Eddie Vedder serenades David Letterman with ‘Better Man,’ pops guitar string

David Letterman has entered his final three days as host of The Late Show, and his guests are each presenting their own version of a proper goodbye.

Pearl Jam’s Eddie Vedder, alongside Paul Shaffer and the CBS Orchestra, bid his own farewell Monday night with a memorable performance of the classic hit, “Better Man.”

Before introducing the artist, Letterman noted that Vedder has been on the show multiple times and even tried a brief bout of stand-up comedy. “I think that will probably be the highlight of the man’s career,” he joked.

Beginning with soft, melodic vocals paired with Shaffer at the piano, the song then jumped into gear as the pianist switched to an echoing organ and the orchestra began its presentation. Vedder played so hard that he popped a guitar string halfway through the song, but did not stop.

The end of the Pearl Jam hit was complete after a striking solo by CBS Orchestra guitarist Sid McGinnis.

Letterman will sign off for good from The Late Show Wednesday, May 20. Monday night’s episode also featured Tom Hanks and a funny preview of the lead’s post-host life.

Jimmy Fallon of the competing Tonight Show also tipped his hat to the retiring television personality.

“This show and what late night has become is a result of him playing with the genre and experimenting and exploring,” he said. “I, like every kid who grew up watching him, will miss him.”

upi.com