Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron departs after 27 years with the band

Drummer Matt Cameron announces his departure from Pearl Jam after 27 years, reflecting on his iconic journey.

Matt Cameron, the drummer who helped define Pearl Jam’s sound for nearly three decades, has announced his departure from the band. After 27 years of playing with the legendary rock group, Cameron revealed his decision to step down in a heartfelt message shared on social media.

“I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” Cameron said in his statement, expressing his gratitude to the band’s members—Jeff Ament, Ed Vedder, Mike McCready, and Stone Gossard—for welcoming him into the fold in 1998. He acknowledged the friendships and experiences the band provided, thanking fans, crew, and staff worldwide for their support over the years.

 

 

 

 

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In a joint statement, Pearl Jam paid tribute to Cameron’s contributions, calling him "a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer." The band highlighted his role in shaping the group’s live performances and studio albums, with special mention of his early musical legacy with Soundgarden and other notable projects. “He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music,” the band stated.

Cameron first joined Pearl Jam after drummer Jack Irons’ departure, becoming the longest-serving drummer in the band’s history. Beyond his drumming skills, he also contributed backing vocals and wrote several songs. Cameron’s legacy includes working on some of the band's biggest hits, including “Last Kiss,” which reached No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Pearl Jam has enjoyed major commercial success, landing 14 songs on the Billboard Hot 100 and securing 13 top 10 albums on the Billboard 200. Cameron’s departure marks the end of a significant era for the group.