Wrote the song "Alive" after learning the man he presumed to be his father was actually his step-father.

Is a Chicago Cubs fan.

Vedder was born Edward Louis Severson III in 1964. He spent most of his childhood under the impression that his stepfather (last name Mueller) was his real father. Later he changed his last name from "Mueller" to "Vedder", which is his mother's maiden name.

Vedder is also a big fan of The Ramones. In 1996, he travelled incognito with them to Argentina when The Ramones said goodbye to the stages there, in the tour "Adiós Ramones".

Is a vinyl fanatic and avid surfer.

In fall of 2004, as a member of Pearl Jam, he participated in the Vote for Change concert tour organized to encourage the defeat of George W. Bush in the U.S. presidential election.

Musical influences include The Who, Neil Young, and The Doors.

Arrested and charged with drunkeness and disturbing the peace, November 18, 1993, along with then White Sox pitcher Jack McDowell, after the two scuffled with bar patrons in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Lead singer for Seattle grunge band, Pearl Jam.

Daughter, Olivia, born June 2004.

Ranked #64 on VH1's 100 Sexiest Artists.

Is a vegetarian.

Supported Green Party candidate Ralph Nader in the 2000 elections.

Was in the San Diego band, 'Bad Radio'.

Admires American writer Kurt Vonnegut.