A song can bring people together. A song can create opportunities. A song can amplify voices that deserve to be heard. That’s the spirit behind “Better Believe,” the powerful new original collaboration between Eddie Vedder and young musicians from Chicago-based nonprofit Guitars Over Guns. Listen here.
Released today, “Better Believe” debuted during a live performance at the dedication of the Obama Presidential Center and is now available on major streaming platforms. The song represents a unique creative partnership that united students, mentors, educators and emerging artists through the shared language of music.
The project was made possible through the Obama Foundation, which brought Vedder and Guitars Over Guns together. Young musicians from the nonprofit collaborated with Audio Arts students and alumni from Columbia College Chicago, where the song was recorded, creating an environment that encouraged creativity, learning and artistic growth.
Co-written by Eddie Vedder, Giselle Castro, Andre “Add-2” Daniels, Jeremiah Fristoe, Mason Harris, Michael “Myskie” Hightower, Naomi Owens, Joy Viltz and Iya Waters, “Better Believe” reflects the collective voices and experiences of the artists involved. The result is a song built on collaboration, community and optimism.
Production duties were handled by Eddie Vedder, Andrew Watt, Andre “Add-2” Daniels and Paul LaMalfa, bringing together an accomplished team that balanced professional expertise with the energy and creativity of emerging talent. The recording also benefited from contributions by students and engineers throughout the production process, further highlighting the educational mission behind the project.
The performance lineup showcases a remarkable blend of established and rising voices. Vedder contributes lead vocals, guitar and background vocals alongside featured vocalists Joy Viltz, Giselle Castro, Naomi Owens, Michael “Myskie” Hightower and Mason Harris. Additional contributions come from Jeremiah Fristoe, Andre “Add-2” Daniels, Mark Anderson, Isabella Santillan, Ayden Smith, Cassidy Lee and Josh Klinghoffer.
Beyond the music itself, “Better Believe” carries a lasting impact. All royalties earned by Eddie Vedder and the song’s co-writers will directly benefit Guitars Over Guns, an arts-based youth development organization that uses music, mentorship and the arts to help young people build confidence, develop skills and expand future opportunities.
For decades, Vedder has used music as a vehicle for connection and community. “Better Believe” continues that tradition while placing young creators at the center of the story. The song celebrates the power of mentorship, collaboration and creative expression, proving that meaningful music can also create meaningful change.