Pearl Jam delivered an unforgettable performance at their final 2024 tour stop in Sydney, covering Temple of the Dog’s Hunger Strike live for the first time in 10 years. The band last performed the iconic track in 2014 at Neil Young’s Bridge School Benefit, alongside the late Chris Cornell. Since Cornell’s passing in 2017, Pearl Jam hadn’t revisited the song—until now.
The emotional rendition saw Eddie Vedder and guitarist Mike McCready share the song’s famous vocals, creating a powerful moment for fans. The crowd responded with overwhelming emotion, as the band paid tribute to their fallen friend. Hunger Strike, a song that has since become synonymous with both Pearl Jam and Temple of the Dog, felt even more poignant in light of Cornell’s death.
Along with Hunger Strike, Vedder also honoured Bruce Springsteen by covering No Surrender during the same show. This marked the first time Vedder performed the track live since 2006, adding yet another layer of nostalgia to an already historic night.
Pearl Jam’s 2024 tour in support of their Dark Matter album has been full of surprises. The band shared the stage with Bradley Cooper, covered Nine Inch Nails, and even took playful shots at Ted Nugent. In a memorable moment, they let a fan join them on stage for Yellow Ledbetter, showcasing their legendary fan interaction. At one point during their Sydney concert, Vedder even took a moment to pay tribute to the two Australian methanol poisoning victims.
The Sydney show wrapped up a tour that proved Pearl Jam’s ability to combine emotional depth with rock ‘n’ roll energy. With Dark Matter still resonating with fans, the final show was a fitting conclusion to a year filled with unexpected performances and heartfelt tributes. For those lucky enough to witness it, this concert will be remembered as one of the most unforgettable of Pearl Jam’s storied career.
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