Pearl Jam Reimagines Ted Nugent’s ‘Stranglehold’ as Anti-Gun Song


Pearl Jam put their own spin on Ted Nugent’s 1975 single “Stranglehold,” changing the lyrics to make it an anti-gun anthem.

The moment took place during Pearl Jam’s concert in Baltimore on Thursday, Sept. 12. Roughly halfway through their set, guitarist Mike McCready launched into “Stranglehold”’s familiar opening riff.

Frontman Eddie Vedder then joined in, emphatically singing: “I don’t own a gun, I don’t ever want to own a gun / I don’t own a gun, never want to own a gun.” After repeating variations of the phrase several times, the tones of “Stanglehold” faded out. Pearl Jam soon launched into one of their own classics, “Even Flow.” Fan-shot footage of the rendition can be seen below.

READ MORE: Pearl Jam Albums Ranked Worst to Best

Ted Nugent Is a Vocal Gun Advocate

“Stranglehold” was the first track on Nugent’s self-titled debut album. The tune’s famous guitar solo is widely regarded as one of the greatest in rock history.

Nugent is an outspoken right wing conservative, who often advocates for the rights of gun ownership. He even took his love for the weapons on television, briefly hosting the series Ted Nugent’s Gun Country on the Discovery Channel. At the time of the show’s debut, Nugent declared that the “American Dream is measured in ballistics.” In 2021, the polarizing rocker released a pro-gun song called “Come and Take It.”

READ MORE: Top 10 Ted Nugent Songs

Pearl Jam, meanwhile, has maintained liberal political leanings throughout the band’s career. In recent years the band has spoken out against former president Donald Trump and cautioned fans on the perils of global warming. In 2023, the grunge group lent its support to Everytown, a non-profit organization fighting to end gun violence.

“No one should live in fear of gun violence—in their schools, neighborhoods, or anywhere,” Pearl Jam tweeted at the time. “Learn more about secure gun storage and be a part of the solution.”

Watch Pearl Jam Perform Their Version of ‘Stranglehold’

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Edwin Brian

Edwin Brian is a dedicated music journalist who brings a unique perspective to the world of alternative rock. With a deep love for the genre, Edwin's articles cover everything from album reviews and band reunions to music history and the evolution of rock icons. His writing often revisits forgotten gems from the past while also shedding light on emerging artists, offering readers a mix of nostalgia and discovery. Whether he’s diving into Travis Barker’s tour stories or compiling essential rock albums, Edwin’s work captures the raw energy and enduring appeal of alternative music.

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