Stone Temple Pilots have carved a unique niche in rock history. Emerging in the early '90s, they quickly became one of the defining bands of the grunge era. But did you know they were initially called Mighty Joe Young? Their debut album, "Core," released in 1992, catapulted them to fame with hits like "Plush" and "Creep." Despite facing numerous challenges, including lineup changes and the tragic loss of lead singer Scott Weiland, the band has continued to create music that resonates with fans worldwide. Stone Temple Pilots have sold over 40 million records globally, proving their lasting impact on the music scene. Ready to dive into more intriguing facts about this iconic band? Let's get started!
The Origins of Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots (STP) emerged as one of the most influential rock bands of the 1990s. Their journey is filled with fascinating stories and milestones.
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The band was formed in 1989 by Scott Weiland and Robert DeLeo. They met at a Black Flag concert and discovered they were dating the same girl. Instead of fighting, they bonded over their love for music.
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Originally named "Mighty Joe Young," they had to change their name because a bluesman already had the rights to it. They chose "Stone Temple Pilots" because they liked the initials "STP," reminiscent of the motor oil brand.
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Their debut album, "Core," released in 1992, became a massive success. It featured hits like "Plush" and "Creep," propelling them to stardom.
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"Core" sold over 8 million copies in the United States alone, making it one of the best-selling albums of the 1990s.
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The band won a Grammy Award in 1994 for Best Hard Rock Performance with Vocal for their song "Plush."
The Band Members
Each member of Stone Temple Pilots brought unique talents and personalities to the band, contributing to their distinctive sound.
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Scott Weiland, the lead vocalist, was known for his dynamic stage presence and versatile voice. He struggled with addiction throughout his career, which often led to legal troubles and rehab stints.
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Robert DeLeo, the bassist, co-founded the band and was a primary songwriter. His bass lines are a defining feature of STP's music.
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Dean DeLeo, Robert's brother, played lead guitar. His riffs and solos added a distinctive edge to their songs.
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Eric Kretz, the drummer, completed the original lineup. His powerful drumming provided the backbone for the band's sound.
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Chester Bennington of Linkin Park joined STP as the lead vocalist in 2013 after Weiland's departure. He recorded the "High Rise" EP with them before leaving in 2015.
Iconic Albums and Songs
Stone Temple Pilots released several albums that left a lasting impact on rock music. Each album showcased their evolving sound and musical experimentation.
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"Purple," their second album, released in 1994, debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. It included hits like "Interstate Love Song" and "Vasoline."
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"Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop," released in 1996, marked a departure from their grunge roots. It featured a more psychedelic and glam rock sound.
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"No. 4," released in 1999, saw the band returning to a heavier rock sound. The single "Sour Girl" became a hit, partly due to its surreal music video.
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"Shangri-La Dee Da," released in 2001, was their fifth studio album. It included the single "Days of the Week."
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"Stone Temple Pilots," their self-titled album, released in 2010, marked their first album with the original lineup since 2001.
Memorable Performances and Tours
Stone Temple Pilots were known for their electrifying live performances. Their tours often drew large crowds and rave reviews.
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Their performance at MTV Unplugged in 1993 is considered one of their best. They played acoustic versions of their hits, showcasing their versatility.
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The band headlined the 1994 Reading Festival in the UK, solidifying their status as international rock stars.
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STP's 2008 reunion tour was a major success. It marked the return of the original lineup after a five-year hiatus.
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Their performance at the 2010 Download Festival in the UK was highly praised. They played a mix of classic hits and new material.
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The band's final tour with Scott Weiland in 2012 was bittersweet. Despite his struggles, Weiland delivered memorable performances.
Challenges and Controversies
Like many rock bands, Stone Temple Pilots faced their share of challenges and controversies. These incidents often made headlines and affected the band's dynamics.
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Scott Weiland's substance abuse issues were a constant struggle. His addiction led to multiple arrests and stints in rehab.
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The band had several hiatuses due to internal conflicts and Weiland's personal issues. These breaks often left fans wondering about the band's future.
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Weiland was fired from the band in 2013 due to his erratic behavior and inability to commit to the band's schedule.
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Legal battles ensued after Weiland's departure. He sued the band for wrongful termination, and they countersued for his use of the band's name in his solo career.
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Chester Bennington's departure in 2015 was amicable. He left to focus on Linkin Park, but his time with STP was well-received by fans.
Legacy and Influence
Despite their ups and downs, Stone Temple Pilots left an indelible mark on rock music. Their influence can be seen in many modern rock bands.
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STP is often credited with bridging the gap between grunge and alternative rock. Their sound evolved over the years, incorporating elements of glam rock, psychedelic rock, and hard rock.
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The band's music videos were known for their creativity and visual appeal. The video for "Sour Girl" featured Sarah Michelle Gellar and became iconic.
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STP's songs have been covered by numerous artists, showcasing their lasting impact. Bands like Seether and Halestorm have paid tribute to their music.
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The band was inducted into the Hollywood RockWalk in 1999, recognizing their contributions to rock music.
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Scott Weiland's death in 2015 was a tragic loss for the music world. He was found dead on his tour bus from an accidental overdose.
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The band continues to perform with new lead vocalist Jeff Gutt, who joined in 2017. They released a new album in 2020, proving their resilience and dedication to their music.
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Stone Temple Pilots' influence can be heard in the music of bands like Velvet Revolver, which Weiland also fronted, and newer acts like Greta Van Fleet.
The Legacy of Stone Temple Pilots
Stone Temple Pilots have left an indelible mark on rock music. From their debut album "Core" to their latest releases, they've consistently pushed boundaries. Their unique blend of grunge, alternative rock, and psychedelic influences set them apart from their peers. Hits like "Plush," "Interstate Love Song," and "Vasoline" remain timeless classics.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including lineup changes and personal struggles, the band has shown remarkable resilience. Their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots has earned them a dedicated fan base. The tragic loss of Scott Weiland and later Chester Bennington was a heavy blow, yet the band's spirit endures.
Stone Temple Pilots' story is one of creativity, perseverance, and passion. Their music continues to inspire new generations, proving that their legacy is far from over. Rock on, STP!
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