Eddie is a natural leader. Jeff and I have been very much in control of previous bands we've worked in. But the way Eddie grew into being the leader of this band was the most gradual, slow and respectful process that I've ever been involved in.

Gossard was asked to join Green River in order to allow Arm to concentrate exclusively on singing. McCready said in 2006 "Even though there are three guitars I think there's maybe more room now. It was released on the band's 1998 fan club Christmas single; however by popular demand the cover was released to the public as a single in 1999.

Gossard has also been a member of the side project band Brad. Gossard is also known for his work prior to Pearl Jam with the 1980s Seattle Washington-based grunge rock bands Green River and Mother Love Bone and he has made contributions to the music industry as a producer and owner of a record label and a recording studio. In 2001 Gossard released his first solo album Bayleaf.