Veteran drummer Matt Cameron has announced his departure from Pearl Jam, ending a long-standing collaboration that began in 1998, when he joined the band during the Yield tour and became their full-time drummer.
In a heartfelt statement, Cameron thanked Eddie Vedder, Mike McCready, Stone Gossard, and Jeff Ament, highlighting that his time with the band was filled with “friendship, artistry, challenges, and laughter.” He expressed deep gratitude for an “incredible journey” and mutual respect that he hopes will endure.
Pearl Jam reciprocated with praise, calling Cameron “a singular and powerful musician” responsible for driving “27 years of live shows and studio recordings.” They said he would be “deeply missed” and would always remain “our friend in art and music.”
Cameron contributed to every studio album from Binaural (2000) to Dark Matter (2024) and was integral to the band’s sound. His prior work with Soundgarden earned him a second induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame—his first was with Pearl Jam in 2017.
Although a replacement has not yet been announced, Pearl Jam prepares to move forward, building on the strong foundations Cameron helped shape. Fans await the next chapter in the band’s evolution.