pearl jammatt cameron
18:34 Wednesday, 17 September 2025
After more than a quarter-century behind the kit, Matt Cameron has opened up about his decision to leave Pearl Jam, citing both the physical toll of the band's marathon concerts and his desire to focus on new creative projects.
Matt Cameron, who announced his departure from the Seattle rock legends in July, told Billboard that his decision wasn't abrupt. "I definitely gave them a lot of notice. I've spoken with Jeff [Ament] and Stone [Gossard] a little bit… It's been fine. Hopefully we'll get back together at some point and have a beer or something."
For Cameron, the move is about redirecting his energy: "I'm at a point in my life where I want to redirect my time and energy in a way that is a little bit based on what I want to pursue as an artist at this point."
A key factor, he admitted, was the physical strain of Pearl Jam's marathon shows, which regularly stretch to three hours or more. "I was having some issues with [Pearl Jam's] three-hour shows and constant touring and stuff. That's definitely an art form unto itself, to be able to do those types of shows… I'm at a point now where I want to do a face-melting 70-minute set, and that's kind of what I'm focusing on right now."
However, the next chapter for Matt Cameron is already taking shape. He fronts Is This Real?, a project that began as a Wipers tribute and has since evolved into writing and recording original material. He continues drumming in 3rd Secret alongside Nirvana's Krist Novoselic, and he remains deeply involved in Soundgarden's long-awaited final album, built around Chris Cornell's vocals recorded before the late singer's passing in 2017.
Looking ahead, Cameron will also be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Soundgarden on November 8 in Los Angeles, marking his second time in the Hall after Pearl Jam's 2017 induction.
