Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron exits band after 27 Years; rock group calls him one of their 'first musical heroes'

Matt Cameron has left the legendary rock band Pearl Jam after nearly a three-decade-long association with the legendary group. Cameron, 62, announced his exit from the band in an Instagram post on Monday, July 7, 2025. Cameron joined the band in 1998 on their Yield Tour after spending over a decade with Soundgarden. “After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” he wrote on Instagram.

“Much love and respect to Jeff [Ament], Ed [Vedder], Mike [McCready] and Stone [Gossard] for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, one filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter,” he further stated.

“I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart. Peace and Love, Matt Cameron,” he continued.

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In a statement issued following the announcement, the Grammy-winning band described Cameron as "one of our first musical heroes." “From being one of our first musical heroes. In the bands Skinyard and the mighty Soundgarden to playing on our first demos in 1990, Matt Cameron has been a singular and true powerhouse of a musician and drummer,” Pearl Jam said.

“He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings. It was a deeply important chapter for 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,” the rock band added.

Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998 on their Yield Tour after spending more than a decade with Soundgarden. When Soundgarden reunited in 2010, Cameron was a member of both groups, though Soundgarden later disbanded after lead singer Chris Cornell died in 2017. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of both bands.

The star musician and drummer had in the past played on early Pearl Jam demos of songs like “Alive” and “Evenflow” before Vedder joined in 1990, according to Rolling Stone. He also played drums for Temple of the Dog, which featured members of Pearl Jam and Soundgarden.