Tunes Du Jour Presents Pearl Jam

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Pearl Jam’s debut album, Ten, dropped like a thunderclap in 1991, marking the band, along with Nirvana, as torchbearers of the burgeoning grunge movement. Tracks like “Jeremy,” “Alive,” and “Even Flow” introduced a raw, emotionally charged sound that resonated deeply with listeners navigating the angst of the era. “Alive” in particular became an anthem of resilience, while “Jeremy” showcased the band’s ability to channel societal issues into compelling narratives. The soaring guitar work of Mike McCready and Eddie Vedder’s visceral vocals remain unforgettable.

Over the years, Pearl Jam evolved beyond grunge, displaying a restless creativity. Vs. and Vitalogy expanded their sonic palette, producing standout tracks like “Daughter,” a haunting meditation on miscommunication, and “Better Man,” which blends poignancy and pop sensibility. Meanwhile, songs like “Spin the Black Circle” and “Corduroy” spotlighted their punk-rock influences, proving the band’s versatility. Vedder’s lyrics often straddle the personal and political, giving their music a timeless relevance.

Pearl Jam’s commitment to artistry extends beyond their studio albums. Their live performances, exemplified by their electric cover of Neil Young’s “Rockin’ in the Free World” and the soulful fan favorite “Yellow Ledbetter,” capture the band’s dynamic energy. “Last Kiss,” a surprise hit, has a unique backstory: Vedder discovered an old 45 of the early 1960s version, and the band initially recorded the song as a Christmas gift for fan club members. After its inclusion on a charity album, it unexpectedly became their biggest single, underscoring the unpredictable nature of their career.

Vedder’s solo work, particularly “Hard Sun” from the Into the Wild soundtrack, reflects the introspective side of Pearl Jam’s ethos. Meanwhile, quirky tracks like “Bugs” reveal a band unafraid to experiment with sound and subject matter. Their activism is woven into their art, from the anti-war anthem “World Wide Suicide” to their environmental and social justice efforts.

For over three decades, Pearl Jam has maintained their fiercely independent spirit while forging a deep connection with their fans. A key to the band’s enduring appeal is that they have never wavered on their commitment to intimate storytelling, emotional intensity, and staying true to their creative muse.

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Eddie Vedder!

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“There’s a close race in Washington State…it’s called Referendum 74. It’s about the right for same sex marriages to take place. We’d like to dedicate this one to couples that are in love, no matter what — of the same sex, of the opposite sexes, or tons of sex.” – Eddie Vedder of Pearl Jam, introducing the band’s song “Just Breathe” at a 2012 concert.

Referendum 74 was put to the voters to decide if a bill legalizing same-sex marriage in that state should be upheld. The measure passed with 53.7% of the vote. Just after midnight on December 9, 2012, legally-recognized same-sex weddings took place.

Today is Eddie Vedder’s 50th birthday. Here are twenty of his best.

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Glenn's Ten 005

This Date In Glenn’s Ten

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In 1980 an Ohio-born performer living in Australia wrote and recorded a song that went on to sell over six million copies. It went to #1 in a dozen or so countries, including Australia, Canada, Germany, France, and the UK, where it reigned on top for three weeks. It has been covered dozens of times in different languages, and that’s not including the many versions of the tune that have been uploaded to YouTube.

The performer is Joe Dolce and the song is “Shaddap You Face,” which was #1 in Glenn’s Ten (the only chart that matters) on this day in 1981.

Glenn's Ten 005Thirty-three years of Glenn’s Ten lists are in these books

My point in telling you this is this – no idea is too stupid. If there is a song you wish to write, a book you wish to publish, an invention you wish to create, go for it! You could be the next Joe Dolce! And if someone tells you your idea sucks, say to them “Ah, shaddup you face.”

Today’s playlist consists of songs that were #1 in Glenn’s Ten on May 8 going back to 1981. The only one missing is 1993’s entry, “Riding on a Rocket” by Shonen Knife, as that is not available on Spotify.