Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron steps down from band

Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron has announced that he will be stepping down after 27 years with the band in a statement posted on Instagram.

Cameron rose to fame as the drummer for Soundgarden, for which he earned two Grammy awards. He joined Pearl Jam in 1998, becoming the fifth permanent drummer and boasting the longest-running stint with the band.

"After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam," Cameron wrote in the statement.

"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."

On their website, Pearl Jam also issued a statement regarding Cameron's departure.

"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," the statement read.

"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."

Rolling Stone ranked Cameron 52nd on its list of "100 Greatest Drummers of All Time" in 2016. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: with Pearl Jam in 2017, and with Soundgarden in 2025.

It is unclear what Cameron's plans are following his departure from Pearl Jam. No further statements have been made.