We don't have the discipline to sit down and teach each other parts, so you're writing simple chord changes that someone else can follow without having to take breaks to learn them.

"[2] The line "I wish I was the full moon shining off your Camaro's hood" references the car that belonged to Beth Liebling, Vedder's wife at the time.

[3] When played live, the song mirrors its roots as an improv, with Vedder changing the lyrics depending on his mood.

"Wishlist" was released as a single in 1998 with a previously unreleased B-side titled "U", of which an alternate version can also be found on the compilation album Lost Dogs (2003).

Performances of the song are also included on the DVDs Single Video Theory, Touring Band 2000, and Live at the Garden.

On September 26, 2021, during his 2021 Ohana Fest solo performance, Vedder dedicated the song to the brothers Followill of Kings of Leon, whose mother died the night before, and were originally set to appear at the festival; as well to comedian and SNL alumn Norm Macdonald, who died a week earlier, and Vedder considered a friend.