Pearl Jam is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington in 1990. The band’s original lineup consisted of vocalist Eddie Vedder, guitarists Mike McCready and Stone Gossard, bassist Jeff Ament, and drummer Dave Krusen. The band’s sound is characterized by its grunge-influenced, heavy guitar riffs, and Vedder’s emotionally charged vocals.
Pearl Jam rose to fame in the early 1990s with the release of their debut album, “Ten,” which featured hits such as “Jeremy” and “Alive.” They have since released several successful albums, including “Vs.,” “Vitalogy,” and “Yield,” and have sold over 85 million records worldwide.
In addition to their music, Pearl Jam is also known for their social activism and their commitment to environmental causes. They have used their platform to raise awareness and funds for various causes, including homelessness, voting rights, and climate change.
Pearl Jam’s influence on rock music and culture is significant, and their music has been an inspiration to countless artists. They have won several awards, including five MTV Video Music Awards and a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance.
Despite several lineup changes over the years, Pearl Jam continues to create music and tour to this day, and their legacy as one of the most iconic rock bands of all time continues to grow.
1. Corduroy (Vitalogy, 1994)
With its pulsating drum beats and powerful guitar riffs, Corduroy is undeniably one of Pearl Jam's best works from their 1994 album Vitalogy. Eddie Vedder's passionate delivery of the lyrics adds another layer of excitement to the already charged-up track. The song takes on a rebellious nature, calling for listeners to question authority and break free from conformity.
As the first single from their third studio album, Corduroy holds a special place in Pearl Jam's catalog. The song showcases the band's raw energy and punk-inspired sound that helped define their early career. It also features Stone Gossard's distinctive guitar work, which effortlessly weaves through the driving rhythm section.
Listeners will appreciate Corduroy for its excellent instrumentals and thought-provoking lyrics that urge people to rethink societal norms. Its catchy refrain of "the waiting drove me mad" will stay with you long after you've finished listening.
Interestingly, guitarist Mike McCready first came up with the riff during a jam session in Seattle while he was waiting for Eddie Vedder to arrive at a studio session. The rest of the band liked it so much they started playing along, and before they knew it, they had created one of their most significant hits.
(Source: Rolling Stone)
She may be elderly, but this woman knows how to rock harder than a teenager at a Pearl Jam concert.
2. Elderly Woman Behind The Counter In A Small Town (Vs., 1993)
This Pearl Jam classic from their second studio album talks about an elderly lady behind a counter in a small town. The song uses rich metaphors and allusions, painting a vivid image of rural life in America. The lyrics address the loneliness and quiet desperation faced by those who never left their small towns. The guitar riffs and drums create a nostalgic tone in the background, while Eddie Vedder's raspy vocals sing of longing and empathy for the aging woman.
The song is known for its heartfelt storytelling, with Vedder's words conveying intense sentiments about life in remote communities. He takes us on a journey through different parts of this old lady's day, describing how she opens up her store in the morning, serves coffee, sweeps the floor and waits for customers to come in. The narrative flows beautifully, as if we're getting to know this lady personally.
One of the most emotionally charged moments comes when he speaks of her brief moment of joy at seeing her lost love from years ago pass by on the street outside. In just one lyric "lost nine friends we'll never know two years ago today", Vedder acknowledges both her loss and hers alone as well as that shared by many rural Americans likely referencing 9/11 attacks which happened two years prior to Vs release. The warm reception towards this song demonstrates the heart-touching effect it has on people worldwide after so many years since its initial release decades ago – undoubtedly deserving its spot among Pearl Jam's greatest tracks ever made.
Even if you're feeling down, 'Even Flow' will lift you up with its infectious riff and Eddie Vedder's soulful wail.
3. Even Flow (Ten, 1991)
This Pearl Jam classic from their debut album 'Ten' showcases Eddie Vedder's dynamic vocals over a driving guitar riff and thunderous drums. With lyrics describing the struggles of a homeless man, 'Even Flow' remains not only one of the band's most popular songs but also a socially conscious anthem. The song's middle section features some impressive guitar work from Mike McCready, providing a memorable solo and adding to its iconic status.
Interestingly, the song was originally titled 'The Mamasan Trilogy: Part 1', referring to the three-part story told in the lyrics. However, it was changed after realizing that it would be difficult for fans and radio DJs to remember such a lengthy title.
It's no surprise that this song has remained an essential part of Pearl Jam's live performances throughout their career. Its energy and powerful message continue to resonate with fans around the world.
Rearviewmirror makes you feel like you're in a car chase with Eddie Vedder screaming in the back seat.
4. Rearviewmirror (Vs., 1993)
This song is a fan favorite and one of Pearl Jam's best songs of all time. Hailing from their second album, Vs., "Rearviewmirror" takes us on a journey with its powerful lyrics that deal with leaving the past behind and moving forward. The haunting melody that accompanies Eddie Vedder's raw vocals creates an intense listening experience that sticks with you long after the song ends.
The guitar riffs are unforgettable, adding to the overall mood of the track. The song showcases Pearl Jam's ability to balance emotional depth with catchy music. As one of their most popular songs, it continues to be played live and loved by fans around the world.
Interestingly, "Rearviewmirror" was originally going to be called "Exits," but this was changed as Eddie Vedder felt the new name had more power behind it. Vince Mendoza conducted the strings for this track, adding another layer of emotionality to this already powerful song.
"Better Man" proves that even at their most heartbreaking, Pearl Jam still rocks harder than your ex's new rebound.
5. Better Man (Vitalogy, 1994)
Pearl Jam's masterpiece 'Better Man' from their 1994 album 'Vitalogy' stands out as one of the band's most iconic tunes. With emotionally wrought lyrics and catchy guitar riffs, this song is a testament to Pearl Jam's ability to craft timeless music that speaks to audiences across generations. Taking cues from classic rock and grunge elements, 'Better Man' delivers a powerful message about the pain of heartbreak and the need for resilience.
Eddie Vedder's haunting vocals accompanied by Stone Gossard's steady guitar work makes for an unforgettable listening experience.
The track is known for its poignant lyrics which narrate a woman's relationship with an abusive lover, calling out the societal constructs that keep her trapped in a toxic cycle. The chorus drives home the emotional wallop with its sing-along melody that stirs up feelings of hopelessness, desperation, and ultimately empowerment. It's no surprise that this song has become an anthem for survivors of domestic abuse, offering comfort and validation to those who have lived through similar experiences.
Despite being over two decades old, 'Better Man' still resonates with listeners today as much as it did when it was first released. Its themes of love and loss are universal and relatable, ensuring its place in Pearl Jam's hall of fame classics.
Pro Tip: Listen to this gem on high volume with good quality headphones or speakers to appreciate its nuances fully.
'State Of Love And Trust' proves that even a movie soundtrack can't hold Pearl Jam back from making a killer song.
6. State Of Love And Trust (Singles: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, 1992)
This track can be found in 'Singles: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack' released in 1992. 'State Of Love And Trust' is often considered as one of Pearl Jam's most powerful rock songs. The lyrics display heavy emotions and convey a strong message about individuals' inner struggles. This song was also praised for its raw guitar riffs and intense vocals that captured the essence of grunge music.
Moreover, the song gained immense popularity after featuring prominently in Cameron Crowe's romantic comedy-drama "Singles." This movie was based on the Seattle music scene, which was thriving in the early '90s.
One unique aspect of this song is its captivating drum rhythm, which brings out an unrelenting yet well-structured sound. The bridge of the song also adds to its uniqueness by introducing a slower tempo before gradually picking up again with an explosive preceding chorus.
Pro Tip: To gain an enhanced experience, try listening to this song at full volume on high-quality headphones or speakers.
Jeremy's story may be tragic, but at least he inspired one of Pearl Jam's best songs.
7. Jeremy (Ten, 1991)
This track arises as the seventh song in Pearl Jam's album 'Ten' of 1991. Jeremy, by its lyrics, portrays a tale of bullying in high schools and the adverse consequences it provokes. Eddie Vedder, the lead vocalist/guitarist, narrates the story of a kid who shoots himself in front of his classmates after being humiliated by them. It is one of the band's most significant hits and has helped structure Pearl Jam's popularity profoundly.
The song showcases an overall tone that reflects Vedder's frustration and despair towards society's ignorance towards destructive practices at educational institutions. The up-tempo beats with few chord changes along with catchy drum riffs integrate well with its melancholic mood. Guitarist Mike McCready provides a short but iconic solo during the bridge that accentuates Jeremy’s rebellious wailing. Its music video directed by Mark Pellington illustrates this situation from an artful standpoint.
Listening to this piece is ideal for people struggling within themselves or require an alert to take responsibility for actions performed every day. A source of inspiration for many musicians later on is undeniably worth any avid listener’s attention.
Yellow Ledbetter: the perfect song to play when you're feeling nostalgic for a time you weren't even alive for.
8. Yellow Ledbetter (Jeremy B-Side, 1991 / Lost Dogs, 2003)
This melodic masterpiece, originally released as a B-side of "Jeremy" in 1991 but later included on Lost Dogs compilation album in 2003, holds a timeless appeal. The complex layers of guitar picking and the emotional vocals from lead singer Eddie Vedder create an unforgettable sound that has resonated with fans for decades.
"Yellow Ledbetter" is known for its enigmatic lyrics, making it open to interpretation by listeners. Despite never having an official music video or being released as a single, the track remains one of Pearl Jam's most beloved songs. Its popularity is evident from the band's frequent performances of this song at concerts where audiences are sure to sing along.
Fans have speculated that the title's inspiration comes from a family tragedy that happened before Vedder joined Pearl Jam, involving his brother who died in childhood and whose favorite color was yellow. This adds another layer of sentimentality to the already powerful lyrics of "Yellow Ledbetter."
Alive is like a fine wine, it gets better with age, and by age, I mean listening to it on repeat for hours.
9. Alive (Ten, 1991)
This hit song from Ten (1991) showcases Pearl Jam's iconic sound.
Most known for its catchy chorus and explosive guitar riffs, "Alive" tells the story of a man discovering his biological father is actually alive after believing he had passed away. The emotional lyrics and powerful instrumentation make it a standout track in their discography.
Furthermore, Eddie Vedder's soulful vocals add depth and raw emotion to the already impactful lyrics. The band's performance on this track solidified their reputation as one of the greatest rock bands of all time.
Interestingly, the song was originally written by guitarist Stone Gossard about his own personal struggles with existential angst. However, when Vedder added his own lyrics and vocal style to the composition, it transformed into a timeless anthem.
Black is like that ex you keep going back to, even though it always ends in heartbreak, but damn does it feel good while it lasts.
10. Black (Ten, 1991)
This Pearl Jam classic from the 1991 album Ten is a fan favorite and one of their most recognizable tracks. '10. Black (Ten, 1991)' showcases the raw emotion and immense vocal range of lead singer Eddie Vedder.
| '10. Black (Ten, 1991)' | |
|---|---|
| Year Released | 1991 |
| Album | Ten |
| Lead Singer | Eddie Vedder |
| Genre | Grunge Rock |
While 'Black' was never released as a single, it remains one of the band's most popular songs. The intense lyrics tell the story of heartbreak and loss in a way that resonates with listeners.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the beauty of 'Black', listen to it with headphones on to get lost in Vedder's powerful vocals and the intricate instrumentation.
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.
