Pearl Jam - elderly woman behind the counter in a small town - Live Argentina

[@denisemagill7851]

One of the most underrated songs by Pearl Jam. Eddie Vedder perfectly captures the essence of American rural existence through the idea of an old lady - enduring, mystical, and strong. Not only does this song serve as Vedder's vision of American small town living, but also exemplifies his respect and admiration towards the elderly.

[@Ultranothing]

To me, this is a song about love lost and the changes we go through after all is said and done. The elderly woman, still sitting behind the same counter of the store she'd worked at all those years ago, and he walks back in. He recognizes her face; haunting and familiar but he can't seem to put a name to her. But she knows him, and as the memories come flooding back she realizes that even though she's still behind that counter, so much has changed through the years. She's changed by not changing at all; still in that same old town. And time has faded his heart and his thoughts of her. They're not the same people anymore, despite their predictable fates. They never thought they'd see one another again, but it's too late. Maybe that's a bit too literal of an interpretation?

[@harrybauer2063]

Very well said, Very good analysis. nice insight.

[@MarijaCZadar]

This is what I just read on Wikipedia: Vedder about "Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town": It's kind of about a lady, and she's getting on in years, and she's stuck in this small town. Small towns fascinate me: You either struggle like hell to get out, to some people want to stay 'cause then they're the big fish in the small pond, and then others just kind of get stuck there. So here she is working in this little place, and then an old flame comes in, and he's probably driving a nice car and looking kind of sharp-not a fancy car, but he's moved on. And then she sees him, and at first she doesn't even remember who he is, and then she realizes who it is. She's just too embarrassed to say 'hello.'

[@lucasvigo1136]

Denise Magill He perfectly captures that essence, that is what i understand about this song very underrated and very meanfull at the same time is like the old lady behind the counter

[@dkappers3797]

@@Ultranothing I love what you wrote here, it's what comes to my mind also. And that PJ put that in a song while still quite young shows how wonderfull they are.

[@wiLLjjjj]

I don't know about you but I love the bands that keep the song sounding exactly the same as the studio version in concert.

[@JayP-ct8xz]

Sometimes Vedder fucks with the audience by slightly changing the song, lyrics, timing, etc.

[@marcijager6477]

Sometimes it gets me mad when they change it 😂

[@johnd3124]

Pearl Jam sounds better live. I hate the studio versions of many of their songs... Live on Two Legs is the best recording of their songs.

[@VicInNocal]

Then you wouldn't like Counting Crows lol

[@richardfolsum4977]

I love hearing the crowd sing this song.

[@GonzaloMartinRamos]

Argentine crowd is crazy - if you google around or look it up here on KZbin, you will find many clips of bands talking about their experience playing in Argentina. Here - if you liked the crowd singing here, this is going to blow your mind - PJ Argentina 2005 - Yellow Ledbetter - kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5ubi3Wdr5yYjck

[@marissas8488]

And no cellphones in sight

[@boredhousewifelife]

I understand the lyrics of this song so much more now, at this point in my life. music is great like that. it seems to grow up with us, and as we grow and change so does the meaning behind the music. my granddad passed away this past Feb. 3rd. my grandmother is a shell of her former self without him. she's 81 years old, she's been married to him since she was 17. with age other problems come besides being closer to death. she is now suffering from dementia and the early stages of alzheimers. this song makes me think of her. how she must be feeling inside. not only has she lost her husband, but now she's losing all those precious memories of all the years they shared. maybe it's a blessing and not a curse, because she can't miss what she can't remember. but then again, I picture her waking up and thinking my granddad is still right there with her, only to be snapped back into the harsh reality that he's gone, and she is alone for the first time. that's what I think of when he sings "I just want to scream, hello! My god it's been so long, never dreamed you'd return But now here you are, and here I am Hearts and thoughts they fade, away...." It's what I picture her wanting so bad. And it's what I picture her saying when she awakes to find she's back in his arms when they meet again in heaven.

[@judyblaine2645]

sorry you are having to go throygh this.She must have had a beautiful life for all these years,Some people die never having what they had,I lost my husband of 32 years 2 years ago,but i am 60,but i have 2 daughters,2 grandbabies,and am very blessed to hae had him ,some never do.So maybe she remembers all she needs to.od be with her and you

[@beastcobain]

Wow. Right on.

[@BRAVO2ZERO1966]

Carrie Carden This genuinely bought a tear to my eye and a lump in my throat....so sad for the poor lady :(

[@giventofly94]

+Carrie Carden i'm not crying, just cutting some onions here...

[@marcuscaldeira6991]

+Carrie Carden This is exactly what pearl jam can cause, every song has a meaning to each one

[@steve1751]

PJ is so versatile.... Fast rock songs, ballads... They can do it all

[@1218mariojr]

bro I'm 21 and I think these guys are the best , I went to pearl jam concert 8/22/16 and wow I love these guys . their music will still be playing when I'm 50 I bet

[@rafisqiadhaputra6136]

Most of grunge bands are versatile.thats why i love this specific genre/scene

[@AlwaysTyler]

This is REAL POWER!!! I have always loved and listened to music but pearl jam is much bigger than that. It is a feeling that cannot be described but maybe a few of you who are also in there 30's, 40's can relate to when times and music had so much meaning and feeling and expression, it was a time of change a change and movement that will forever shake the grounds of the music world and helped mold our lives. Groups like these cannot be duplicated they are far and few between. We grew up in a different time, a time when you couldn't just download a song , we waited as if it were the days before Christmas for these songs to play on the radio and or stand outside a record store in hopes we could still get a copy, these songs and moments meant something to us, we had to cherish them for there was no such thing as NOW or instant gratification, it was a special time and times that nobody or anything can take from us! I don't mean to bash todays artist,kids, music etc. it was just different and These songs pierced our hearts and touched our souls, we were part of a huge movement and these guys really helped so many of us find the light when sometimes we felt as though we were in the dark. Funny I just saw them in MIAMI the other night and I found myself getting alittle teary eyed, not because I was sad it was because I remember how I felt when I was in the 8th grade listening to them and going through all the things teenagers go through but Music made me feel safe and understood, Pearl Jam made me feel Safe and Understood. Point is I found myself again the other night and I felt safe, understood,happy and not alone! I was singing, feeling, and moving with thousands of people without a worry in mind, I was Home again, Young, and Free! Pearl jam you've been with all the way and words cannot express how much that means to me and so many others. I Thank you for Givin Me and so many others Wings to Fly, we will all be here for you guys as you have been for us!!Thank youTDP-

[@arevlis9794]

Totally agree with you.

[@MarsCandyBar]

I'm only 21 and saw them Monday at Wrigley and I even can understand what you mean. Obviously I didn't grow up in that generation, but with my dad doing so and always playing it. Literally texted me dad after the concert telling him his generation kicks mines ass..

[@gmuro-js7so]

That was deep.. im glad i was part of that generation.

[@eleonoradeane5170]

g.muro! ! Me too!

[@СтаньоКоновски]

You described my toughts again man. Just found this song today (when im in process of listening theyr discography nowdays) And i'll be not ashamed when i say that it bringed tears to my eyes too.Cause how can this song be so beautiful,i cant describe with words.It just needs to be feeld.Tnx you PJ for the beautiful music! Tnx you very much!

[@veronicatrujilloflorentine29]

My god its been so long, never dreamed you would return, But now here you are, and here i am... Hearts and thoughts they fade...away.🎶🎶

[@AndiMarie]

"I Change by not changing at all"

[@prettynoose8497]

This is one of the few songs that still puts a lump in my throat after 19 years of listening to it

[@MarijaCZadar]

This is what I've just read on Wikipedia: Vedder about "Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town": It's kind of about a lady, and she's getting on in years, and she's stuck in this small town. Small towns fascinate me: You either struggle like hell to get out, to some people want to stay 'cause then they're the big fish in the small pond, and then others just kind of get stuck there. So here she is working in this little place, and then an old flame comes in, and he's probably driving a nice car and looking kind of sharp-not a fancy car, but he's moved on. And then she sees him, and at first she doesn't even remember who he is, and then she realizes who it is. She's just too embarrassed to say 'hello.'

[@boredhousewifelife]

You are correct. I read that as well. But what's so great about music is it's subjective. A artist will write a song for their own personal reasons. They write about how the feel inside, what's going on in their head. They write about whatever helps them to release what they're feeling inside. And if it can help someone else get through hard times that's the icing on the cake. They know full well people will hear it and connect to the meaning in a completely different way. And if it helps them get through the day then it's a job well done. I may be reading into things too much. But when I read you comment I felt like you saw my comment and misunderstood what I was saying. I know that this song isn't a love story. If anything it was meant to make a political statement, like the video for Jeremy. My Grandfather who is the closest thing to a Father I've ever known. Since my Dad was M.I.A my granddad was the only father figure I had. He passed away Feb.3rd 2014. It was very sudden. My Grandmother is not doing well at all without him. She's a shell of the person I've known all my life. She suffers from dementia and the early stage Alzheimers. The lyrics used over and over are "hearts and thoughts they fade away" which bring to mind my Grandmother. She is losing her mind more and more each day. And her husband, her "heart" has faded away. Again, all this is just my opinion. But I strongly believe most truly gifted songwriters create songs and lyrics that almost anyone could relate to at some point in their life. It's awesome to pick their brain, and hear what inspired them to write it. But it won't change how the song speaks to me and what it means for me personal. PS. Not trying to start a fight. Just wanted to state that I know that's not what the song was written about. Just what it's about to me :)

[@MarijaCZadar]

Carrie Carden No problem Carrie, I understand :) I'm sorry your Grandfather passed away. I wish well to you and your Grandmother. I hope the years ahead will be gentle to her and you all. It's not easy. Hug XXX

[@boredhousewifelife]

Marija C Thank you so very much for your kind words! I greatly appreciate them. I wish you well also. The world needs more people like you. God bless and take care. Lots of love and many prayers always, Carrie

[@anneemull]

Carrie Carden well said!

[@jeffreywatkins1581]

That's what's up. I always kinda figured that was what the song told, but I always thought of it from the male's perspective. Like she was his old flame...

[@erichodgson1020]

When you have that many people singing word for word with you you've achieved your goal as a musician. To reach the hearts of the people, and bring them all together. Such a beautiful thing to witness.

[@selekkselekk2]

His voice, their songs, especially acoustic ones... are like... calm, strong, touching, and deep... Like... somehow real, but still like a poetry :)

[@davidmanick3039]

2021 !!!!! The best band ever !!!!!!!!!!

[@rfranquinho]

Everytime he sings "I Just wanna scream hello" and i hear the crouwd in the background... OMG, i get goosebumps!!! Great song, great band, and what a decade the 90's where for music!! Peace out :)

[@francesbarrineau4045]

This song has so much empathy and feeling it tells you a lot about Eddie and his performance of it is so moving and melancholy.

[@UmbrellaWatch]

to the trolls that talk about crowd doing the sing along messing song up. at 2:39 he appreciates it and saids " I hear ya!" he knows his audience loves this and appreciates it. just sayin. This song touches soo many.

[@notTHEcher]

love this song...one of my favorites by them, even though it damn near makes me cry every time. maybe that's WHY i like it so much. how can you NOT like music that MOVES you??

[@kayteebee1389]

I finally saw PJ live last month in Hamilton, ON. I was in tears for half the show. No other band can move me quite so much. I grew up on them because my parents had great music taste (thank god), and the butterflies they gave me is a feeling that cannot be duplicated.

[@claud0697]

Eddie's voice is unique can't describe but its amazing every pearl jam's song is an anthem!!

[@Treenaish]

Thank you Pearl Jam for making me feel very blessed to have been a long time follower of yours. My mother in law recently passed away from Dementia. You can take this song in anyway you want.. To me it reminds of working & living with someone who has either alzheimers or dementia.. Thank you !

[@Aisling935]

I hadn't heard this song for several years until today... I've recently reconnected with some old friends and it just brings back memories of being in the late teens, leaving school/starting college, that age of innocence... it brought a smile to my face

[@mkultra8640]

Awsome songwriting. When someone can reach into your soul with words and pull out deep feeling he is truly an artist. I find that to me, pearl jams songs have actually gotten better with age. This song has special meaning for me because I married and had kids to young. When I actually understood what real love felt like I was to deep in my marriage for a real relationship. There is only ONE woman I have ever felt real love for, but loyalty to my wife and kids had to be first. I imagine this song is about seeing her again....one day. P.S. I know nobody cares about my life but E.V. and his damn lyrics got me all misty eyed, so I wanted to write my peace.

[@mariaursulinagonzalezdehes709]

Eddie's a true poet..... still very underrated though..

[@Ysai1205]

Pearl Jam will always have that special place in my heart. Their songs helped me cope up with depression during my adolescent/teen years. I will always be one of their biggest avid fans.

[@AndiMarie]

My favorite all time. Hands down one of the best!

[@zepc00]

I just can't imagine my life without Pearl Jam's awesome music! Thanks for this 20 years of beautiful moments PJ!

[@pasqualebonaddio9990]

Pearl jam 😍♥️the best in the world I love you 🎶💕❤️💥

[@JordanSaysShalom]

I can't imagine what it must feel like to have a whole arena sing a long to one of your songs. Congrats Pearl Jam.

[@randyhetrick4352]

How can you not love this song?

[@Dracula0311]

Pearl Jam is Epic

[@Adalsteinno]

His voice really is godlike. Makes me proud to be a true child of the '90s. Long live Grunge.

[@Gio7520]

"I just want to scream...HELLO... My god its been so long, never dreamed you'd return.. Hearts and thoughts they fade...away..." Though I've heard this song before, once again this band & Eddie's emotions has touched my soul and made me shed a tear. I have a feeling this will happen to me in the future when I get old...

[@paulosamaralsilva]

This music and "Better man" are the best music's of Pearl Jam for me...

[@gutts077]

I’m singing this live tomorrow. The first time I’ve been on stage for over 10 years. This song was an easy choice. So beautiful

[@Jorlivia]

Means so much more during Quarantine 2020...anyone else

[@sunonfire2011]

Me too. 👍 🙂

[@coltsuperocean10]

Gotta love Pearl Jam, simply brilliant.

[@tinaschlobohm9386]

There are songs that make me cry. This is one of them.

[@scottbaker7104]

Goosebumps

[@laurencline9905]

insane how wonderful he sounds nearly 20 years later.. melts my heart!

[@TurboJimbo]

The Coolest thing at outdoor arena with Pearl Jam performing this song !!! Packed it was, front row lawn section, playing the song “Eddie glancing at me. Singing right back “it might have only been a heartbeat but my man looked right at ME !!! Aaaauuuugggghhhhh !!!

[@joaquingarcia2537]

I seem to recognize your face Haunting, familiar yet I can't seem to place it Cannot find the candle of thought to light your name Lifetimes are catching up with me All these changes taking place I wish I'd seen the place But no one's ever taken me Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away I swear, I recognize your breath Memories like fingerprints are slowly raising Me, you wouldn't recall for I'm not my former It's hard when you're stuck upon the shelf I changed by not changing at all Small town predicts my fate Perhaps that's what no one wants to see I just want to scream hello My God it's been so long Never dreamed you'd return But now here you are and here I am Hearts and thoughts they fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade

[@tonycandela-eo3fb]

Did you ever notice the original studio recording verse when he sings . “ Of Course You Can’t See Me , For I’m Not My Former “ To What he changed long ago when performing in concert . “ Me You Wouldn’t Recall , For I’m Not My Former “

[@imanolbastarrechea8835]

my god its been so long never dreamt you d return. this is so right in my life, and so absent at the very same time

[@MrThompson1970]

I agree. Their music has helped me through dark days as well. I listen to many types of music, but would say that none of it hits home like Pearl Jam.

[@kobolwald]

Esta canción es jodidamente maravillosa. No hace falta decir nada más

[@6runger]

hermoso!!! Simply Beautiful

[@bradsmith001]

I sung this song to my 2 baby girls to calm them to sleep and thwm had the opportunity to sing this to my baby daughter who passed away at birth and this was a fantatstic outlet for me

[@gatekeeper7676]

A classic sing along!! Love this Band!!

[@edwardfetner2513]

That "I just wanna scream hello" section makes me cry EVERY TIME

[@lehnsvier1971]

SAME

[@amandasloan2761]

My favourite Pearl Jam song ...

[@rodykpo]

los estoy esperando de nuevo por Argentina!!! Dios quiera que pronto vuelvan!

[@PowerShellWizard]

Hearts and thoughts they fade.....fade awaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay. Veddar is such an awesome vocalist

[@Cbryer101]

R.I.P to my dear father. Although your light faded near the end we only remember the incredible light guided us throughout our lives.

[@tonyvelez1656]

This song remids me of my dad too whom we lost to Alzheimer's on 12/25/2016. So much left unsaid between us. That used to kill me, steal my thoughts & peace of mind tormenting my soul. I guess he must have known somehow cause sometime after he passed, he came to me in a dream and smiling told me that he's doing good. I am finally at peace today. My respects go out to you. May this song help us remember not just the sad days but also the glorious happy days as well. Be at peace.

[@MissTrien]

"I change by not changing at all..."

[@AnEnemySpy456]

Good thing is they're still putting out beautiful stuff.

[@MrIncorr3ct]

one of my favorites. Paints such a vivid image of the emotions of aging. How did he write this at 25 or whatever he was

[@CreepyHouseMusic]

Still One of My favorite song's..Pearl Jam Rock's..!!

[@aamaritoo]

cada ves que la escucho se me pone la piel de gallina........

[@darioalejandro9390]

Ese día yo estaba lavando copas y platos en un restaurante y un canal lo pasaba por momentos se llama Tn,yo seguí lavando pero mi espíritu viajo, estuve ahí amo Pearl jam y gracias a la vida en 2011 pude estar en la plata. Un sentimiento que no voy a olvidar

[@MarijaCZadar]

I love this song.

[@popsfursmurf]

it's like the 9th. pure perfection. three hundred years from now.......

[@MrDarwinrules]

Love this song. Great artist great band. Music today is missing many ingredients most obvious is talent.

[@CHICOZTACOS]

Such a powerful song.

[@gracedamato9617]

beautiful song, beautiful Eddie!

[@ienjoysandwiches]

When I saw him live he just played the guitar for this one and the whole crowd karakoed the entire thing. Amazing to hear 36000 people do that at once.

[@tnbourne]

The clip of "Better Man" near the end PJ 20 is amazing too. I cannot imagine what it must feel like to have 100,000 people singing your own song to you.

[@iael]

gracias!! AMO este tema, ojalá vayan a Ar este año así los veo!

[@golfingguy43]

One of my favorite Memories!

[@MsNNora]

.....such a beautious voice.

[@jamessullivan9574]

A powerful song.... Hard to listen to with the memories attached to it..... if those only knew. 🎸

[@richardf.kerdasha9515]

HERE ARE THE LYRICS FOR ALL TO ENJOY : I seem to recognize your face Haunting, familiar yet I can't seem to place it Cannot find the candle of thought to light your name Lifetimes are catching up with me All these changes taking place I wish I'd seen the place But no one's ever taken me Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away I swear, I recognize your breath Memories like fingerprints are slowly raising Me, you wouldn't recall for I'm not my former It's hard when you're stuck upon the shelf I changed by not changing at all Small town predicts my fate Perhaps that's what no one wants to see I just want to scream hello My God it's been so long Never dreamed you'd return But now here you are and here I am Hearts and thoughts they fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away Hearts and thoughts they fade.......

[@ReverendFrankCrisp]

I luv pearl jam #1 band

[@sabresbest]

A great song.

[@TravenV]

i just want to scream...hello... my god its been so long, never dreamed you'd return but now here you are, and here i am hearts and thoughts they fade...away..., Epic

[@adrianenzastiga1846]

Best Pearl Jam song. Ever.

[@amandasanchez7252]

Music that speaks to the soul

[@nickj1706]

i actually feel like happycrying to this song!

[@rodeopac]

My Favorite PJ song eva!

[@danielriffog]

ha pasado ya unasemana de q estuvieron aca en chilee...y todabia no me la creo de q estuve ahiii..pearl jam lo mas grande

[@RODREJ]

Palco sem efeitos especiais. Apenas boa música cantada com alma. Excelente!

[@margeretamila]

when i die ... this is the song... thank u eddie vedder and PJ

[@7oveandother5tuff]

Amazing music....stunningly gorgeous man....

[@marshallmathers4044]

Terribly sorry to hear about your father. There's something very spiritual about Eddie and Pearl Jam's music that just brings us home and carries my father's presence as well, love

[@Maite494]

Que coro por dios! Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away..

[@layneinchains4]

one of my faves

[@MrBuc128]

Great song .I hear influences of You've Got to Hide your Love Away by the Beatles in this song with the vigorous strumming of the acoustic in 6/8 time.

[@TheDebkaye]

pearl jam....the best.

[@libertysomething]

Great Song!

[@MyReflctnIsNowVoid]

never dreamed you'd return

[@2DuasCaras]

his voice is amazing

[@TRUTHRULES777]

The most precious:;

[@tdogg98264]

Goosebumps at "I just want to scream hellooooooooooooooo".... every time.

[@harrybauer2063]

Eddie Vetter is Pearl Jam. This band know their place in music history. No Band and lead vocal Riff. Epic, Incredible, Historic.

[@reddeve2531]

Beautiful. Simply beautiful.

[@asfsadfsfa]

Como me ise fanatico de pearl jam................me encantan todos sus temas te acen reflecionar mucho y poder pasar muchas instancias de tu vida :=) gracias ediiiii

[@rfranquinho]

1 guy had is hearts and thoughts faded away!

[@salm37]

awesome...I seem to recognize your face Haunting, familiar, yet I can't seem to place it Cannot find the candle of thought to light your name Lifetimes are catching up with me All these changes taking place, I wish I'd seen the place But no one's ever taken me Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away... Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away... I swear I recognize your breath Memories like fingerprints are slowly raising Me, you wouldn't recall, for I'm not my former It's hard when, you're stuck upon the shelf I changed by not changing at all, small town predicts my fate Perhaps that's what no one wants to see I just want to scream...hello... My god its been so long, never dreamed you'd return But now here you are, and here I am Hearts and thoughts they fade...away... Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away... Hearts and thoughts they fade, fade away... Hearts and thoughts they fade...away Hearts and thoughts they fade...away

[@culturegroundz8192]

+salm37 lyrics like that are what put Eddie in a whole other stratosphere of artist! Legend

[@leobordino]

I love all this guys

[@JoaoR]

A melhor banda do mundo ! Grandes Pearl Jam ! Cá vos espero outra vez por Portugal !

[@Titmawz]

This song has such a beautiful lyrical content!

[@PlaceholderOne]

The power that this man has!

[@reddeve2531]

Watch the video for "Betterman" from "PJ20, live at Madison Square Garden"....The audience alone sings the ENTIRE opening, Eddie shuts up and lets them go for it, and it's one of the MOST goose-bumpy moments in music that I've ever seen. It's absolutely beautiful. Eddie has much love,caring and respect for his fans, and that's all part of it.