On Monday, Matt Cameron, the stalwart drummer of Pearl Jam, announced his departure from the band after an impressive three-decade-long journey. The 62-year-old musician made this poignant revelation in a heartfelt post on social media. "After 27 breathtaking years, I have taken my final strides off the drum riser that elevated Pearl Jam to greatness," Cameron emotionally shared. "My profound gratitude and admiration extend to Jeff, Ed, Mike, and Stone for welcoming me into the fold in 1998, granting me a life-defining opportunity that was rich with camaraderie, creativity, trials, and countless moments of hilarity." Cameron, however, refrained from disclosing the reason behind his exit.
In a collective statement posted across the band's social media platforms, Pearl Jam members paid tribute to Cameron, hailing him as an unparalleled and formidable musician. "Matt Cameron has been an indomitable force, driving the rhythm of Pearl Jam's live performances and studio recordings for the past 27 years. This chapter in our journey has been profoundly significant, and we extend our best wishes to him always," they expressed. The announcement did not hint at a successor to Cameron's throne.
Prior to joining Pearl Jam, Cameron spent over a decade behind the drums for Soundgarden. Although he wasn't a founding member of Pearl Jam and didn't contribute to their early albums that cemented their status as rock legends, he brought a much-needed consistency to the drum kit after the band had seen four drummers come and go since its inception. In 1998, he stepped in temporarily for Jack Irons, embarking on an extensive tour before making his studio debut with the band on their seminal album "Binaural" in 2000.
Just recently, Cameron wrapped up a year-long tour with Pearl Jam, celebrating the release of their 12th studio album, "Dark Matter." Born and bred in San Diego, Cameron relocated to Seattle just as the city's music scene was on the brink of global fame. Before joining Soundgarden, he was a member of the proto-grunge band Skin Yard. From 2010 to 2017, Cameron juggled his commitments with Pearl Jam and a reunited Soundgarden, demonstrating his unparalleled versatility and dedication to the music world.
