Matt Cameron reveals reasons for leaving Pearl Jam and teases new Soundgarden album
Matt Cameron recently shared details about his departure from Pearl Jam and provided an update on Soundgarden’s upcoming album. After being a part of Pearl Jam for 27 years, Cameron announced his exit earlier this year in a respectful manner. He expressed gratitude to the band members for the friendships, artistry, challenges, and laughter they shared over the years. Pearl Jam reciprocated the sentiment by acknowledging Cameron’s significance to the group and wishing him well in his future endeavors.
In a recent interview with Billboard, Cameron explained that the demanding live shows and constant touring with Pearl Jam were key factors in his decision to leave. He highlighted the intense nature of their three-hour performances and expressed a desire to focus on shorter, more intense sets moving forward. Transitioning from lengthy shows to shorter, high-energy performances aligns with Cameron’s current artistic preferences.
Before joining Pearl Jam, Cameron was a member of Soundgarden, a band set to be honored at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame later this year. Following the untimely passing of frontman Chris Cornell in 2017, Soundgarden had been working on a new album that never saw the light of day. However, there is hope for its eventual release, with Cameron sharing a positive update in the recent interview.
While there is no definitive release date for the new Soundgarden album, Cameron mentioned that the band is taking a meticulous approach to ensure that the entire album is completed before releasing any singles. He expressed his excitement for fans to hear the new music while clarifying that there are no imminent releases before the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame ceremony in November. The decision to withhold singles until the album is complete reflects Soundgarden’s commitment to presenting a cohesive body of work to their audience.
Cameron, who was previously inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017 with Pearl Jam, expressed humility and gratitude for the upcoming honor. He acknowledged the significance of being recognized by the Hall of Fame for the second time, emphasizing the realness of the achievement. This dual induction serves as a testament to Cameron’s contributions to the music industry and his enduring impact on rock music.
In conclusion, Matt Cameron’s departure from Pearl Jam and the anticipated release of Soundgarden’s new album mark significant moments in his career. While bidding farewell to one chapter, he looks forward to new artistic ventures with a focus on shorter, impactful performances. The legacy of his contributions to both Pearl Jam and Soundgarden solidifies his place in rock music history and cements his importance in the realm of contemporary music.