The song follows a "near-Messianic youth" who is misunderstood and attacked for his message but ultimately finds freedom and transcendence. It emphasizes rising above negativity and continuing to "give your love away" despite the cruelty of others.
The song's melody and riff bear a striking resemblance to Led Zeppelin’s "Going to California" . McCready has openly acknowledged this, stating that Zeppelin was a definite influence and jokingly calling it a "rip-off". Lyrics and Meaning Pearl Jam - Given to Fly (Official Audio)
The single reached the Top 10 in Finland, Norway, and Spain, and the Top 20 in the UK and Australia. The song follows a "near-Messianic youth" who is
It topped the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for six weeks and peaked at #21 on the Billboard Hot 100 . McCready has openly acknowledged this, stating that Zeppelin
The main riff utilizes an alternate DADGAD tuning , which provides a droning, open resonance often found in folk-rock.