Man”
“Better Man” is a song by American rock band Pearl Jam, released in 1994 as the third single from their third studio album, “Vitalogy.” The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist Eddie Vedder.
“Better Man” is a mid-tempo rock ballad that explores themes of regret, disillusionment, and the complexities of relationships. The lyrics tell the story of a woman trapped in an unhappy and abusive relationship with a man whom she wishes would change for the better. The narrator reflects on the emotional toll of staying with someone who is not good for her, yet she cannot bring herself to leave.
The song’s chorus, with its repeated refrain of “She lies and says she’s in love with him, can’t find a better man,” captures the resignation and sense of powerlessness felt by the woman in the relationship. Vedder’s emotive vocal delivery, combined with the band’s melodic instrumentation and dynamic shifts, adds to the song’s emotional depth and impact.
“Better Man” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. It received critical acclaim and became one of Pearl Jam’s most popular and enduring songs. The song’s raw honesty and emotional resonance have resonated with audiences, making it a staple of the band’s live performances and a fan favorite.
9. “Setting Forth”
“Setting Forth” is a soul-stirring folk-rock song by Eddie Vedder, featured on the soundtrack of the 2007 film “Into the Wild,” for which Vedder composed the entire soundtrack. The song serves as a poignant reflection on the themes of freedom, adventure, and the pursuit of self-discovery.
Lyrically, “Setting Forth” explores the protagonist’s journey of leaving behind the comforts of civilization to seek a life of adventure and exploration in the wilderness. Vedder’s introspective lyrics convey a sense of anticipation and excitement, as well as the uncertainty and challenges that lie ahead on the path less traveled. The song’s evocative verses capture the protagonist’s yearning for freedom and the open road, as well as the bittersweet emotions of leaving loved ones behind.
Musically, “Setting Forth” is characterized by its melodic acoustic guitar riff, gentle percussion, and Vedder’s emotive vocals. The song’s stripped-down arrangement and intimate production create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, drawing listeners into the emotional landscape of the song.
“Setting Forth” has been praised for its beauty, sincerity, and emotional resonance, earning acclaim from both fans and critics alike. It has become a standout track in Vedder’s solo repertoire, serving as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of following one’s dreams and embracing life’s adventures.
10. “Sleeping by Myself”
“Sleeping by Myself” is a song by American rock band Pearl Jam, originally written and recorded by the band’s lead vocalist Eddie Vedder for his solo album “Ukulele Songs” in 2011. The song was later re-recorded by Pearl Jam and included on their tenth studio album, “Lightning Bolt,” released in 2013.
“Sleeping by Myself” is a poignant and introspective ballad that explores themes of loneliness, solitude, and longing for companionship. The lyrics depict a narrator who finds themselves alone and struggling to cope with the absence of their loved one. Despite the efforts to fill the void, they ultimately realize that they are unable to escape the feeling of emptiness when they’re sleeping by themselves.
The song’s gentle melody and sparse instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar and subtle percussion, create an intimate and melancholic atmosphere that complements the emotional weight of the lyrics. Eddie Vedder’s soulful vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and yearning, adding to the song’s emotional depth.
“Sleeping by Myself” showcases Pearl Jam’s ability to deliver emotionally resonant and introspective music, even in a stripped-down acoustic setting. The song has been praised for its heartfelt lyrics and haunting melody, and it has become a fan favorite among Pearl Jam’s catalog.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
