News & Press

Interview with Pearl Jam’s Dave Abbruzzese

Image of Modern Drummer Magizine article Dave Abbruzzese of Pearl Jam

It’s not every day that you get to talk shop with a true legend of grunge rock, so when Modern Drummer Magazine reached out asking if I might interview fellow Dallasite, Dave Abbruzzese of Pearl Jam, I didn’t hesitate.

Dave Abbruzzese didn’t start out in Seattle — the birthplace of grunge — but he got there as quick as he could when fellow Texan and drum extraordinaire Matt Chamberlain gave him a ring about a new band, Pearl Jam that was quickly on the rise and in desperate need of a drummer.

“Pearl Jam 1991-1994 was probably one of the most intense and physical live experiences […] One that will never be equaled to the same degree. The music, the energy, the fans, the crew. The time. Powerful and creative. I am proud to have played a part of the soundtrack that inspired so many.” – Dave Abbruzzese

Sitting down with Dave Abbruzzese was an amazing experience, mainly because his story of becoming the drummer for Pearl Jam is one of chance, hard work, and a whole lot of luck. He’s an inspiration to drummers, young and old, which is why I wanted to shine a light on him again.

Full interview available at ModernDrummer.com and on newsstands.


Jeff Ryan is Director, Music Licensing at Stephen Arnold Music (SAM) and a regular contributor to Modern Drummer Magazine. SAM, The World Leader in Sonic Branding®, creates audio branding for leading companies worldwide including CNN, Sony Interactive, Match, The Weather Channel, ESPN and more.

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