Eddie Vedder's Solo Vulnerability Shines in Netflix Documentary

The Pearl Jam frontman's emotional performances at a fundraiser for a rare skin disorder are featured in the new film "Matter of Time".

Feb. 27, 2026 at 7:42pm

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The first time Eddie Vedder toured without Pearl Jam, he felt discouraged by his mistakes onstage. But after talking to Bruce Springsteen, who told him that vulnerability can be a powerful force, Vedder leaned into that emotion during two sold-out solo shows in Seattle in 2023 to raise money for epidermolysis bullosa (EB) research. A new Netflix documentary, "Matter of Time," weaves those performances with personal stories of those affected by the rare and debilitating genetic skin disorder.

Why it matters

The documentary shines a light on EB, a little-known condition that causes extremely fragile skin and painful blisters. Vedder and his wife, Jill, who chairs the EB Research Partnership, hope the film will raise awareness and support for finding a cure for the disorder.

The details

During the Seattle shows, Vedder accompanied himself on acoustic guitar, electric guitar, and piano, performing both Pearl Jam favorites and emotional solo songs like "Just Breathe." The concerts were part of a fundraiser to support EB research, a cause that is deeply personal for the Vedders after learning that Jill's childhood friend had a son born with the disorder.

  • The Seattle shows took place in October 2023.
  • The first Pearl Jam show was 33 years earlier, down the street at The Off Ramp.

The players

Eddie Vedder

The lead singer of the band Pearl Jam, who performed emotional solo shows in Seattle to raise money for epidermolysis bullosa (EB) research.

Jill Vedder

The chairwoman of the EB Research Partnership and Eddie Vedder's wife, who has attended funerals for children lost to the disorder and is deeply committed to the cause.

Bruce Springsteen

The legendary musician who gave Eddie Vedder advice about the power of vulnerability when performing solo, which stuck with Vedder and influenced his approach.

Ryan Fullmer

The co-founder of the EB Research Partnership, whose son was born with the disorder, inspiring Jill Vedder's involvement.

Michael Hund

The CEO of the EB Research Partnership, who joined the organization in 2017 and has helped drive its progress.

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What they’re saying

“I remember kind of swimming through it and almost having a psychedelic experience. I was so emotional, but I had to keep it together just to play properly.”

— Eddie Vedder (wbal.com)

“The kids are feeling seen and understood. They realize they're not something to fear, and that they're not contagious. The only thing contagious about these kids is their hope.”

— Eddie Vedder (wbal.com)

“Every time I spend time with these families, I end up in tears because it's hard to keep it together.”

— Jill Vedder, Chairwoman, EB Research Partnership (wbal.com)

“Now we're using that patience once again... You learn about the science, but also about the scientists, their drive, devotion, and the toll it takes. It's more than passion; it's a commitment to care and persevere.”

— Eddie Vedder (wbal.com)

“One small but powerful action, like a butterfly flapping its wings, can build enough force to create a monsoon halfway around the world. That's the journey of this organization.”

— Michael Hund, CEO, EB Research Partnership (wbal.com)

What’s next

The EB Research Partnership plans to continue funding research and raising awareness for the rare skin disorder, with the goal of finding effective treatments and eventually a cure.

The takeaway

Eddie Vedder's emotional solo performances and the personal stories featured in the Netflix documentary "Matter of Time" highlight the power of vulnerability and the importance of perseverance in the fight against rare and debilitating diseases like epidermolysis bullosa.