NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MAY 03: Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam performs live on stage during the New … More
Matt Cameron, the longtime drummer for one of grunge’s most popular acts Pearl Jam, has announced he’ll be stepping away from the band. The news comes as quite a shock. Cameron has been the drummer for Pearl Jam since 1998 after he replaced the band’s previous drummer Jack Irons who left due to health issues. Since then, Cameron has contributed to every Pearl Jam Release since 1998’s Yield. Cameron issued the following statement on social media announcing his departure from Pearl Jam:
“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. 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.”
Pearl Jam has also commented on the matter stating:
“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.
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.
We love you Matt.”
As Pearl Jam note, Matt Cameron is also of course known for being the drummer for Soundgarden, another one of grunge’s biggest acts. There are no details that’ve been made public regarding why Cameron decided to part ways with Pearl Jam. Since Pearl Jam released their grammy nominated 2024 LP Dark Matter they had been actively touring in support of the record. Between the record’s release and now, Soundgarden was announced as one of the class of 2025 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees. The ceremony for the class of 2025 is taking place on November 8th, which Soundgarden will likely be performing at.