Eddie Vedder Debuts Powerful New Song With Chicago Youths At Obama Center Opening

Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder delivered one of the most meaningful performances of the Obama Presidential Center grand opening in Chicago on June 18, choosing to share the spotlight with a group of young musicians rather than make the moment about himself. Standing alongside members of the Chicago-based mentorship program Guitars Over Guns, Vedder unveiled a brand-new original song called “Better Believe,” created specifically for the historic occasion.

Before the performance began, Vedder reflected on how the project came together. He revealed that Barack Obama knew he would be performing with neighborhood musicians, but laughed when he learned they were planning to write an original song for the event. Obama reportedly joked that it sounded like a lot of work. According to Vedder, the former president was absolutely right—but the effort was worth it because the project embodied the very ideals the new center hopes to inspire: opportunity, mentorship, inclusion, and access to resources for future generations.

The collaboration brought together Vedder with students and alumni from Columbia College Chicago who participate in Guitars Over Guns, a nonprofit that uses music and mentorship to help young people discover their voices and build confidence. The song was co-written by Vedder and the young musicians, making it a genuine partnership rather than a simple guest appearance.

When “Better Believe” finally premiered, it quickly became one of the emotional highlights of the day. The uplifting anthem concluded with a powerful call-and-response section as the performers repeatedly sang, “We believe,” while Barack and Michelle Obama joined the crowd in clapping and singing along. The moment perfectly captured the spirit of the celebration, which focused on community, hope, and the power of young people to shape the future.

The project extended beyond the live performance. A studio version of “Better Believe” was released the same day, with proceeds supporting Guitars Over Guns and its mission to provide mentorship and creative opportunities for young artists. The recording was produced with the involvement of students, alumni, and professional musicians, ensuring the collaboration would continue making an impact long after the ceremony ended.

Vedder was one of many major artists who participated in the star-studded opening celebration, which also featured performances from Bruce Springsteen, Bono and The Edge, Stevie Wonder, Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, John Legend, Marc Anthony, Common, and others. Yet among all the legendary names on the bill, “Better Believe” stood out as a reminder that the event was not only about honoring the past, but also about investing in the next generation.