Complete List Of Stone Temple Pilots Band Members

Feature Photo: daigooliva, CC BY-SA 2.0 <https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0>, via Wikimedia Commons

Stone Temple Pilots was formed in 1989 in San Diego, California, and quickly became one of the defining bands of the ’90s alternative rock scene. Initially called Mighty Joe Young, the band changed its name to Stone Temple Pilots in 1992, marking the start of an iconic career. Their debut album, Core (1992), became a major success with hits like “Plush” and “Creep,” making them a household name. With their fusion of grunge, hard rock, and post-punk influences, the band defined an era in rock music. Their follow-up albums, Purple (1994) and Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996), further cemented their reputation, offering a mix of heavy guitar riffs and introspective lyrics.

Over the years, they navigated internal challenges, including breakups and lineup changes, especially following the tumultuous departure of lead singer Scott Weiland. Despite these struggles, Stone Temple Pilots continued to release successful albums, such as No. 4 (1999) and Stone Temple Pilots (2010), and have remained a prominent force in the rock world.

The band’s enduring popularity is a testament to their ability to adapt. Following Weiland’s passing in 2015, Chester Bennington briefly took over as lead vocalist, and after his departure in 2017, Jeff Gutt stepped into the role. The band has continued to perform and release new music, with their 2018 self-titled album marking another chapter in their long-running career. The current lineup, consisting of original members Robert DeLeo, Eric Kretz, and Dean DeLeo, along with Gutt, has continued to tour and contribute to the band’s legacy, proving their ability to evolve while staying true to their roots.

Robert DeLeo

Robert DeLeo is one of the founding members of Stone Temple Pilots, serving as the bassist and backing vocalist since the band’s inception in 1989. His songwriting and distinctive bass playing have been integral to the band’s success. DeLeo’s bass lines are often both melodic and rhythmically powerful, providing a solid foundation for the band’s hard rock and grunge-influenced sound. He has been part of every Stone Temple Pilots album, contributing significantly to Core (1992), Purple (1994), Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996), and others. His role in shaping the band’s sound through his bass playing and vocal harmonies is central to their identity, especially on tracks like “Plush,” “Interstate Love Song,” and “Vasoline.”

DeLeo also played a crucial part in the band’s revival after they disbanded in 2003. He rejoined the band in 2008, contributing to their self-titled album in 2010. Outside of Stone Temple Pilots, DeLeo has worked in other musical ventures, including his supergroup Army of Anyone, which he formed with members of Filter. He has also collaborated with other musicians across various genres, further showcasing his versatility and impact in the rock and alternative scenes.

Eric Kretz

Eric Kretz, the drummer and percussionist for Stone Temple Pilots, has been a core member of the band since its formation in 1989. His rhythmic style, which combines tight grooves with dynamic, emotive beats, is a defining feature of the band’s sound. Kretz played a pivotal role in shaping the rhythm section of Core (1992), Purple (1994), Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996), and other albums, contributing to the band’s hard-hitting yet nuanced style. Kretz’s drumming on songs like “Plush” and “Big Empty” has become a key element of Stone Temple Pilots’ signature sound.

After the band’s breakup in 2003, Kretz remained active in music but rejoined Stone Temple Pilots in 2008 when they reunited. He continues to perform with the band and remains an essential part of their live performances. Kretz has also been involved in producing and has contributed to various musical projects beyond Stone Temple Pilots. His steady presence in the band has been a stabilizing force, and his rhythmic foundation continues to drive the band’s music forward.

Dean DeLeo

Dean DeLeo, guitarist and primary songwriter for Stone Temple Pilots, is a key figure in the band’s success. His intricate guitar playing, combined with his songwriting skills, helped shape the band’s distinctive sound. DeLeo’s contributions to Core (1992), Purple (1994), Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996), and others are critical to understanding the band’s musical evolution. His guitar riffs and melodic playing on songs like “Plush,” “Big Empty,” and “Interstate Love Song” have become iconic in the rock world. DeLeo’s ability to combine hard rock elements with more introspective melodies set Stone Temple Pilots apart from their peers in the grunge scene.

After a period of inactivity in the early 2000s, DeLeo returned to the band when Stone Temple Pilots reunited in 2008. He continues to be a driving force in their sound and songwriting. In addition to his work with Stone Temple Pilots, DeLeo has been involved in various musical projects, including Army of Anyone, and has contributed to other bands and artists in the rock and alternative scenes.

Jeff Gutt

Jeff Gutt became Stone Temple Pilots’ lead vocalist in 2017, following the tragic death of Scott Weiland and the brief tenure of Chester Bennington. Gutt’s voice blends elements of rock, grunge, and soul, making him an ideal choice to carry on the legacy of the band. He recorded the band’s 2018 self-titled album, which marked a new chapter for Stone Temple Pilots. Gutt’s performances on songs like “Meadow” and “Roll Me Under” showcased his ability to honor the band’s past while bringing his own unique vocal style to the group.

Before joining Stone Temple Pilots, Gutt was known for his appearance on The X Factor and for fronting the band Dry Cell. His experience in the music industry, combined with his powerful vocal range, made him a natural fit for the band. Gutt continues to perform and record with Stone Temple Pilots, contributing to the band’s continued success.

Scott Weiland

Scott Weiland was the original lead vocalist for Stone Temple Pilots and one of the band’s founding members. Weiland’s emotive voice and charismatic stage presence were key elements of the band’s identity, especially on albums like Core (1992), Purple (1994), and Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996). His powerful vocals on tracks like “Plush” and “Interstate Love Song” became iconic in the 1990s grunge scene. Weiland’s songwriting, which often dealt with personal struggles, was integral to the band’s lyrical identity.

Weiland’s time with Stone Temple Pilots was marked by both immense success and personal challenges, including struggles with addiction. He left the band in 2003 but returned in 2008 before ultimately departing again in 2013. Weiland also had a successful solo career and was the frontman for Velvet Revolver, another supergroup that saw commercial success. Tragically, Weiland passed away in 2015, leaving behind a rich legacy in the rock world.

Chester Bennington

Chester Bennington joined Stone Temple Pilots as their lead vocalist in 2013, following the departure of Scott Weiland. Bennington’s unique vocal style, which blended emotional depth with powerful energy, added a new dimension to the band. His contributions to the 2013 self-titled EP were marked by his dynamic range, and songs like “Black Heart” and “Out of Time” showcased his ability to adapt to Stone Temple Pilots’ sound while bringing his own distinct touch. Bennington’s tenure with the band was brief but impactful, as he filled a crucial role following Weiland’s departure.

Bennington’s main fame came from his work as the lead vocalist of Linkin Park, where he helped shape the band’s distinctive nu-metal sound. He was also a member of Dead by Sunrise and had other musical collaborations during his career. Bennington’s tragic death in 2017 left a hole in both Linkin Park and Stone Temple Pilots’ communities, as his talent and influence were far-reaching.