The drummer Matt Cameron is departing from Pearl Jam, a band he joined in 1998. This information was confirmed by both Cameron and the American band on Monday.
In a social media post, Matt Cameron, 69, expressed gratitude for what he described as an “incredible journey” and “27 fantastic years” with Pearl Jam.
“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my last steps as the drummer of the mighty Pearl Jam,” he began.
“Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike, and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, filled with friendships, art, challenges, and laughter,” he added.
The musician concluded the message by hinting that “more is to come,” without disclosing the reasons for his departure.
“I am eternally grateful to the team and fans around the world. It has been an incredible journey. More is to come. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Peace and love,” he concluded.
Pearl Jam shared the drummer’s message on their official page, along with a brief note of thanks.
“From being one of our earliest musical heroes in bands like Skin Yard and the mighty Soundgarden to playing on our first demos in 1990, Matt Cameron has been a unique and truly powerful musician and drummer. He powered the last 27 years of Pearl Jam’s live shows and studio recordings. It was a deeply important chapter for our group, and we always wish him the best,” the band stated.
“We will deeply miss him and he will forever be our friend in art and music. We love you, Matt,” the group concluded.
The musician joined Pearl Jam in 1998 following the departure of drummer Jack Irons. The group previously had three other drummers – Dave Krusen, Matt Chamberlain, and Dave Abbruzzese.
Widely regarded as a significant figure in the rock world, Cameron was also known for his work with the band Soundgarden, where he played from 1986 to 1997 and from 2010 until 2017.
During his 27 years with Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron participated in the recording of albums ‘Binaural’ (2000), ‘Riot Act’ (2002), ‘Pearl Jam’ (2006), ‘Backspacer’ (2009), ‘Lightning Bolt’ (2013), ‘Gigaton’ (2020), and ‘Dark Matter’ (2024).
The replacement for the California drummer has not yet been announced. The group has only one upcoming show scheduled, at the Ohana Festival in the United States, on September 26.
Led by Eddie Vedder, the band was formed in 1990. Pearl Jam first performed in Portugal in 1996, at the Pavilhão Dramático de Cascais. Over the years, the band has returned to Portugal multiple times, selling out shows both solo and at festivals. Their most recent performance in Portugal was in 2024, headlining the NOS Alive festival at Passeio Marítimo de Algés.
