Pearl Jam Drummer Matt Cameron Exits After Nearly Three Decades
Legendary Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron exits the iconic grunge band after 27 years. The group will now search for a new stickman.
Matt Cameron, the stalwart drummer for rock giants Pearl Jam, announced his departure from the band on Monday, ending a nearly three-decade tenure. His exit leaves a significant void in the iconic grunge rock group, prompting an immediate search for a new stickman.
Matt Cameron’s Announcement
Cameron shared the news via Instagram, stating he had taken his “final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam.” He expressed profound gratitude to bandmates Jeff Ament, Eddie Vedder, Mike McCready, and Stone Gossard for the opportunity that began in 1998, describing it as “a lifetime, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter.” The longtime drummer did not provide a specific reason for his decision.
Matt Cameron shared his departure news on Instagram, thanking his bandmates.
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A Legacy of Rhythmic Power
Cameron’s tenure with Pearl Jam began in 1998, following the departure of previous drummer Jack Irons. His contributions have been instrumental in shaping the band’s sound and live presence for more than 27 years. The remaining members of Pearl Jam — McCready, Ament, Gossard, and Vedder — issued a separate statement acknowledging Cameron’s immense impact.
“He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings,” the band’s statement read. “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.”
Cameron’s Storied Career
A San Diego native, Cameron moved to Seattle in 1983, quickly becoming a fixture in the burgeoning grunge scene. He played with early bands like Bam Bam and Skin Yard before joining Soundgarden in 1986. His impactful drumming anchored Soundgarden for over a decade until their initial split, after which he transitioned to working with Pearl Jam, eventually becoming a permanent member. Learn more about the history of Seattle’s grunge movement.
Beyond his work with these legendary groups, Cameron has explored diverse musical avenues. He collaborated with Zach Hill and Janet Weiss on the 2013 album “Drumgasm” and released his solo album, “Cavedweller,” in 2017. These projects highlight his versatile musical artistry beyond the confines of his primary bands.
The Future for Pearl Jam
The departure of an integral member like Cameron marks a pivotal moment for Pearl Jam. The band now faces the challenging task of finding a new drummer who can honor the group’s established legacy while also contributing to its future direction. This Pearl Jam lineup change will undoubtedly be a topic of intense discussion among fans and critics alike, as the band prepares to enter its next chapter without its longtime Soundgarden drummer. Explore other iconic band lineup changes. The search for a replacement will determine the rhythm section that propels Pearl Jam’s future live performances and studio recordings. Discover more about Eddie Vedder’s influence on rock music.
