Matt Cameron is leaving Pearl Jam after 27 years.

The drummer posted a heartfelt message on social media, thanking his band mates.

“After 27 fantastic years, I have taken my final steps down the drum riser for the mighty Pearl Jam,” Cameron’s statement read. “Much love and respect to Jeff (Ament), Ed (Vedder), Mike (McCready) and Stone (Gossard) 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.”

Vedder, Gossard, McCready and Ament also posted a statement thanking Camerson.

“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,” the statement read. “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.”

Cameron joined Pearl Jam, known for its grunge sound, in 1998 a year after Soundgarden broke up in 1997.

Cameron was also inducted twice into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, first in 2017 for his work with Pearl Jam and, this year, for his contributions to Soundgarden.

Mark Heim is a reporter for The Alabama Media Group. Follow him on Twitter @Mark_Heim. He can be heard on “The Opening Kickoff” on WNSP-FM 105.5 FM in Mobile or on the free Sound of Mobile App from 6 to 9 a.m. daily.