After nearly three decades of laying down the rhythm, drummer Matt Cameron has officially stepped down from Pearl Jam. The 62-year-old musician shared the news on social media, bringing an end to an influential 27-year run and marking a significant moment for one of rock’s most enduring bands. His departure closes a vital chapter that saw him shape the band’s sound and identity.
Cameron’s journey with Pearl Jam began in 1998, stepping in as a temporary fill-in for Jack Irons. However, his undeniable talent and natural chemistry quickly made him an indispensable member. His rhythmic precision and power made their studio debut on the 2000 album Binaural, a release that helped usher in a fresh era and brought much-needed consistency to a band that had cycled through several drummers in its early years.
Beyond his contributions to Pearl Jam, Cameron was already a highly respected figure in the music scene, having made a name for himself as the powerhouse drummer for Soundgarden, another pillar of Seattle’s grunge movement. His exceptional musicianship and professionalism were further highlighted by his ability to juggle commitments with both bands between 2010 and 2017.
Cameron’s final act with the band was their recent tour promoting their 12th album, Dark Matter. His departure signifies more than just a change in personnel; Pearl Jam loses a key architect of their modern identity, whose drumming helped define their sound for a generation of fans.