On September 2, 1993, Pearl Jam performed "Animal" at the MTV Video Music Awards, a pivotal moment in the band's trajectory. This live performance came shortly after the release of their second studio album, "Vs.," which debuted in October 1993. "Vs." was notable for its rapid commercial success, breaking records by selling over 950,000 copies in its first week, reflecting the band's skyrocketing popularity following their debut album, "Ten." The performance at the MTV VMAs showcased the raw energy and intensity of Pearl Jam's sound, further cementing their status as one of the leading grunge bands of the era. Additionally, Pearl Jam used the platform to voice their discontent with the music industry and the commercialization of rock music, reinforcing their commitment to artistic integrity, which would become a hallmark of their career.