Eddie Vedder, the iconic frontman of Pearl Jam, is renowned for his powerful vocals and emotive songwriting. While Pearl Jam remains his primary creative outlet, Vedder has also cultivated an impressive discography outside the band. Unlike some of his Pearl Jam bandmates who have numerous side projects, Vedder’s solo endeavors are more selective, making each release and collaboration even more significant. This article delves into some of the most compelling Eddie Vedder Songs from his solo albums, soundtracks, collaborations, and one-off singles, showcasing the breadth of his musical talent and influences.
28. “Matter Of Time” from the ‘Matter of Time’ EP (2020)
During the pandemic-stricken year of 2020, Pearl Jam’s ‘Gigaton’ tour was unfortunately put on hold. However, Eddie Vedder channeled his creativity into home recordings, culminating in the ‘Matter of Time’ EP. The title track, “Matter Of Time,” stands out as a poignant piano ballad, highlighting Vedder’s ability to convey raw emotion through a stripped-down arrangement. This song offered fans a timely and intimate glimpse into Vedder’s artistry during a period of global uncertainty. The simplicity of the piano and his vocal delivery create a truly moving experience.
27. Elton John and Eddie Vedder – ‘E-Ticket’
“E-Ticket” is another gem born from the pandemic era, a dynamic collaboration between Elton John and Eddie Vedder. Co-written with producer Andrew Watt, who went on to produce Vedder’s solo album ‘Earthling’ and is slated to work on the next Pearl Jam record, this track sees Elton John revisiting his early rock and roll roots. While Elton’s ‘The Lockdown Sessions’ album featured collaborations with pop heavyweights, “E-Ticket” is a raw, energetic rock track where Vedder’s distinctive vocals blend seamlessly with Elton’s classic piano-driven style. It’s a powerful reminder of both artists’ rock sensibilities.
26. Supersuckers with Eddie Vedder – “Poor Girl” from ‘Free The West Memphis Three’ (2000)
Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam have long been advocates for the legendary Los Angeles punk band X. For the benefit album ‘Free The West Memphis Three,’ Vedder joined forces with the Supersuckers to cover X’s “Poor Girl.” This collaboration served a dual purpose: paying homage to a musical influence and supporting a crucial cause. The album raised funds for the legal defense of the “West Memphis Three,” three teenagers wrongly convicted of murder. Vedder’s involvement amplified awareness of the case, contributing to their eventual release. The raw energy of the Supersuckers combined with Vedder’s vocals gives a powerful punk edge to this cover.
25. Neil Finn – “Stuff and Nonsense (live)” from ‘7 Worlds Collide’ (2001)
Vedder’s appreciation for New Zealand’s musical talent is evident in his support for Crowded House and Split Enz, bands fronted by the Finn brothers, Tim and Neil. During a Pearl Jam hiatus, Eddie Vedder joined Neil Finn’s touring band, an ensemble that also included Johnny Marr of The Smiths and Ed O’Brien of Radiohead. In this live rendition of Split Enz’s “Stuff and Nonsense,” Vedder takes the lead vocals, delivering a passionate performance while Neil Finn provides piano accompaniment and backing vocals. This collaboration showcases Vedder’s versatility and his respect for artists who have inspired him.
24. Eddie Vedder – “All The Way” (single-only release, 2008)
Pearl Jam’s early association with basketball, even adopting the name Mookie Blaylock, is well-known. However, Eddie Vedder’s passion for baseball, particularly his beloved Chicago Cubs, is equally profound. “All The Way” is a heartfelt tribute to the Cubs and their long-suffering fans. Released in 2008, the centennial anniversary of the Cubs’ last World Series title, the song became an anthem of hope. Eight years later, in 2016, the Cubs finally broke the curse and won the World Series, making “All The Way” even more resonant and iconic for Cubs fans. This song perfectly captures the emotional rollercoaster of sports fandom.
23. Neil Young – “Peace and Love” from ‘Mirror Ball’ (1995)
“Peace and Love” is remarkably close to being a Pearl Jam song, as Stone Gossard, Jeff Ament, Mike McCready, and then-new drummer Jack Irons backed Neil Young on the entire ‘Mirror Ball’ album. This track is a duet between Young and Vedder, a highlight of the album that left fans yearning for a Neil Young and Pearl Jam tour. Vedder’s vocal harmonies complement Young’s distinctive voice, creating a powerful and harmonious blend. This collaboration solidified the connection between Pearl Jam and their musical heroes.
22. Eddie Vedder – “Setting Forth” from ‘Into The Wild’ (2007)
‘Into The Wild’ marked Eddie Vedder’s debut solo album, serving as the soundtrack to Sean Penn’s film of the same name. “Setting Forth,” a brief instrumental piece under two minutes, effectively sets the tone for both the album and the film. It evokes a sense of journey and introspection, mirroring the protagonist’s venture into the Alaskan wilderness. This track showcases Vedder’s ability to create atmosphere and emotion through minimalist compositions, hinting at the deeper musical explorations within the soundtrack.
21. Eddie Vedder – “My City Of Ruins (live)”
Eddie Vedder has frequently expressed his admiration for Bruce Springsteen, and this live performance of “My City Of Ruins” is a heartfelt tribute to The Boss. Recorded at the Kennedy Center Honors, with Springsteen and President Obama in the audience, Vedder’s rendition is both respectful and uniquely his own. He brings a raw intensity to the song, honoring Springsteen’s legacy while imbuing it with his signature vocal style. This performance underscores Vedder’s deep appreciation for songwriters who explore themes of resilience and community.
20. Eddie Vedder and Zeke – “I Believe In Miracles” from ‘We’re A Happy Family: A Tribute To Ramones’ (2003)
A devoted Ramones fan, Eddie Vedder even joined them onstage for their final concert and later inducted them into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. For the Ramones tribute album ‘We’re A Happy Family,’ produced by Rob Zombie, Vedder teamed up with Seattle hardcore band Zeke. While they recorded “Daytime Dilemma” as well, “I Believe In Miracles” is the standout track. Zeke’s high-energy punk sound combined with Vedder’s vocals creates a powerful and fitting tribute to the Ramones’ iconic punk rock energy. It almost sounds tailor-made for Vedder’s vocal style.
19. Eddie Vedder – “Sleeping By Myself” from ‘Ukulele Songs’ (2011)
‘Ukulele Songs’, Eddie Vedder’s second solo album, is a deep dive into his love for the ukulele. “Sleeping By Myself” showcases the instrument’s versatility in conveying profound sadness. The lyrics are intensely personal and introspective, exploring themes of loneliness and heartbreak. Vedder’s decision to keep such vulnerable songs for a solo project underscores their intimate nature. The raw emotion in his voice, accompanied by the delicate ukulele, creates a deeply moving and personal listening experience.
18. Pete Townshend and Eddie Vedder – “Heart To Hang Onto” from ‘A Benefit For Maryville Academy’ (1999)
“Heart To Hang Onto” originally appeared on ‘Rough Mix,’ a collaborative album by Pete Townshend and Ronnie Lane of Faces. In this live performance for ‘A Benefit For Maryville Academy,’ Eddie Vedder joined his idol, Pete Townshend, for a stripped-down rendition. Townshend, accompanied only by a keyboard player, shares vocal lines with Vedder, who takes on Townshend’s original parts. This reimagining of an underrated classic highlights the mutual respect and musical connection between these rock icons.
17. Eddie Vedder – “Rise” from ‘Into The Wild’ (2007)
“Rise” from ‘Into The Wild’ serves as a precursor to ‘Ukulele Songs,’ demonstrating how much Vedder can achieve with just his voice and a ukulele. This track echoes the minimalist approach he previously explored with Pearl Jam’s “Soon Forget,” which was essentially a solo Vedder piece. “Rise” is a testament to Vedder’s ability to create compelling music with sparse instrumentation, focusing on vocal melody and lyrical content.
16. Tom Morello with Bruce Springsteen and Eddie Vedder – “Highway To Hell’ from ‘The Atlas Underground Fire’ (2021)
Tom Morello, who toured with Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, brought the idea of covering unusual songs to Springsteen, including Van Halen’s “Jump” and AC/DC’s “Highway To Hell.” After jamming on “Highway To Hell” live in Australia with Eddie Vedder, Morello brought Vedder and Springsteen together for a studio version for his ‘The Atlas Underground Fire’ album. This high-energy rendition is a rare treat, showcasing Vedder singing a classic hard rock anthem with gusto. It’s a fun and unexpected collaboration between rock legends.
15. The Who with Eddie Vedder – “I’m One (live)” from ‘Live At The Royal Albert Hall’ (2003)
Eddie Vedder’s admiration for The Who is well-documented. In this live performance from ‘Live At The Royal Albert Hall,’ Vedder joins his favorite band onstage for “I’m One,” a classic track from ‘Quadrophenia,’ originally sung by Pete Townshend. Vedder’s passionate delivery demonstrates a deep connection to the song, which he also performed at his Ohana Festival shows in 2021. This collaboration is a powerful moment for Vedder fans and Who enthusiasts alike.
14. Eddie Vedder – “Longing To Belong” from ‘Ukulele Songs’ (2011)
‘Ukulele Songs’ explores a range of emotions. While “Sleeping By Myself” delves into the pain of a relationship’s end, “Longing To Belong” celebrates the joy of new love. The lyrics are tender and romantic, expressing a deep sense of connection and vulnerability. “I dream of circles, perfect eyes within your face/My heart’s an open wound that only you’d replace,” Vedder sings, revealing a softer side to his songwriting. This track showcases the emotional depth and range of ‘Ukulele Songs’.
13. Eddie Vedder – “Far Behind” from ‘Into The Wild’ (2007)
“Why contain yourself/Like any other book on the shelf?” Vedder questions in “Far Behind,” a song that narrates the protagonist’s decision to embark on his journey into the wilderness in ‘Into The Wild’. The lyrics resonate with themes of freedom, escape, and self-discovery. The song captures the spirit of the film, encouraging listeners to break free from societal constraints and pursue their own paths. Vedder’s delivery is both reflective and empowering.
12. Eddie Vedder – “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” from ‘I Am Sam’ (2002)
The ‘I Am Sam’ soundtrack is entirely composed of Beatles covers. Due to rights issues, the original Beatles recordings couldn’t be used, necessitating new versions tailored to fit the film’s scenes. Despite these constraints, Eddie Vedder’s cover of “You’ve Got To Hide Your Love Away” from ‘Help!’ is exceptional. He adds his personal touch by replacing the flute solo with his harmonica, creating a raw and soulful rendition that stands out within the soundtrack.
11. Eddie Vedder and Chris Martin – “Don’t Dream It’s Over (live)” from the Global Citizen Festival (2016)
This live collaboration between Eddie Vedder and Coldplay’s Chris Martin at the 2016 Global Citizen Festival, though not officially released, is available on YouTube and is a must-hear. The frontmen performed a three-song set as a duo, and their rendition of Crowded House’s “Don’t Dream It’s Over” was a highlight. Their voices harmonize beautifully, creating a moving and memorable performance of this classic song.
10. Eddie Vedder – “Hard Sun” from ‘Into The Wild’ (2007)
One of Eddie Vedder’s most popular solo songs, “Hard Sun” is actually a cover of a track by Indio, who released only one album, ‘Big Harvest,’ in 1989. Despite a lawsuit from the song’s writer, which was dismissed, Vedder’s version has become iconic. “Hard Sun” is a staple of Vedder’s solo concerts, known for its anthemic quality and uplifting message. Vedder’s powerful vocals transform the song into a stadium-ready singalong.
9. Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan with Eddie Vedder – “The Face Of Love” from ‘Dead Man Walking’ (1995)
“The Face Of Love” is one of two songs resulting from the unlikely yet inspired pairing of Eddie Vedder and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan for the ‘Dead Man Walking’ soundtrack. The other track was a version of Pearl Jam’s “Long Road.” Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan, a Pakistani vocalist renowned for his qawwali music, brought a spiritual depth to the collaboration. “The Face Of Love” is a powerful and moving track, highlighting the fusion of Vedder’s rock sensibilities and Khan’s devotional style, making it a standout moment on an already excellent soundtrack.
8. Mike Watt with Eddie Vedder and Dave Grohl – “Against The ‘70s” from ‘Ball-Hog Or Tugboat?’ (1995)
Mike Watt, a revered figure in alternative rock, enlisted a star-studded lineup for his solo album ‘Ball-Hog Or Tugboat?’. Besides Vedder and Dave Grohl, members of Beastie Boys, Jane’s Addiction, Sonic Youth, and Dinosaur Jr. contributed. “Against The ‘70s,” released during Pearl Jam’s peak, surprisingly gained radio airplay. Watt’s touring band for this album was equally impressive, featuring Vedder and Pat Smear on guitars and Grohl on drums, with Foo Fighters as the opening act on their very first tour. This track is a testament to the collaborative spirit of the 90s alternative rock scene.
7. Eddie Vedder – “Society” from ‘Into The Wild’ (2007)
“Society,” written by Jerry Hannan for ‘Into The Wild,’ is powerfully delivered by Eddie Vedder. The poignant line, “Society, you’re a crazy breed/I hope you’re not lonely without me,” gains immense weight in the context of the film’s tragic narrative. Vedder’s rendition captures the film’s themes of alienation and disillusionment with modern society, resonating deeply with audiences. It’s a haunting and thought-provoking song that enhances the film’s emotional impact.
6. Eddie Vedder and Ben Harper – “No More (live)” from ‘Body of War: Songs that Inspired an Iraq War Veteran’ (2008)
“No More” is a potent live collaboration between Eddie Vedder and Ben Harper for the ‘Body of War: Songs that Inspired an Iraq War Veteran’ compilation. The song is a powerful anti-war anthem, fueled by Vedder and Harper’s passionate vocals and acoustic guitar work. This collaboration underscores both artists’ commitment to using their music to address social and political issues, creating a moving and impactful protest song.
5. Eddie Vedder – “Long Way” from ‘Earthling’ (2022)
“Long Way” from ‘Earthling’ showcases Eddie Vedder’s Tom Petty influences. This mellow, well-crafted rock song represents a departure from the grungier sound of his earlier work. It reflects a maturity and artistic evolution, demonstrating Vedder’s willingness to explore different musical styles without being constrained by genre expectations or “indie cred” concerns. The song is a testament to Vedder’s growth as a songwriter and performer.
4. Eddie Vedder – “Guaranteed” from “Into The Wild” (2007)
“Guaranteed,” the closing song of ‘Into The Wild,’ serves as a poignant farewell from the film’s protagonist. This mournful and reflective track earned Vedder a Golden Globe Award. The song’s emotional depth and lyrical beauty perfectly encapsulate the film’s themes of solitude and self-discovery. “Guaranteed” is a testament to Vedder’s songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level.
3. Eddie Vedder – “Brother The Cloud’ from ‘Earthling’ (2022)
“Brother The Cloud” from ‘Earthling’ is a moving exploration of loss and grief. The lyrics, “If I could wish, wish it away/I would bleed out my knees and pray/If I could give, all that I have/To bring him back today,” are raw and intensely personal. While speculation suggests it might be about Chris Cornell, the song’s power lies in its universal themes of loss and longing. “Brother The Cloud” is a testament to Vedder’s ability to craft deeply resonant songs that connect with listeners on a personal level.
2. Eddie Vedder and Mike McCready – “Masters of War” from ‘Bob Dylan: The 30th Anniversary Celebration” (1992)
At Bob Dylan’s 30th Anniversary Celebration concert in 1992, Eddie Vedder and Mike McCready delivered a powerful rendition of “Masters of War.” Sharing the stage with legends like Neil Young and Eric Clapton, the then-relatively unknown Pearl Jam members stood their ground. Their performance was a defining moment, establishing them as peers to rock and folk icons. Vedder’s passionate delivery of Dylan’s protest anthem was also an early declaration of his political stance, showcasing his willingness to use his platform for social commentary.
1. Temple of the Dog – “Hunger Strike” from ‘Temple of the Dog’ (1991)
“Hunger Strike” by Temple of the Dog marks Eddie Vedder’s introduction to the global music scene. Temple of the Dog, a supergroup featuring members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam, was formed as a tribute to their late friend Andy Wood. While Soundgarden was already gaining momentum, Pearl Jam was still on the cusp of fame. Chris Cornell’s willingness to share vocal duties with the newcomer Vedder on “Hunger Strike” was pivotal. This song became a breakout hit, giving the world its first taste of the voice that would define a generation. “Hunger Strike” remains an iconic track, showcasing the raw talent of both Cornell and Vedder and the collaborative spirit of the Seattle grunge scene.
Eddie Vedder’s journey beyond Pearl Jam reveals a multifaceted artist constantly exploring new musical territories. From introspective ukulele ballads to powerful rock collaborations and poignant soundtrack contributions, these Eddie Vedder songs showcase the depth and breadth of his musical talent, solidifying his place as one of rock’s most enduring and respected figures.
