Released on Pearl Jam's 1994 album Vitalogy, "Better Man" became a massive radio hit despite not being issued as a commercial single initially. Written by Eddie Vedder years prior, its structure builds dynamically, fitting within alternative rock while incorporating grunge's raw emotion and accessible pop rock hooks that fueled its widespread popularity.

Featuring Eddie Vedder's impassioned vocals navigating themes of struggle and resignation, "Better Man" (1994) showcases Pearl Jam's songwriting prowess beyond typical grunge fare. Its quiet verses explode into powerful choruses, creating a compelling dynamic. A consistent live staple, this alternative rock track remains one of the band's most beloved songs.

SONG MEANING: "Better Man" explores the painful dilemma of being trapped in an unhappy or abusive relationship. Eddie Vedder wrote it reflecting on his mother's troubled marriage, portraying a woman who feels stuck ("She lies and says she's in love with him, can't find a better man"), unable to leave despite her unhappiness, contemplating freedom but rationalizing staying.

Hailing from Pearl Jam's groundbreaking 1991 album Ten, "Even Flow" became a major grunge hit when released as a single in 1992. Defined by Stone Gossard's funky, driving guitar riff and a relentless rhythm section, it exemplifies the band's powerful early sound. Its high energy makes it a frequent addition to "workout song" compilations.

"Even Flow" (from 1991's Ten, single in 1992) showcases Eddie Vedder's distinct, almost spoken-word vocal delivery in the verses contrasting with the powerful chorus. Mike McCready contributes a signature wah-drenched guitar solo. A notoriously difficult song for the band to capture in the studio, its raw energy translates perfectly live, making it an enduring grunge concert staple.

SONG MEANING: Eddie Vedder has explained that "Even Flow" tells the story of a homeless man living on the streets. The lyrics depict his daily struggles, feelings of alienation, possible illiteracy or mental illness ("Thoughts arrive like butterflies"), and the experience of sleeping outdoors ("Pillows made of concrete") – a commentary on the harsh realities faced by the homeless.

Released in 1991 as Pearl Jam's first single from their monumental debut Ten, "Alive" served as a powerful introduction to their signature grunge sound. Written around a riff by guitarist Stone Gossard, the song features a driving rhythm section and Eddie Vedder's passionate vocals, immediately establishing the band as a major force within the burgeoning grunge scene.

"Alive" is renowned for Mike McCready's epic, blues-influenced guitar solo and Eddie Vedder’s intense delivery of its dark, autobiographical lyrics. Despite the somber subject matter, the song's anthemic chorus resonated widely, making this 1991 grunge track a massive hit on rock radio and a staple of Pearl Jam's powerful live performances ever since.

SONG MEANING: "Alive" tells a semi-autobiographical story based on Eddie Vedder's life, concerning a young man who discovers the man he thought was his father died and his current father is his stepfather. Adding to the trauma, his grieving mother develops an inappropriate, incestuous fixation on him due to his resemblance to his biological father. The chorus "I'm still alive" was intended as a curse.