The Time Pearl Jam Played A Setlist Made Entirely Of Fan Requests

March 21, 2025

It was a warm summer evening in July 2016, when Pearl Jam, the iconic rock band known for their powerful lyrics and energetic performances, took to the stage at the beautiful Wrigley Field in Chicago. Fans poured into the stadium, their excitement crackling in the air like electricity. This wasn’t going to be an ordinary concert; it was a night dedicated entirely to fan requests. For weeks, fans had submitted their favorite songs, hoping that their choices would make the setlist. As the band members gathered backstage, the anticipation built, and their hearts raced.

As the lights dimmed and the crowd erupted in cheers, lead singer Eddie Vedder felt a mix of thrill and nervousness. This night was different from any other. Instead of relying on their standard setlist, they would be guided by their fans’ wishes. “This is a real collaboration,” Eddie said, looking out into the sea of eager faces, “We are here to give you what you want!” With that, the band launched into the first song, “Release.” The sound of the electric guitar mixed with Eddie’s haunting voice swept through the crowd, and a wave of emotions washed over everyone present.

Each song that followed felt like a journey through time. They played deep cuts from their early albums, classics that had been part of many fans’ lives, and even some songs that hadn’t been performed live in years. Dewey, a 15-year-old fan who had been sitting in the front row, felt tears welling in his eyes as he sang along to “Black.” The lyrics resonated with him, reminding him of moments he had shared with his late father, who had introduced him to Pearl Jam’s music. This was not just a concert; it was a celebration of memories, love, and connection.

As the night unfolded, there were surprises that the band never expected. A group of fans started chanting for “Crazy Mary,” a song that hadn’t been on their radar. Eddie shared a smile with his bandmates, and they dove into the performance, adding their own spin and creativity to the song. The band felt invigorated, feeding off the crowd’s energy and joy. It became clear that this unconventional setlist was not just a night of music; it was a testament to the bond between the band and their fans, a reminder that they were all in this together.

By the time the final song, “Alive,” echoed through the stadium, the atmosphere was electric, filled with an overwhelming sense of unity. Eddie, drenched in sweat and emotion, looked out at the crowd with gratitude. The night had not only been a celebration of their music but also a reflection of their journey as artists. The experience deepened their connection with fans and reminded them why they turned to music in the first place – to express feelings, share stories, and create lasting moments.

After the concert, Pearl Jam felt rejuvenated, inspired by the power of their fans’ voices. It reignited their passion for creating music that resonated deeply with people’s lives. This concert didn’t just make memories; it reconfirmed their purpose as artists. They understood that music was a bridge to experiences that transcended time and space, and that bond made their journey worthwhile. From that day forward, they carried the spirit of that night with them, continuously reminding themselves that the heart of their music was found in the hearts of their fans.