In May 2010, when Pearl Jam performed "Better Man" live at Madison Square Garden, they were in a notable phase of their career, having established themselves as a pivotal band in rock music since their debut. Before this concert, they released the album "Backspacer" in 2009, which was their ninth studio album, receiving considerable acclaim and marking a return to a more straightforward rock sound compared to their earlier, more experimental work. This live performance occurred during the "Backspacer" tour, highlighting the band's strong connection with their audience and their ability to invigorate classic hits like "Better Man" from their 1994 album "Vitalogy." The concert at Madison Square Garden is particularly significant as it showcases the band's sustained popularity and their impressive ability to captivate large audiences, further solidifying their legacy in rock history.