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Off He Goes: Matt Cameron Departs from Pearl Jam After 27 Years!

  • Writer: Jade Read
    Jade Read
  • Jul 7
  • 2 min read
Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam at Fenway Park, Sept. 4, 2018. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.
Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam at Fenway Park, Sept. 4, 2018. Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images.

After an impressive 27 years serving as the beat of the iconic Pearl Jam, Matt Cameron has chosen to embark on a new journey! In a heartfelt social media post, Cameron expressed, "After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam. 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.."

The reasons behind Cameron's decision remain unclear, especially since the band just wrapped up their 10-date North American Dark Matter Tour! So, what does this mean for Pearl Jam? Clearly, they are in need of a new drummer, but who could fill those big shoes?


Potential Drummers for Pearl Jam

Our top pick at Sonder is the newest free agent on the market, Zak Starkey! At first glance, this choice might seem unexpected, but let's explore the connections. Starkey recently concluded nearly 30 years as the drummer for The Who, making him available for a new opportunity. But how does this link him to Pearl Jam?


A little-known fact is that Eddie Vedder was more than a "Better Man" at Zak Starkey's wedding in 2022, he was his Best Man! which could pave the way for a potential return of Starkey behind the kit for Pearl Jam. But who else might be in the running?


Other Possible Candidates

  • Dave Krusen: The original drummer who played on Pearl Jam's debut album, Ten, could make a nostalgic return.

  • Jack Irons: Another former drummer who has a long history with the band, Irons could bring himself back to the fold.

  • Josh Freese: Known for his versatility and experience with various rock bands, Freese would be a strong contender following his departure from Foo Fighters!


As Pearl Jam navigates this new chapter, fans are left eagerly anticipating who will take the helm as the new drummer. The possibilities are exciting!

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