“I was living on the wrong side of the tracks in Evanston, Illinois, in a home for boys. We had these Jackson 5 records. I really related to their voices - they were about my age, but they were doing it.”

American musician, lead vocalist and primary lyricist for Pearl Jam

Eddie Jerome Vedder is an American musician and the lead vocalist and primary lyricist of the rock band Pearl Jam. He is also known for his work with Temple of the Dog, where he appeared as a guest vocalist. Vedder is closely associated with Pearl Jam’s rise as a major rock band, and his role in the group centers on both singing and writing lyrics. His public voice is tied to rock music, especially through his work with Pearl Jam and his earlier contribution to Temple of the Dog, a tribute project for singer Andrew Wood.