An iconic ‘90s rock band will be searching for a new drummer after the exit of its longtime stickman.
Matt Cameron announced via Instagram Monday that he has left Pearl Jam after almost three decades with the group.
“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” the post read. “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.”
The drummer did not give a specific reason for his departure.
Cameron has been with the band since drummer Jack Irons left in 1998.
Bandmates Mike McCready (guitar), Jeff Ament (bass), Stone Gossard (guitar) and Eddie Vedder (vocals) expressed their gratitude for Cameron’s contribution to the group in a separate post.
“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,” the post read. “He will be deeply missed and is forever our friend in art and music. We love you Matt.”
Cameron, a San Diego native, moved to Seattle in 1983 and began playing in the grunge rock scene as part of bands like Bam Bam and Skin Yard. He joined Soundgarden in 1986 and lasted for a little over a decade before the group split. Cameron then began working with Pearl Jam before becoming a mainstay in the group.
The longtime drummer also collaborated with Zach Hill and Janet Weiss for the album “Drumgasm” (2013) and released his solo album “Cavedweller” in 2017.
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