After 27 Years, Matt Cameron Says Goodbye to Pearl Jam

One of rock’s most consistent and beloved lineups is changing. After nearly three decades behind the drum kit, Matt Cameron has officially parted ways with Pearl Jam. The announcement came as a surprise to many fans, who have come to associate Cameron’s tight, thunderous style with the band’s powerful live sound and studio recordings.

Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998 and played a vital role in shaping their evolution across multiple albums and tours. Now, after 27 years, he’s stepping away, leaving a major shift in the band’s dynamic.

“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,” Cameron wrote in a heartfelt message on Pearl Jam’s official Instagram. “One filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter.”

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Why is Matt Cameron leaving Pearl Jam now?

As of now, there’s no official reason given for the departure. Cameron himself has remained private about the decision. The band, however, released a touching statement confirming his exit.

“Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer,” the band said. “He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings.”

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They added, “It was a deeply important chapter in 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.”

That final line says a lot. There’s clearly no bad blood here — just a major moment of change for one of rock’s most enduring acts.

Where did Matt Cameron’s legacy begin?

Before joining Pearl Jam, Cameron was already a name in the rock world. He joined Soundgarden in 1986 and appeared on all of the band’s studio albums, including their landmark records Badmotorfinger and Superunknown. His drumming was a key part of the Seattle grunge sound that defined a generation.

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When Soundgarden broke up in the late ’90s, Pearl Jam tapped him to join their lineup. Cameron filled big shoes and never looked back — contributing to albums like Binaural, Riot Act, Pearl Jam, Backspacer, and Gigaton, and bringing a steady creative presence through shifting musical landscapes.

What happens to Pearl Jam now?

As of now, Pearl Jam has not named a replacement drummer. The band is still made up of core members Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, and Eddie Vedder.

Pearl Jam was formed in Seattle in 1990 and became a cornerstone of ’90s rock alongside Nirvana, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains. With anthems like “Alive,” “Even Flow,” and “Jeremy,” the band helped define the decade. Unlike many of their peers, they managed to stay together and evolve, earning a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017.

Cameron’s departure marks the end of an era, but it’s clear the legacy remains intact.

Whether fans first heard him with Soundgarden or grew to love his work with Pearl Jam, one thing’s certain — Matt Cameron’s drums shaped the soundtrack of a generation. And now, as he steps away from the spotlight, he does so with the respect and admiration of fellow musicians and fans around the world.