Long-standing drummer of Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron, recently announced that he was leaving the band after being their drummer since the late 90s. Cameron joined the grunge rock band in 1998 following the break-up of his former group, Soundgarden. Of the four drummers to be a part of Pearl Jam, Cameron’s career with the group has been the longest. Though, today, July 7, 2025, Matt Cameron’s career with the band has come to an end.
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On Instagram, Cameron and Pearl Jam both made official statements regarding the news. In the post, Cameron wrote, “After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. 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. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”
On the same post, the band collectively added, “From being one of our first musical heroes in the bands Skinyard 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. 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.”
A Brief Look Into Matt Cameron’s 27 Years With Pearl Jam
After Matt Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998, the group had two albums grace the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200. In addition to helping Pearl Jam garner two No. 1 albums, Cameron also helped write the Billboard Hot 100 single “The Fixer” and played drums on the No. 2 single “Last Kiss”.
During his 27 years with Pearl Jam, Cameron and the band were nominated for four Grammy Awards. Lastly, Matt Cameron and Pearl Jam were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017.
Photo by Jeff Kravitz/FilmMagic
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