While some may like to sneer at Creed, there is no denying their significant impact on Hard Rock music during the 2000s era. A steady rise to superstardom that began when they initially formed in 1994, little do naysayers realize, but Creed were actually building a growing underground following as early as 1997. Putting out their debut My Own Prison widely in August of that year, the album immediately grabbed the attention of those hungry for the heavier Grunge Rock sound that dominated the earlier part of the decade with bands like Alice in Chains. Full of intense lyrical content about life, death, and questioning one’s self, Creed were tapping into something that was lacking on the scene at the time, and My Own Prison is arguably one of the best Hard Rock albums released in the late ‘90s.
Naturally, Creed’s brand of music was so potent it was bound to catch a broader mainstream; which is exactly what happened with early singles such as “My Own Prison” and “What’s This Life For.” Both peaking in Mainstream Rock chart positions back in 1997 and 1998, little do many know is that “My Own Prison” was actually written/recorded as early as 1995, and “What’s This Life For” is a heartfelt piece inspired by the tragic suicide of Guitarist Mark Tremonti and Vocalist Scott Stapp’s friend. Why point this out? Because, as mentioned, Creed are one of those bands who have taken a lot of flack through the years, however, are honestly not only talented, but also quite thoughtful.
Just the tip of the iceberg, My Own Prison paved the way for something even more extraordinary in 1999 with the follow up album Human Clay. In fact, it was at this point that Creed’s enormous popularity lifted into hyper drive with some of the biggest radio Rock hits around; such as “Higher” and “With Arms Wide Open.” Suddenly Creed was not just a Hard Rock band leading their genre, but now an international juggernaut. Truthfully an explosive rise, that not even Creed’s dedicated fanbase saw coming, to put matters in perspective, Human Clay is one of the top 60 best-selling albums of all-time! Letting that sink in for a moment, Human Clay, with assistance from My Own Prison and 2001’s Weathered, made Creed one of the top-selling musical acts of the 2000s. Yes, that is right up there with Pop acts like Britney Spears and Hip Hop stars such as Eminem… so their accomplishments are rather exceptional.
Unfortunately Creed’s reign was seized by the mid-part of the decade, and the band was disbanded by the summer of 2004. Perhaps a much-needed break after such massive highs that they experienced in the years prior, interestingly enough, in November of 2004 Wind-Up Records opted to release Creed’s Greatest Hits. A rather straightforward collection, it featured every one of Creed’s U.S. singles from their first three albums, plus a bonus DVD of music videos. Certified two times platinum within four years of its release, now nearly twenty years later the compilation is available on vinyl for the first time ever.
Released on May 24, 2024 through Craft Recordings, the Greatest Hits release is presented as a 2LP set in a standard vinyl sleeve with individual, double-sided liner note featuring track lyrics. Tastefully done, there are also several color variations available, but the boldest added intrigue here is that Side D of the second LP actually has a lovely etching of the Creed Greatest Hits art. A really nice touch, the songs all sound as striking as ever and give you a chance to recollect thirteen of Creed’s biggest moments between 1997 and 2004. Save the fact that “What’s This Life For” is actually censored, the compilation is absolutely flawless and encapsulates a lot of fond memories.
A perfect addition to any physical format lovers’ collection, even more exciting is that Creed is reunited and touring throughout 2024. An unexpected reunion that initially saw sparks fly in 2023, in 2024 Creed will be headlining the Summer of ’99 Tour; where they will be joined by the likes of Finger Eleven, 3 Doors Down, Hinder, Fuel, and Daughtry. Additionally, September marks the 25th anniversary of Human Clay… so who knows what might come next. Maybe an expanded edition of the pinnacle album? Potentially their first new music since 2009’s Full Circle? Only time will tell, but until then it is recommended to pick up Creed’s Greatest Hits on vinyl and catch them on tour, because Cryptic Rock gives this release 4.5 out of 5 stars.
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