Pearl Jam Announce Departure of Drummer Matt Cameron

Drummer Matt Cameron has announced his departure from Pearl Jam after 27 years.

“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” Cameron said in a statement. “Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

“From being one of our first musical heroes in the bands Skinyard and the mighty Soundgarden, to playing on our first demos in 1990, Matt Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer,” Pearl Jam added in their own statement.

“He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings. It was a deeply important chapter for our group and we wish him well always. He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music.”

Cameron, 62, joined Pearl Jam in 1998 following Soundgarden’s initial breakup the year prior, replacing drummer Jack Irons. He has played on every Pearl Jam album from 2000’s Binaural through their latest record, 2024’s Dark Matter.