A monumental era in rock music has concluded as drummer Matt Cameron bids farewell to Pearl Jam after 27 years. The 62-year-old musician made the announcement on social media, bringing to an end his nearly three-decade-long tenure with the iconic band and marking a significant moment for their devoted fanbase.
Cameron initially joined Pearl Jam in 1998 as a temporary replacement for Jack Irons during a tour. His exceptional skill and chemistry with the band quickly transformed a fill-in role into a permanent one. He made his official studio debut on the critically acclaimed 2000 album Binaural, providing the consistent rhythmic foundation that the band had sought after cycling through multiple drummers in their formative years.
Before his influential run with Pearl Jam, Cameron had already achieved widespread recognition as the drummer for Soundgarden, a pioneering force in the Seattle grunge scene. Remarkably, his career saw him performing with both grunge giants simultaneously between 2010 and 2017, a testament to his legendary status and enduring impact on the genre.
His final performances with Pearl Jam were on the recent tour supporting their 12th studio album, Dark Matter. Cameron’s departure closes a vital chapter in Pearl Jam’s history, one defined by his powerful drumming, steadfast presence, and invaluable contributions to their distinctive sound.