Simply over a month in the past, Stereogum contributor Christopher Weingarten compiled a complete record of bands who’ve parted methods with their drummer in 2025, together with Foo Fighters, the Who, Weapons N’ Roses, and nearly a dozen extra. It’s a phenomenon we’ve formally dubbed the “drumpocalypse,” and Weingarten even spoke to NPR about it, so it’s actually official now. However I have to break the unlucky information that Weingarten’s unique record of departed drummers is now outdated. Matt Cameron, who’s been drumming for Pearl Jam for practically three a long time, introduced at present that he’s leaving the band, too.
“After 27 improbable years, I’ve taken my closing steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” Cameron wrote on Instagram this morning. “A lot love and respect to Jeff, Ed, Mike and Stone for inviting me into the band in 1998 and for giving me the chance of a lifetime, one crammed with friendships, artistry, challenges and laughter. I’m perpetually grateful to the crew, workers and followers the world over. It’s been an unbelievable journey. Extra to observe. Thanks all from the underside of my coronary heart.”
Earlier than becoming a member of Pearl Jam, Cameron was a member of Soundgarden’s traditional lineup, acting on all their studio albums. After Soundgarden’s preliminary breakup in 1997, Cameron was invited to be Pearl Jam’s touring drummer, with earlier drummer Jack Irons having left to give attention to his well being and household. Cameron was subsequently invited to hitch Pearl Jam completely, acting on seven of their studio albums from 2000’s Binaural to 2024’s Darkish Matter. When Soundgarden reunited in 2010, Cameron pulled double-duty, staying in each bands till Soundgarden broke up for good following frontman Chris Cornell’s loss of life in 2017.
I do know of some bands who want a drummer proper now! See Cameron’s announcement beneath.
