Eddie Vedder, renowned as the lead vocalist of Pearl Jam, has recently released an open letter addressing fans and the community of the 7 Worlds Collide project. This collaborative musical endeavor, initiated by New Zealand singer-songwriter Neil Finn, has seen contributions from a diverse group of artists over the years.
The 7 Worlds Collide project began in 2001 when Neil Finn assembled a group of musicians, including Eddie Vedder, Johnny Marr, Ed O’Brien, Tim Finn, Sebastian Steinberg, Phil Selway, Lisa Germano, and the band Betchadupa, for a series of live performances at the St. James Theatre in Auckland, New Zealand. These concerts were later compiled into a live album titled “7 Worlds Collide: Live at the St. James.”
In his heartfelt letter, Vedder reflects on the profound impact the 7 Worlds Collide project has had on his musical journey and personal growth. He emphasizes the unique bond formed among the participating artists and the project’s role in fostering a sense of global musical community. Vedder also expresses gratitude to the fans whose unwavering support has been instrumental in the project’s success.
The 7 Worlds Collide project was revisited in December 2008 when the original lineup, along with new contributors such as Jeff Tweedy, Glenn Kotche, John Stirratt, and Pat Sansone of Wilco, as well as Scottish singer-songwriter KT Tunstall, reconvened in Auckland to record a studio charity album for Oxfam. This album, titled “The Sun Came Out,” featured all-new material with contributions from the ensemble of artists.
Vedder’s letter serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of collaborative music projects in bridging cultural divides and creating lasting artistic expressions. His words resonate deeply with the ethos of 7 Worlds Collide, celebrating the unity and creativity that emerge when artists from around the world come together for a common purpose.
As fans and the music community reflect on Vedder’s message, the 7 Worlds Collide project stands as a testament to the magic that can happen when diverse talents unite, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of collaborative music.