Drummer Matt Cameron is leaving Pearl Jam, the band he joined in 1998. This announcement was confirmed by Cameron and the American band on Monday.
In a social media post, Matt Cameron, aged 69, expressed gratitude for what he called an “incredible journey” and “27 fantastic years” with Pearl Jam.
“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps as the drummer of 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 a lifetime opportunity filled with friendships, art, challenges, and laughter,” he continued.
The musician ended his message by stating that “more is to come,” but did not disclose the reasons behind his departure.
“I am eternally grateful to the crew and fans worldwide. 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 and issued a brief note of thanks.
“From being one of our earliest 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 truly powerful musician and drummer. He powered 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 always 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 has had three other drummers: Dave Krusen, Matt Chamberlain, and Dave Abbruzzese.
Considered a significant figure in the rock world, Cameron was also recognized for his work with the band Soundgarden, where he played from 1986 to 1997 and from 2010 to 2017.
During his 27 years with Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron was part of the recording of albums including ‘Binaural’ (2000), ‘Riot Act’ (2002), ‘Pearl Jam’ (2006), ‘Backspacer’ (2009), ‘Lightning Bolt’ (2013), ‘Gigaton’ (2020), and ‘Dark Matter’ (2024).
The replacement for the Californian drummer has yet to be announced. The group has only one scheduled performance soon, at the Ohana Festival in the United States, on September 26.
Fronted 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, they have returned multiple times to the country, selling out dates both solo and at festivals. Their last performance in Portugal was in 2024, headlining the NOS Alive festival at Passeio Marítimo de Algés.
