Longtime Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron has announced his departure from the band.
"After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam," Cameron wrote in a statement posted to Facebook. "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, filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter."
"I am forever grateful to the crew, staff and fans the world over," Cameron continued. "It's been an incredible journey. More to follow. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart."
Cameron, who also served as the drummer for Soundgarden, became the fifth drummer in Pearl Jam's history, succeeding Dave Krusen, Matt Chamberlain, Dave Abbruzzese, and Jack Irons.
He officially joined Pearl Jam after Soundgarden disbanded in 1997 and continued with the band even after reuniting with Soundgarden in 2010.
Cameron was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Pearl Jam in 2017. He'll be inducted for a second time with Soundgarden as part of the 2025 class.
In their own statement, Pearl Jam said, "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."
"He has propelled the last 27 years of Pearl Jam live shows and studio recordings," the band continued. "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."
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