Matt Cameron, the drummer for Pearl Jam for 27 years, has announced his departure from the iconic rock band.
Cameron shared the news in an Instagram post on Monday but did not provide a specific reason for leaving. “After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” he wrote. “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.”
The remaining members of Pearl Jam—bassist Jeff Ament, vocalist Eddie Vedder, and guitarists Mike McCready and Stone Gossard—released their own statement honoring Cameron’s long tenure.
“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,” the band stated. “He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music. We love you Matt.”
A San Diego native, Cameron became a pivotal figure in the Seattle grunge scene after moving there in 1983. Before his tenure with Pearl Jam, he was the drummer for the legendary band Soundgarden from 1986 until their initial split in 1997, and also played with groups like Bam Bam and Skin Yard. He joined Pearl Jam in 1998, replacing drummer Jack Irons.
Beyond his work with major bands, Cameron has pursued other musical projects, including a 2013 collaboration with Zach Hill and Janet Weiss on the album “Drumgasm” and his 2017 solo release, “Cavedweller.”
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