After nearly three decades as Pearl Jam’s drummer, Matt Cameron has officially parted ways with the band. The announcement, made without press conferences or media build-up, came via a simple statement, marking a quiet end to a long and influential chapter in the band’s history.

Matt Cameron joined Pearl Jam in 1998 following the departure of Jack Irons. Initially brought on as a temporary solution, he quickly became a permanent fixture. His contributions extended well beyond rhythm, playing a key role in shaping the band’s post-‘90s sound. Albums such as Binaural, Riot Act, and Dark Matter carry his unmistakable signature: intricate yet restrained drumming that anchored the group through evolving musical landscapes.

Prior to Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron had already left a major mark on the music world with Soundgarden, where he was part of the pioneering grunge movement that emerged from Seattle. His dynamic style: tight, inventive, and powerful, was central to tracks like “Jesus Christ Pose,” “Spoonman,” and “Outshined.” He was also a member of Temple of the Dog, a supergroup blending members of Soundgarden and Pearl Jam during the early 1990s.

Pearl Jam released a statement expressing gratitude for Cameron’s contributions, referring to him as a “powerhouse” and a steady presence both in the studio and on stage. The band did not offer further details about the circumstances of his departure.

Cameron, 61, has not provided a public explanation for his exit. His departure marks a rare lineup change for a group known for its internal cohesion and loyalty. Since its formation in 1990, Pearl Jam has undergone only a handful of personnel shifts.

Fans have begun speculating about potential replacements, with names like Josh Freese circulating in online discussions. No official replacement has been named.

Cameron was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Pearl Jam in 2017 and is also expected to be included if Soundgarden is eventually honored in the same way. Few musicians have played a central role in shaping multiple defining bands of an era, and even fewer have done so with as much consistency and humility.

His exit leaves a notable gap, both musically and emotionally. For longtime fans, Cameron wasn’t just a drummer; he was part of Pearl Jam’s DNA for over 25 years.

Pearl Jam has yet to announce how this change will affect upcoming tour dates or future recording plans.