Quick Read
- Matt Cameron announced his departure from Pearl Jam after 27 years.
- Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998 following his tenure with Soundgarden.
- He contributed to all Pearl Jam albums from 2000’s Binaural to 2024’s Dark Matter.
- Pearl Jam expressed gratitude and called him a ‘true powerhouse of a musician.’
- Cameron hinted at future projects, leaving fans eager for what’s next.
After an illustrious tenure spanning nearly three decades, drummer Matt Cameron has announced his departure from Pearl Jam. On July 7, 2025, Cameron and the band released statements confirming the end of his 27-year journey with the iconic grunge group. Widely regarded as one of the most influential drummers in rock history, Cameron’s exit marks a significant moment in the band’s storied career.
The Journey of a Rock Legend
Matt Cameron first rose to prominence as the drummer for Soundgarden, a seminal grunge band that defined the Seattle music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Following Soundgarden’s initial breakup in 1997, Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998, replacing drummer Jack Irons. As Consequence reported, Cameron became an integral part of Pearl Jam’s sound, contributing to every album from 2000’s Binaural to 2024’s Dark Matter. His technical prowess and creative input helped shape the band’s evolution, blending powerful rhythms with intricate arrangements.
Over the years, Cameron also provided backing vocals and co-wrote several songs, cementing his role as more than just a drummer. Pearl Jam acknowledged his immense contributions in their farewell statement, describing him as “a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer” and highlighting his influence on their live shows and studio recordings.
A Heartfelt Goodbye
In his farewell statement, Matt Cameron expressed deep gratitude to his bandmates Jeff Ament, Ed Vedder, Mike McCready, and Stone Gossard. “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,” he wrote. Cameron also extended his thanks to the crew, staff, and fans worldwide, calling his journey with Pearl Jam “an incredible experience.” His heartfelt words resonated with fans and musicians alike, many of whom took to social media to share their appreciation for his contributions to rock music.
Pearl Jam, in turn, emphasized their enduring friendship with Cameron, stating, “He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music.” While the band has not yet announced a replacement, Cameron’s departure leaves a legacy that will be hard to match.
A Career of Hall of Fame Worthiness
Matt Cameron’s impact on rock music extends beyond his time with Pearl Jam. As a member of Soundgarden, he was instrumental in crafting the sound of hits like “Black Hole Sun” and “Spoonman.” Both Soundgarden and Pearl Jam have been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, making Cameron one of the few musicians to achieve this honor twice. According to Billboard, his work with other projects like Temple of the Dog and Skin Yard further solidifies his reputation as a versatile and groundbreaking artist.
Pearl Jam itself remains a cornerstone of the grunge movement, with a discography that includes chart-topping albums like Ten, Vs., and Vitalogy. The band has sold millions of records worldwide and continues to influence new generations of musicians. Cameron’s contributions during his 27 years with Pearl Jam will undoubtedly remain a pivotal chapter in their history.
What Lies Ahead
While Matt Cameron has not disclosed his future plans, his statement hinted at new opportunities on the horizon. “More to follow,” he teased, leaving fans eager to see what the next chapter of his career will bring. Whether through collaborations, solo projects, or other musical ventures, Cameron’s talent and passion ensure that his influence on the music world is far from over.
As for Pearl Jam, the band faces the challenge of moving forward without one of its longest-serving members. Their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of change has been a hallmark of their career, and fans are optimistic about their future endeavors.
Matt Cameron’s departure from Pearl Jam signifies the end of an era, but it also highlights a legacy of creativity, dedication, and excellence that will continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.