Pearl Jam Drummer Matt Cameron Leaves Group After 27 Years

Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron has announced that he’s leaving the group after 27 years, releasing a statement thanking his former band mates and reflecting on his tenure with them.

“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” wrote Cameron. “Much love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the opportunity of a lifetime, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over. It’s been an incredible journey. More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart.”

The remaining group members — Eddie Vedder, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready and Jeff Ament — also published a statement thanking Cameron for his years in the collective. “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,” they 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.”