Original Pearl Jam Drummer Talks Rock Hall Induction

2017-01-02

Story by Anne Erickson

Pearl Jam’s original drummer Dave Krusen says Rock Hall inclusion is ‘a massive surprise’

Pearl Jam will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2017, and when that happens, original drummer Dave Krusen will be inducted with them. Krusen is stunned but extremely grateful to be part of the honors.

“I’m extremely stoked,” he said in an interview with Rolling Stone. “It’s a massive surprise for me, really.”

Krusen played drums on one Pearl Jam album, and that record happened to be the group’s massive 1991 debut, “Ten.” He left Pearl Jam after laying down drums for “Ten” because of alcohol problems.

“It had just been so long ago,” Krusen said. “But it was just a really pleasant surprise to be included in all that. I’m thrilled.”

Pearl Jam have utilized four drummers on their albums over the years: Krusen, Dave Abbruzzese, Jack Irons and current drummer Matt Cameron. Krusen and Cameron will be inducted into the Rock Hall, but not Abbruzzese or Irons. That’s a touchy issue.

“People can have a favorite drummer. I understand that,” Krusen said. “But to try and tear one down to build the other up, I don’t understand that. I can’t get with that. I think Matt Cameron is, by far, the best drummer the band has ever had, in my opinion.”

Regarding the drummers being included in the Rock Hall, Krusen added, “The whole drummer controversy with the band, obviously Matt Cameron should be there. Beyond that, I guess I’ll just stay out of it.”

The Rock Hall induction ceremony will happen April 7 in Brooklyn, New York City.

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Anne Erickson

Meet the expert - Author, writer and editor Anne Erickson is a Detroit-based music reporter and radio host. She has written for the USA Today Network, Consequence.net, Blabbermouth.net, Loudwire.com and many more. Anne holds a master's degree from Michigan State University. Contact Anne at anne@audioinkradio.com.