Some news hits you right in the snare drum. After nearly three decades behind the kit, Matt Cameron has officially parted ways with Pearl Jam. The band and Cameron announced the news today (July 7) on social media — and both statements are filled with admiration, emotion, and a whole lot of heart.
Here’s what Matt Cameron had to say:
“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, one 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. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
And Pearl Jam followed up with a tribute of their own:
“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.”
From Seattle’s grunge roots to global stages, Matt Cameron was more than just the guy in the back keeping the beat — he was the beat. After Soundgarden dissolved in 1997, he got the call that changed everything.
From there, Cameron jumped into Pearl Jam’s touring cycle in 1998, originally as a fill-in after Jack Irons’ departure:
That “fill-in” gig turned into a 27-year run. Cameron first appeared on Binaural (2000), and stuck with the band through every studio album since. Even after Soundgarden reunited in 2010, he juggled both bands with the finesse only a legend could manage.
With just one Pearl Jam show left on the calendar for 2025, the future is open — for Cameron, for Pearl Jam, and for fans who are still absorbing the news.