Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron departs after 27 years. The grunge icon shared the news in a heartfelt message. The band has not named a replacement.
Drummer Announces Departure After Historic Tenure
Pearl Jam’s longtime drummer, Matt Cameron, announced his departure from the band on July 7, ending a 27-year run that shaped the group’s sound and stability. Cameron made the announcement through the band’s social media platforms, thanking his bandmates, crew, and global fans.
“More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart,” Cameron wrote.
Career Spanned Key Moments in Grunge History
Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998 after a successful decade with Soundgarden. He was brought in to replace Jack Irons and quickly became a cornerstone of Pearl Jam’s lineup—serving as their only studio drummer since the Binaural album in 2000.
He previously played with Soundgarden from 1986 to 1997 and rejoined them in 2010 before their final disbandment in 2017. His career bridged two of Seattle’s most influential rock bands, helping define the sound of 1990s grunge.
Band Members Praise Cameron’s Contribution
Pearl Jam’s remaining members—Eddie Vedder, Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, and Mike McCready—expressed admiration and gratitude in a joint statement.
“Matt Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse… He propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings. He will be deeply missed,” they said.
They also acknowledged his early involvement with the group, noting he contributed drums to demos before officially joining.
Canadian Fans Recall Legendary Performances
Pearl Jam has toured Canada extensively over the years, with Cameron behind the kit at shows in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary, and Montreal. Canadian fans responded with emotion and gratitude online.
“He’s been part of every show I’ve seen since 2000. This one hurts,” wrote a fan from Winnipeg on Reddit’s r/PearlJam community.
No Successor Named Amid Tour Conclusion
The announcement follows the band’s recent Dark Matter tour, supporting their twelfth studio album. Cameron completed the tour before making his decision public. As of now, Pearl Jam has not named a replacement or revealed plans for future live performances.
This marks a significant shift in the band’s history, as Cameron was its most enduring drummer and the only one to appear on all studio albums since 2000.
Hall of Fame Recognition Still Ahead
Despite his departure, Cameron’s career remains decorated. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 with Pearl Jam, alongside original drummer Dave Krusen. This fall, he is scheduled to be inducted again—this time as a member of Soundgarden.
The induction ceremony will take place in November in Cleveland, marking another milestone in the drummer’s storied legacy.
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