Update October 31, 2012: Pearl Jam frontman's successful solo endeavor

Best known as the lead singer of the alternative rock band Pearl Jam, Eddie Vedder used music as a catharsis following a rough childhood and never looked back once he touched his first guitar. Recognized for a confessional lyrical style and an unmistakable rich baritone, Vedder has been called both an icon and one of the best lead singers of all time.
Pearl Jam was formed in 1990, and after Vedder found himself recruited into the band, they broke into the mainstream with the debut album "Ten." Now, more than a decade later and with an estimated 60 million records sold worldwide, the group has outlasted many of its contemporaries from the early 90's. With nine studio albums to date, the group broadened its musical range with every release thanks to Vedder's steady leadership and ability to block out the noise and just make music.
Known also for his songwriting and collaborations with other artists, Vedder has contributed to the soundtracks for films like "Dead Man Walking," "I Am Sam," "A Brokedown Melody," "Body of War" and "Reign Over Me." Still, it was an album worth of songs for the film "Into the Wild" that would officially be recognized as Vedder's first true solo effort. It was released on September 18, 2007 and would eventually land Vedder a Golden Globe award and a nomination at the 2008 Grammy Awards for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media.
Vedder's second album, "Ukulele Songs," along with a live DVD titled "Water on Road," was released on May 31, 2011. Touring in support of those projects, Vedder is playing smaller, more intimate venues. He's also spending his time supporting charities like Heal EB, an organization that raises funds and awareness for the rare skin disorder Epidermolysis Bullosa, a painful, often debilitating and even life-threatening disease that causes severe blistering with only the most minor contact.
In his spare time Vedder is an active surfer and focuses his energy on surf-related conservation efforts, most notably through The Surfrider Foundation. He has also supported the candidacies of various U.S. Presidential nominees, including Barack Obama.