The tour’s over for Pearl Jam drummer Matt Cameron, who announced he’s leaving the band after almost 30 years.
Cameron posted a statement on their official Instagram page Monday.
“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” it read. “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,” it continued.
Cameron signed the post “Peace and Love.”
Pearl Jam added their own statement to the post, saying, “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.”
They continued, “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,” their statement concluded.
Cameron joined the band in 1998 several years after the band first broke big, and was initially meant to be a temporary replacement for Jack Irons. He had been playing with fellow grunge legends Soundgarden for 10 years before becoming part of Pearl Jam.
He made his studio album debut with 2000’s “Binaural,” and just wrapped up a tour with the band in support of their 12th studio album, “Dark Matter.”
No mention has been made yet of a replacement for Cameron.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.