Eddie Vedder Releases Studio Version of Tom Petty’s "Room at the Top"
Legendary Pearl Jam frontman Eddie Vedder has finally released a studio version of "Room at the Top," a Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers song that he has been covering live for years. The song is featured on the soundtrack to Apple TV+’s upcoming series "Bad Monkey," starring Vince Vaughn, which explores the life of a former police detective in Florida.
The entire soundtrack consists of Petty covers, with Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, Marcus King, Larkin Poe, and more handling their own interpretations of the late singer-songwriter’s classic songs. Vedder’s new recording can be heard below:
Eddie Vedder’s Enduring Love for Tom Petty
Vedder has long been an admirer of Petty’s work, having covered several of his songs in concert and occasionally collaborating with members of the Heartbreakers. In 2022, he performed "Room at the Top" and "The Waiting" with guitarist Mike Campbell at the Ohana Music Festival. During the performance, Vedder honored Petty’s memory, reflecting on his untimely passing.
"In a short time, tomorrow will be five years since we all lost this guy [Petty] that was a part of our lives," he said, addressing the crowd (via Rolling Stone). "I think about him all the time, as we all do. I keep reminding myself how grateful we can be because we still have his voice in our heads, and the songs are in us. We can play them loud, and we can still hear him."
The Story Behind "Bad Monkey"
The "Bad Monkey" soundtrack, produced by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ own Mike Campbell, serves as the backdrop for the upcoming series, which delves into the life of a former police detective struggling to adapt to civilian life. The show is a tribute to Petty’s legacy, featuring a unique selection of his songs that add to the narrative.
The Lasting Impact of Tom Petty
Tom Petty left an indelible mark on the music industry, and his passing in 2017 was mourned by fans and fellow artists around the world. Vedder, as well as the many musicians featured on the "Bad Monkey" soundtrack, has continued to honor his memory through live performances and tribute songs. Petty’s music remains an integral part of American rock and roll, with songs like "Room at the Top" serving as testaments to his enduring talent and legacy.
Conclusion
The studio version of "Room at the Top" is a welcome addition to Vedder’s extensive catalog of covers and tribute songs. As the series "Bad Monkey" prepares to debut on Apple TV+, fans are reminded of Tom Petty’s remarkable legacy, and the ongoing impact he has had on the music world. For those who grew up on his iconic songs, it serves as a poignant reminder of his untimely passing and the memories they shared with his music.
FAQs
- What is the title of the TV series that features Eddie Vedder’s recording of "Room at the Top"?
Answer: The title of the series is "Bad Monkey."
- What is the storyline of "Bad Monkey" TV series?
Answer: The series follows a former police detective as he navigates the challenges of civilian life.
- Who else is featured on the "Bad Monkey" soundtrack, along with Jason Isbell, Marcus King, Larkin Poe, and Eddie Vedder?
Answer: The soundtrack includes a number of other artists who have recorded their own covers of Tom Petty’s classic songs.
- How many years have passed since Tom Petty’s passing?
Answer: As of 2023, it has been roughly six years since Tom Petty’s passing.
- What was the occasion of Eddie Vedder’s 2022 performance with Mike Campbell?
Answer: The performance was a tribute to Tom Petty at the Ohana Music Festival, with Vedder covering Petty’s song "Room at the Top" and "The Waiting" with Campbell.
