Matt Cameron’s departure from Pearl Jam hit hard—fans and fellow musicians alike have been pouring out their emotions, sharing memories, and showing massive respect.
Dave Krusen, the band’s original drummer who played on Ten, spoke with heartfelt admiration during a July 8 interview on Seattle’s KISW, as well as in some private convos. He called Cameron “a legend” and praised his drumming style as one of the most musical he’s ever known.
“I’ve always loved him—since the Soundgarden days,” Krusen said. “He’s one of the most musical drummers out there.” He also gave props to Matt’s journey: “Being in Pearl Jam for 27 years is huge—Matt gave the band so much.” Krusen told us he’d be open to getting back on stage with the band if asked, though he made it clear that no one has reached out so far.
Dave Abbruzzese, who played with the band from 1991 to 1994 during the Vs. and Vitalogy years, shared his thoughts in a long Facebook post (which you can read in full on his page, but we’re not reposting the whole thing here). He called Cameron “one of the greatest drummers in the world,” and described him as not just an amazing musician, but also “a kind, strong, talented, and generous person.” He reflected on the mutual respect and real affection they shared on stage, and admitted that Matt’s decision hit him hard.
As for his own exit from Pearl Jam back in ‘94, Abbruzzese was clear: there’s “no unfinished business.” In fact, he stressed that most of the tension came from management and the label—not the band itself. Since they haven’t kept in touch over the years, he now sees the distance between them as “too cold and deep,” and doesn’t see a reunion happening. When he asks fans to stop pushing him to reconnect with the band, he does it respectfully—just hoping folks will understand where he’s coming from.
And it wasn’t just Krusen and Abbruzzese who spoke up—tons of musicians came forward to show their love and support for Matt.
Lily Cornell Silver, daughter of the late Chris Cornell and Susan Silver, wrote: “Love you so much,” while Taylor Momsen of The Pretty Reckless added: “You are and will continue to be amazing at all you do.” Brad Wilk (Rage Against the Machine, Audioslave) said: “You’ve inspired us all and always will. All the best, Matt.” Geddy Lee of Rush chimed in with: “Matt – thanks for all your incredible contributions to music! You’re truly the best, and I wish you nothing but love and happiness.” Rex Brown from Pantera added: “To one of THE baddest drummers in history: We salute you, Matt!”
Raw, honest words full of admiration for a drummer who didn’t just hold it down for Pearl Jam—he helped shape the sound of a generation.
Born in Reggio Emilia in 1980. He created pearljamonline.it in 2001 and wrote the first edition of “Pearl Jam Evolution” in 2009 along with his wife Daria. Since 2022, he is behind 2 podcasts: “Pearl Jam dalla A alla Z” and “Fuori Orario Not Another Podcast”. He has collaborated with Barracuda Style, HvsR, Rolling Stone, Rockol and Il Fatto Quotidiano. He continues relentlessly to try to find “beautiful melodies that say terrible things”.
Favorite song: Present Tense
Favorite album: No Code
Favorite bands/artists other than PJ: Tom Waits, Soundgarden, Ramones, Bruce Springsteen, IDLES, Fontaines D.C., Mark Lanegan, R.E.M., Radiohead, Cat Power, Dead Kennedys