Every song has a story, a message that its creators want to convey to their listeners. Just Breathe by legendary alternative rock band Pearl Jam is no exception. The reflective, intimate and timeless acoustic song was released on October 31, 2009, and has since then touched millions of hearts with its simple yet profound message.
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A Brief History of Pearl Jam
Pearl Jam was formed in 1990 in Seattle, Washington. The band’s lineup includes Eddie Vedder as the lead vocalist and guitar player, Stone Gossard as rhythm guitarist, Mike McCready as lead guitarist, Jeff Ament as bassist, and Matt Cameron as the drummer. Pearl Jam is considered one of the most influential bands in the grunge and alternative rock scenes, and has sold over 85 million records worldwide.
The Inspiration Behind Just Breathe
Just Breathe was inspired by a ukulele chord that Gossard played in his bathroom at 4 am. He then presented the chord progression to Vedder, who immediately wrote the lyrics and melody of the song. The song’s inspiration came from Vedder’s contemplation of mortality and the importance of cherishing every moment of life.
Vedder explained the song’s inspiration in an interview with NPR, “Maybe it’s just being aware of your own mortality, and how fleeting time is. And the older you get, the more you realize that life is short; and you want to be as present as possible for it.”
The Lyrics and Message of Just Breathe
The lyrics of Just Breathe are simple yet deep, touching upon themes of love, life, and death. The song opens with the following lines –
“Yes, I understand that every life must end, aw-huh, As we sit alone, I know someday we must go, aw-huh”
The verse acknowledges the inevitability of death and reminds us that we are all mortals with limited time on earth. However, the chorus offers a message of hope and appreciation for life.
“Just breathe (ahh), just breathe (ohh), ah-huh, I’m a lucky man, to count on both hands, the ones I love, Some folks just have one, yeah, others, they’ve got none, Stay with me, Let’s just breathe.”
The chorus encourages us to take a moment and appreciate the simple things in life, such as breathing, and to cherish our loved ones. Vedder’s voice is fragile yet powerful, reminiscent of a lullaby that soothes and comforts the listener.
The Impact of Just Breathe
Just Breathe has had a significant impact on Pearl Jam’s fans and the music industry as a whole. The song became the band’s first top 10 single on Billboard’s Adult Alternative Songs chart, where it peaked at number two. The song also received critical acclaim, with many praising its simple yet poignant message.
The song has been covered by various artists, including Willie Nelson, who recorded a version of the song for his album Heroes. The song has also been used in popular TV shows, such as Grey’s Anatomy, American Idol, and Parenthood.
Conclusion
Just Breathe is a timeless song that celebrates the beauty of life and encourages us to cherish every moment that we have. The song’s message of love, gratitude, and mindfulness resonates with people of all ages and backgrounds. Its universal appeal has turned it into a modern classic, and its legacy is sure to live on for years to come. As Eddie Vedder sings in the chorus – “Stay with me, let’s just breathe.”
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