Matt Cameron, the powerhouse drummer for Pearl Jam, has officially parted ways with the band after an incredible 27-year tenure behind the kit.
In a surprising announcement that marks the end of an era in alternative rock history, Cameron, who joined the legendary Seattle rock group in 1998, shared a heartfelt statement on social media, expressing his gratitude and reflecting on nearly three decades of music, camaraderie, and unforgettable performances.
Matt Cameron Bids Farewell to Pearl Jam
Taking to his social platforms, Cameron 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, 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.”
Read the full statement below:
Cameron’s exit closes a significant chapter in Pearl Jam’s long and influential history, during which the drummer contributed not only to the band’s distinctive live energy but also to the evolution of their sound across multiple albums.
Pearl Jam Honors Matt Cameron’s Impact
In response to Cameron’s departure, Pearl Jam—now composed of bassist Jeff Ament, guitarists Stone Gossard and Mike McCready, and frontman Eddie Vedder—issued a touching tribute to their longtime bandmate.
“From being one of our first musical heroes in the bands Skin Yard 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,” the band stated.
They continued:
“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.”
Neither Cameron nor band members disclosed reasons for his departure. However, clues are pointed towards fatigue.
A Legendary Career: From Soundgarden to Pearl Jam
Before joining Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron was already a major figure in the Seattle music scene. He rose to prominence as the drummer for Soundgarden, another cornerstone band of the grunge era, where he played from 1986 until their initial disbandment in 1997. He later returned for the band’s reunion between 2010 and 2017.
Cameron also worked briefly with Queens of the Stone Age, though he never formally joined the group. His work across these influential bands has cemented his reputation as one of rock’s most versatile and technically gifted drummers.
Yet, it was his role in Pearl Jam that represented the longest and most consistent phase of his career. Since joining in 1998, Cameron contributed to multiple studio albums, including Binaural (2000), Riot Act (2002), Backspacer (2009), Lightning Bolt (2013), Gigaton (2020), and most recently, Dark Matter (2024).
The Dark Matter Era: A Final Flourish
Pearl Jam recently wrapped up their Dark Matter World Tour in May 2025, a global tour supporting their 12th studio album, Dark Matter. The tour marked the last time fans would see Cameron behind the drum kit with the band.
Producer Andrew Watt, who helmed the Dark Matter album, praised Cameron’s unmatched abilities in an interview with Rolling Stone in 2024:
“Matt Cameron is a fuckin’ drum god. Everyone just bows down to his ability and what he can do. No one else could sit down and play those drum parts. I’m so lucky to have the stems of the album. I’ve listened to it all the way through listening to just the drum track. That’s how much I love Matt Cameron.”
What’s Next?
While Cameron has not yet disclosed his future plans, his statement teased that “more [is] to follow,” hinting at the possibility of new musical ventures or collaborations in the near future.
The band has yet to announce a new drummer to fill his shoes. As the remaining members of Pearl Jam continue to carry the torch, they do so with deep respect and admiration for the drummer who helped fuel their sonic fire for nearly 30 years.
Matt Cameron may be stepping away, but his legacy will forever remain a part of Pearl Jam’s soul.
