How Stone Temple Pilots Came Back Strong With ‘Purple’

The ’90s were a transformative era for rock music, characterized by the emergence of grunge and alternative rock. Bands like Stone Temple Pilots and Live became synonymous with this movement, leaving an indelible mark on the genre. Stone Temple Pilots’ bassist and songwriter Robert DeLeo recently discussed the challenges and triumphs of following up their successful debut album, ‘Core,’ with their sophomore effort, ‘Purple.’ In a conversation with Ultimate Classic Rock, DeLeo delved into the overwhelming pressure the band faced to replicate their initial success. Similarly, Live’s vocalist Ed Kowalczyk shared his experiences of navigating the music industry’s demands after the release of their breakthrough album, ‘Mental Jewelry.’ Both bands are now celebrating the 30th anniversary of these iconic albums, reflecting on their legacies and the impact they’ve had on fans and fellow musicians alike.

DeLeo recalls the early days of Stone Temple Pilots with a sense of nostalgia and gratitude. The band, consisting of DeLeo, his brother Dean on guitar, drummer Eric Kretz, and vocalist Scott Weiland, started out with modest expectations. They were just four guys passionate about making music, unaware of the fame and scrutiny that awaited them. The release of ‘Core’ in 1992 catapulted them into the spotlight, bringing both adulation and criticism. The sudden success was overwhelming, and the band struggled to cope with the demands of being in the public eye. Despite the challenges, they remained grounded by focusing on their love for music and their strong bond as a band. DeLeo credits their manager and record label for providing the support and guidance needed to navigate their newfound fame.

Following the success of ‘Core,’ the pressure to deliver another hit album was immense. DeLeo shares that the band felt a mix of excitement and anxiety as they began working on ‘Purple.’ The process was both exhilarating and daunting, as they aimed to create something that would resonate with fans while staying true to their artistic vision. One pivotal moment for the band came when DeLeo wrote ‘Interstate Love Song’ in the back of an RV. This track, along with others like ‘Vasoline’ and ‘Big Empty,’ showcased the band’s growth and evolution. Meanwhile, Kowalczyk faced similar pressures with Live’s follow-up to ‘Mental Jewelry.’ He recalls the challenge of writing lyrics that captured the raw emotion and authenticity that fans had come to expect from the band.

As Stone Temple Pilots promoted ‘Purple,’ they released ‘Big Empty’ on the soundtrack for the film ‘The Crow.’ This strategic move helped maintain the band’s visibility and introduced their music to a broader audience. Kowalczyk also had a defining moment in his career when Live performed at Woodstock ’94, playing in front of a quarter million people. These experiences not only solidified their status in the music industry but also reinforced the importance of connecting with fans through live performances. Both DeLeo and Kowalczyk express their excitement to revisit their albums and the nostalgia that comes with it. They reflect on the magic of creating songs and the unexpected moments that elevated them to iconic status.

DeLeo is particularly grateful for the enduring success of Stone Temple Pilots’ songs and the opportunity to appreciate it at his age, 35 years later. The ongoing interest in their music and the relationship it has with fans is a testament to its lasting impact. Similarly, Kowalczyk is proud and thankful that Live’s art continues to be appreciated and loved even after three decades. The ’90s were dominated by grunge music, and the success of bands like Stone Temple Pilots and Live contributed significantly to that legacy. Their achievements helped pave the way for future artists and shape the decade’s rock music scene.

In a recent interview with Loudwire Nights, DeLeo and Kowalczyk celebrated the 30th anniversaries of ‘Purple’ and ‘Throwing Copper.’ They discussed the timelessness of their songs and the sentimental value they hold for fans. DeLeo expressed that songs stand the test of time and serve as a way for artists to achieve a form of immortality. Kowalczyk echoed this sentiment, marveling at how their music still matters to people after 30 years. Both artists shared their admiration for their peers and the inspiration they drew from them. They also touched on the vulnerability and courage it takes to put one’s thoughts and feelings into music for the world to hear.

DeLeo reflected on the pressure they faced after the success of ‘Core’ and how it influenced the making of ‘Purple.’ He recalled a conversation with Jimmy Page, who revealed that his favorite Led Zeppelin album was their first because it gave them the opportunity to make their second. DeLeo paralleled this sentiment with the success of ‘Core’ allowing Stone Temple Pilots the chance to create ‘Purple.’ Kowalczyk, too, remembered the challenges and fears that came with creating and sharing new music. Despite these hurdles, both artists are grateful for the opportunities and experiences their music has brought them.

Stone Temple Pilots are currently embarking on a U.S. tour to celebrate the 30th anniversary of ‘Purple.’ The tour, which begins in Concord, California, features other notable bands such as Live, Soul Asylum, and Our Lady Peace. For STP’s frontman Jeff Gutt, the tour is particularly exciting as it brings together artists from his youth. Gutt mentions a past tour with Bush and expresses his enthusiasm for reconnecting with influential artists he admired growing up. He is also looking forward to hearing Live’s hits and seeing Ed Kowalczyk perform. Gutt admits that he had forgotten how many great songs Live had, but he is excited to experience them anew.

Having been with Stone Temple Pilots for seven years, Gutt feels more comfortable performing songs previously sung by Scott Weiland and Chester Bennington. He acknowledges the difficulty of taking ownership of songs written by others but tries to approach them as a fan. Gutt focuses on what the songs mean to him personally, rather than what they meant to previous singers. The 1994 album ‘Purple’ holds a special place in Gutt’s heart, and he enjoys performing it now as much as he did when he first bought it as a teenager. The tour will also include songs from STP’s other albums, and Gutt is eager to perform them as well.

Touring is a nostalgic and special experience for Gutt, as it allows him to play music with bands he grew up listening to. He emphasizes the importance of connecting with fans and sharing the experience of live music. Gutt admires the longevity of bands like Live and Soul Asylum and hopes that Stone Temple Pilots can continue to perform for many years to come. He expresses excitement about the opportunity to perform with other talented musicians and learn from them. Gutt believes that touring is a vital way to connect with people and share a love of music, and he is grateful for the chance to continue the legacy of STP’s influential music.

As Stone Temple Pilots and Live celebrate their 30th anniversaries, it is a reminder of the enduring power of ’90s music and its impact on artists and fans. The interview with DeLeo and Kowalczyk highlights the pressure and challenges faced by musicians in the ’90s, as well as the magic and nostalgia that comes with revisiting their albums. Both artists are proud of their contributions to the rock music scene and thankful for the continued appreciation of their art. The cultural significance and enduring appeal of ’90s rock albums, specifically those of Stone Temple Pilots and Live, cannot be overstated. Their music continues to resonate with fans today, proving that great art truly stands the test of time.

The journey of Stone Temple Pilots and Live is a testament to the resilience and creativity of artists who dared to push boundaries and stay true to their vision. DeLeo and Kowalczyk’s reflections on their careers offer valuable insights into the highs and lows of the music industry. Their stories serve as an inspiration to aspiring musicians and a reminder of the transformative power of music. As they look back on their 30-year journey, both artists express a deep sense of gratitude and fulfillment. They acknowledge the role their fans have played in their success and the joy of creating music that continues to touch lives across generations.

In conclusion, the legacy of Stone Temple Pilots and Live is a celebration of artistic integrity, perseverance, and the timeless nature of great music. Their albums ‘Purple’ and ‘Throwing Copper’ remain iconic, capturing the essence of a pivotal era in rock history. As DeLeo and Kowalczyk continue to perform and connect with fans, their music serves as a bridge between the past and the present. The enduring appeal of their songs is a testament to their talent and the universal themes they explore. As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of these landmark albums, we are reminded of the profound impact that music can have on our lives and the enduring legacy of the artists who create it.