After nearly three decades behind the kit, Matt Cameron has officially parted ways with Pearl Jam — and if you’re not feeling a little emotional about it, check your pulse.
In a heartfelt statement shared today (July 7), Cameron wrote: “I’ve taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” before thanking the band, crew, and fans “from the bottom of my heart.” He promised more to come, but the message was clear: an era is over.
Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998, stepping in after Jack Irons left mid-‘Yield’ tour. What was meant to be a fill-in gig became a 27-year tenure, helping drive some of the band’s most intense, dynamic records — including Riot Act, Backspacer and their latest, Dark Matter. Let’s not forget, this is the same guy who laid the rhythmic foundation for Soundgarden’s heaviest moments. A grunge god, quietly holding it all down.
Pearl Jam themselves responded with a tribute of their own: “He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings… We love you Matt.” You could feel the weight in those words — this wasn’t just a lineup change, this was family saying goodbye.
Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: Foo Fighters. Rumours are flying again that Cameron might be jumping behind the kit for Dave Grohl & co, who just celebrated their 30th anniversary and are currently without a drummer after parting ways with Josh Freese. Cameron had previously denied the talk, but his exit from PJ and the Foos’ looming Asia and Mexico dates have speculation back in overdrive.
Whether or not he joins Foo Fighters, Cameron leaves Pearl Jam with a legacy most drummers would kill for. He wasn’t flashy — he was steady, powerful, and essential. The backbone of one of rock’s most enduring bands.
And as he bows out, it’s not just the end of a chapter for Pearl Jam. It’s the closing beat of a rhythm that carried an entire generation.
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