Stone Gossard is an American musician, songwriter, and producer best known as the rhythm guitarist and founding member of the Seattle-based rock bands Pearl Jam and Temple of the Dog. He was born on July 20, 1966, in Seattle, Washington.
Gossard’s interest in music began at a young age, and he started playing guitar in his teenage years. In the mid-1980s, he became a part of the Seattle music scene and formed the band Green River with fellow musicians Jeff Ament and Mark Arm. The band is often credited as one of the pioneers of the grunge genre, and they released two EPs before breaking up in 1987.
After Green River disbanded, Gossard and Ament formed the band Mother Love Bone with vocalist Andrew Wood. The band released one album, “Apple,” in 1990, but Wood died of a drug overdose shortly before its release. In tribute to Wood, Gossard, Ament, and members of Soundgarden formed Temple of the Dog and released a self-titled album in 1991.
Gossard then joined forces with singer Eddie Vedder, who had recently moved to Seattle, to form Pearl Jam. The band released their debut album, “Ten,” in 1991, which became one of the most successful albums of the grunge era. Gossard continued to play rhythm guitar and contribute songwriting to Pearl Jam throughout their career, which has spanned over three decades and produced over ten studio albums.
In addition to his work with Pearl Jam and Temple of the Dog, Gossard has also been involved in various side projects and collaborations over the years. He has released three solo albums, “Bayleaf” (2001), “Moonlander” (2013), and “Every Other Day” (2021), and has worked as a producer for several bands, including Brad and The Afghan Whigs.
Gossard’s guitar work is characterized by his use of heavy, distorted riffs and solos, often with a bluesy or psychedelic influence. He is also known for his songwriting skills, having contributed some of Pearl Jam’s most iconic songs, such as “Alive,” “Black,” and “Daughter.”
In addition to his musical career, Gossard has been involved in various philanthropic and environmental causes. He co-founded the non-profit organization Vitalogy Foundation in 2006, which supports various charitable and environmental organizations, and has been a vocal advocate for climate action.
In summary, Stone Gossard is a highly influential and respected figure in the Seattle music scene and the wider rock genre. He has played a key role in the success of both Pearl Jam and Temple of the Dog, and his guitar work and songwriting have had a significant impact on the grunge sound.