Matt Cameron, Pearl Jam’s Longest Serving Drummer, Leaves Band After 27 Years

After 27 years playing drums with Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron announced his departure from the band in a social media statement shared on Monday (July 7). “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, one filled with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter,” Cameron wrote. “It’s been an incredible journey. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart.” In response, Pearl Jam, now consisting of Jeff Ament, Stone Gossard, Mike McCready, and Eddie Vedder, shared their own statement: “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.” Cameron’s departure marks the end of his longest stint in a band, having previously played with Soundgarden from 1986 until 1997, returning for their reunion from 2010 through 2017. Pearl Jam have not announced any plans to name a replacement drummer as of yet. (Rolling Stone)