Members of Stone Temple Pilots: Complete Story & Where Are They Now
Image credit: Wikimedia Commons
📋 Table of Contents [+]
🎸 ESSENTIAL STP ALBUMS AWAIT 🎸
Dive into the complete Stone Temple Pilots discography below!
From Core to Perdida, explore the albums that defined a generation.
The Original Members of Stone Temple Pilots
The members of Stone Temple Pilots who started it all formed one of the most unexpected alliances in rock history.
In 1985, Scott Weiland met Robert DeLeo at a Black Flag concert in Long Beach, California.
The two Point Loma residents discovered they were dating the same woman, but rather than let jealousy tear them apart, they decided to channel their energy into creating music together.
This serendipitous meeting became the foundation for what would eventually become the members of Stone Temple Pilots.
Robert’s older brother Dean DeLeo joined on guitar in 1989, bringing his distinctive melodic sensibility and harmonic sophistication that would define STP’s sound.
Dean had actually left music behind to pursue a successful business career in New Jersey, but his brother Robert convinced him to take one more shot at rock stardom.
The final piece fell into place when the band spotted drummer Eric Kretz playing at a Long Beach club.
Kretz, a Santa Cruz native who had relocated to San Diego, brought the powerful, funk-inflected drumming style influenced by legends like John Bonham and classic ’70s rock.
💡 Did You Know?
The members of Stone Temple Pilots originally called themselves “Mighty Joe Young” after a 1949 film about a giant ape, but had to change their name when they discovered a blues musician had already claimed it.
The STP Motor Oil logo inspired their new name, and they used to hand out free STP stickers at gas stations as promotional giveaways!
How the Band Came Together in San Diego
The members of Stone Temple Pilots built their reputation playing the San Diego club circuit throughout the late 1980s.
Their first major show supporting Henry Rollins at the Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood announced their arrival to the Los Angeles music scene.
By 1990, the band relocated to Los Angeles and began working on their debut album with legendary producer Brendan O’Brien.
During the recording sessions, they received the fateful call about the name conflict, leading to their transformation into Stone Temple Pilots.
Atlantic Records signed them in 1992, and their debut album Core exploded onto the scene on September 29, 1992.
Early Musical Background of Key Members
Dean DeLeo grew up in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, where he spent his teenage years riding his bicycle to the local music shop, mesmerized by the guitars hanging on the walls.
He started writing songs around age 15, partly because he found learning other people’s songs too difficult, which forced him to create his own material.
His influences ranged from The Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter” to The Beatles’ “I Am the Walrus,” shaping his eclectic approach to guitar.
Robert DeLeo, Dean’s younger brother, developed his bass playing with influences from rhythm and blues, lounge music, and ragtime, creating a uniquely sophisticated bottom end for rock bands of the grunge era.
Eric Kretz started “banging on pots and pans” at age 10 in San Jose, California.
His early influences included KISS, AC/DC, Aerosmith, Rush, Led Zeppelin, Queen, and progressive rock bands like Mahavishnu Orchestra and Genesis.
After practicing religiously for a year, he received his first drum kit at age 11, a CB700.
Scott Weiland brought his charismatic stage presence and distinctive baritone voice, influenced by David Bowie, The Doors, and the glam rock movement.
His lyrical approach tackled societal issues like religion, abuse of power, and isolation, setting the members of Stone Temple Pilots apart from typical grunge bands.
Stone Temple Pilots Lineup Changes Through the Years
For 24 years, the original members of Stone Temple Pilots remained unchanged, a remarkable feat in an industry known for revolving door lineups.
From their 1989 formation through 2013, Scott Weiland, Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, and Eric Kretz stood as one of the most stable lineups among classic rock bands.
They released five studio albums together during the ’90s: Core (1992), Purple (1994), Tiny Music… Songs from the Vatican Gift Shop (1996), No. 4 (1999), and Shangri-La Dee Da (2001).
Their chemistry produced 18 million albums sold in the United States and 40 million worldwide during the 1990s alone.
However, Weiland’s well-documented struggles with substance abuse created mounting tension within the band.
The 2013 Firing of Scott Weiland
On February 27, 2013, the members of Stone Temple Pilots made their first lineup change in the band’s history, firing Scott Weiland.
The decision came after years of canceled shows, legal troubles, and erratic behavior stemming from Weiland’s addiction issues.
“I learned of my supposed ‘termination’ from Stone Temple Pilots this morning by reading about it in the press,” Weiland responded in a statement.
“Not sure how I can be ‘terminated’ from a band that I founded, fronted, and co-wrote many of its biggest hits.”
Both parties issued lawsuits over the right to perform with the Stone Temple Pilots name, eventually settling out of court with the DeLeo brothers and Kretz retaining the rights.
Tragically, Scott Weiland died on December 3, 2015, from an accidental drug overdose while on tour with his solo band.
He was just 48 years old, leaving behind a complicated legacy as one of the most talented yet troubled vocalists of his generation.
💡 Did You Know?
In a January 1994 Rolling Stone poll, the members of Stone Temple Pilots were simultaneously voted “Best New Band” by the magazine’s readers and “Worst New Band” by the magazine’s music critics.
The same year, they won a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance for “Plush” – proving the readers right!
Chester Bennington’s Brief But Memorable Tenure
On May 18, 2013, the remaining members of Stone Temple Pilots performed with Chester Bennington of Linkin Park at the 21st Annual KROQ Weenie Roast.
Bennington had stated in interviews that joining Stone Temple Pilots was his lifelong dream, making the collaboration feel destined.
The new lineup released a free download of “Out of Time” the very next day, with Bennington now an official member.
In October 2013, they released the five-track EP High Rise, credited as “Stone Temple Pilots with Chester Bennington.”
The single “Black Heart” showcased Bennington’s powerful vocals perfectly suited to STP’s melodic rock style.
However, Bennington left the band amicably in November 2015 to focus on Linkin Park and his family.
“It was great, but I really needed to concentrate on Linkin Park,” Bennington explained at the time.
Tragically, Chester Bennington died by suicide on July 20, 2017, devastating the rock community and leaving the members of Stone Temple Pilots mourning yet another vocalist.
“The tragedies between each person, Scott and Chester, were very different,” Dean DeLeo later reflected.
“Scott was in a very long-term decline. I don’t know which hurts more – to watch that over a decade or just the suddenness of what happened to Chester.”
Finding Jeff Gutt: The 15,000 Audition Story
In February 2016, the members of Stone Temple Pilots launched an unprecedented online audition for a new lead vocalist.
“If you think you have what it takes to front this band, record with this band, and tour with this band, we would dig hearing from you,” they announced.
Over 15,000 hopefuls submitted auditions from around the world.
Dean DeLeo spent well over 100 hours behind his computer reviewing submissions, calling the payoff “grim” until they found the right candidate.
Jeff Gutt, a Detroit native who had appeared on The X Factor and fronted the nu-metal band Dry Cell, was one of the last candidates they saw in September 2016.
“Mr. Weiland paved quite a way,” Dean told Rolling Stone about the search.
“Because not just anybody can sing this catalog. You need someone who really knows how to sing. And Jeff kind of has it all, man. He has that baritone, and he’s also able to get into that tenor world.”
On November 14, 2017, the members of Stone Temple Pilots officially announced Jeff Gutt as their new lead singer at a secret show at the Troubadour in Los Angeles.
They performed hits like “Interstate Love Song,” “Plush,” “Vasoline,” and “Down,” along with their new single “Meadow” and a cover of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” – the same song that made Gutt famous on The X Factor.
🎤 DISCOVER MORE BAND MEMBER STORIES 🎤
Explore the fascinating histories of your favorite classic rock bands!
From formation stories to where they are now.
Where Are the Members of Stone Temple Pilots Today?
The current members of Stone Temple Pilots continue to thrive both as a band and through individual creative projects in 2026.
After surviving the tragic deaths of two vocalists, the DeLeo brothers and Eric Kretz have proven their resilience while Jeff Gutt has earned his place as the voice carrying STP forward.
The band recently confirmed tour dates for 2026, including appearances at Sonic Temple Art + Music Festival in Columbus, Ohio in May and ROCKIN’ THE ISLAND 2026 festival in Welch, Minnesota in June.
Robert DeLeo: Bass Virtuoso and Second Solo Album
Robert DeLeo, the bassist and principal songwriter among the members of Stone Temple Pilots, is currently finishing his second solo album tentatively due in 2026.
“I am trying to finish up a second solo record that I’m doing right now,” Robert revealed in a December 2025 interview with the “100 Guitarists” podcast.
His first solo album, “Lessons Learned,” came out in October 2022 and featured various guest vocalists including Jimmy Gnecco and Pete Shoulder.
“People always ask why I don’t sing my own songs, [and it’s] ’cause I really can’t,” Robert explained with characteristic humility.
“And that’s why, fortunately, I have some great friends with amazing voices.”
For his upcoming second solo album, he’s confirmed collaborations with Jimmy Gnecco, Jay Buchanan from Rival Sons, and Pete Shoulder.
“I’m doing all the guitars,” Robert added, showcasing his multi-instrumental talents beyond his legendary bass work.
Beyond his solo work, Robert continues anchoring the members of Stone Temple Pilots with his distinctive bass lines that blend sophistication with raw power.
Dean DeLeo: Guitar Legend’s New Projects
Dean DeLeo has been incredibly prolific outside his work with the members of Stone Temple Pilots, releasing multiple collaborative projects.
In 2021, he teamed up with Nashville session player Tom Bukovac for Trip The Witch, releasing their self-titled debut album featuring Yes vocalist Jon Anderson on “Saturn We Miss You.”
Most recently, Dean announced his new project One More Satellite with English singer and lyricist Pete Shoulder.
The self-titled debut album was released on July 18, 2025, via Symphonic Records.
“It started out as an instrumental thing, riding the coattails of the Trip the Witch record,” Dean explained.
“Pete Shoulder sang on one song, then another, and wound up singing on eight of the 10.”
The album features special guest appearances including Dean’s son Rocco DeLeo on drums for three tracks, his daughter June providing vocals on “Your Call,” and fellow Stone Temple Pilots member Eric Kretz drumming on “Serenade.”
Dean continues balancing his time between Stone Temple Pilots touring commitments and his collaborative projects, with a second One More Satellite album already in the works for early 2026.
At 60 years old, Dean remains one of the most innovative guitarists in rock, known for his unique chord voicings and melodic approach that helped define the alternative rock sound of the ’90s.
💡 Did You Know?
The members of Stone Temple Pilots have sold over 70 million albums worldwide throughout their career, making them one of the best-selling rock bands of all time.
Their debut album Core alone has been certified 8x Platinum by the RIAA, selling over 8 million copies in the United States!
Eric Kretz: The Steady Heartbeat
Eric Kretz, now 59 years old, remains the steady foundation among the members of Stone Temple Pilots.
As the only member who has never pursued significant solo projects, Kretz’s focus has remained on STP and his recording studio work.
He owns and operates Bomb Shelter Studios in downtown Los Angeles, which he opened in 2004.
Over the years, he’s worked with numerous artists and gained additional experience as music supervisor for The Henry Rollins Show on IFC, where he recorded performances by everyone from Radiohead to Slayer.
Kretz co-wrote some of Stone Temple Pilots’ biggest hits, including writing the music to their 1996 hit “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart.”
Along with Scott Weiland, he also wrote the lyrics to the Grammy Award-winning “Plush” from the band’s 1992 debut Core.
In August 2025, Kretz briefly joined The Joe Perry Project but had to step away due to a family emergency, though he planned to rejoin when able.
Known for his funk-inflected drumming style influenced by John Bonham, Neil Peart, and progressive rock drummers, Kretz has evolved from strictly heel-up drumming to a heel-down approach for more power.
His distinctive use of rototoms – inspired by King Crimson’s Bill Bruford – has become a signature element of his live setup.
Jeff Gutt: Leading STP Into the Future
At 49 years old, Jeff Gutt has now been fronting the members of Stone Temple Pilots for over eight years, establishing himself as the permanent voice of the band.
Since joining in November 2017, Gutt has recorded two studio albums with STP: their second self-titled album “Stone Temple Pilots” (2018) and the acoustic masterpiece Perdida (2020).
“Meadow,” the first single Gutt wrote with the band, was penned on his very first day in the studio, showcasing his natural chemistry with the DeLeo brothers and Kretz.
Born on May 2, 1976, in Marine City, Michigan, Gutt’s journey to joining Stone Temple Pilots reads like a Hollywood script.
He spent over 20 years playing in bands like Dry Cell, Dragonfly, Acrylic, and Band With No Name before gaining national attention on The X Factor in 2012 and 2013.
His stunning rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” brought judges Britney Spears, Simon Cowell, Demi Lovato, and L.A. Reid to their feet, with Cowell calling it “one of the most brilliant auditions I’ve heard.”
Though he finished second place in 2013, Gutt’s X Factor appearance ultimately led to his audition with Stone Temple Pilots three years later.
Fans attending STP concerts in 2024 and 2025 have praised Gutt’s ability to honor the legacy of Weiland and Bennington while bringing his own powerful baritone voice to the catalog.
“I feel like the best way to keep Scott’s memory alive is to go out and do the songs justice for him and his family, and for all the fans,” Gutt told Rolling Stone.
In January 2026, Gutt continues leading the members of Stone Temple Pilots on tour, with the band performing hits from across their entire discography while introducing newer material to devoted fans around the world.
Musical Legacy of Stone Temple Pilots Members
The members of Stone Temple Pilots left an indelible mark on rock music, transcending the grunge label often attached to them.
While they emerged during the early 1990s grunge explosion alongside Nirvana, Pearl Jam, and Alice in Chains, STP distinguished themselves through their musical versatility and sophisticated songwriting.
They achieved 16 top ten singles on the Billboard rock charts, with eight reaching number one, and scored a number one album with Purple in 1994.
The members of Stone Temple Pilots earned a Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance for “Plush” in 1993, along with American Music Awards for Favorite Pop/Rock New Artist and Heavy Metal/Hard Rock New Artist in 1994.
VH1 ranked them number 40 on their list of “The 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock,” cementing their place among rock’s elite.
Songwriting Contributions by Each Member
The collaborative songwriting among the members of Stone Temple Pilots created their distinctive sound.
Dean and Robert DeLeo served as the primary musical architects, co-writing most of the band’s instrumental arrangements.
Dean’s inventive guitar work combined elements of Led Zeppelin, The Doors, and psychedelic rock, while Robert’s sophisticated bass lines drew from rhythm and blues, lounge music, and ragtime.
Scott Weiland functioned as the band’s primary lyricist, his words evolving from societal commentary on Core to deeply personal explorations of addiction and relationships on later albums.
Songs like “Interstate Love Song” dealt with the toll his addiction took on his marriage to Janina Castaneda.
Eric Kretz made crucial songwriting contributions beyond his drumming, most notably writing the music to “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart” and co-writing the lyrics to “Plush” with Weiland.
The DeLeo brothers’ partnership with producer Brendan O’Brien proved essential to capturing STP’s sonic blueprint.
“Robert and I learned so much from him,” Dean DeLeo reflected about O’Brien.
“That relationship we forged with Brendan was really special on a personal level as well as a professional level.”
Side Projects and Solo Success Stories
During Stone Temple Pilots’ 2003-2008 hiatus, the members of Stone Temple Pilots pursued various successful side projects.
Scott Weiland joined the supergroup Velvet Revolver with Guns N’ Roses members Slash, Duff McKagan, and Matt Sorum, plus Dave Kushner.
They released two albums: Contraband (2004), which debuted at number one and sold over 3 million copies, and Libertad (2007).
Weiland also released two solo albums: “12 Bar Blues” (1998) and “Happy in Galoshes” (2008).
The DeLeo brothers and Eric Kretz formed Talk Show in 1997 during an earlier STP break, essentially STP minus Weiland with Dave Coutts on vocals.
Later, the DeLeos formed Army of Anyone with Filter’s Richard Patrick and drummer Ray Luzier, releasing their self-titled album in 2006 before going on hiatus in 2007.
Dean DeLeo has remained the most prolific in side projects, with Trip The Witch (2021) and One More Satellite (2025) showcasing his continuing creative evolution.
Robert DeLeo released his first solo album “Lessons Learned” in 2022 and is working on his second for 2026.
Eric Kretz operated his Bomb Shelter Studios and briefly joined Spiralarms during STP’s hiatus, though he’s remained focused primarily on the band and studio work.
📰 STAY UPDATED ON STP NEWS 📰
Get the latest updates on Stone Temple Pilots and classic rock!
Tour announcements, album releases, and band news.
Essential Stone Temple Pilots Albums Featuring Different Lineups
The discography of the members of Stone Temple Pilots showcases remarkable evolution across different eras and vocalists.
From the raw grunge power of Core to the acoustic introspection of Perdida, each album captures a distinct chapter in their journey.
🎸 ESSENTIAL STONE TEMPLE PILOTS ALBUMS 🎵
CORE (2017 REMASTER)
The album that started it all.
Released September 29, 1992, Core exploded onto the scene with “Sex Type Thing,” “Plush,” “Creep,” and “Wicked Garden.”
Featuring the original members of Stone Temple Pilots at their rawest and most hungry, this 8x Platinum masterpiece defined a generation and proved STP was more than just another grunge band.
The 2017 remaster brings new clarity to Brendan O’Brien’s legendary production.
CORE (ORIGINAL RELEASE)
The original pressing that changed rock forever.
This is the album exactly as the members of Stone Temple Pilots and producer Brendan O’Brien intended it to sound in 1992.
Winner of the 1993 Grammy Award for Best Hard Rock Performance for “Plush,” Core peaked at number 3 on the Billboard 200 and spent over 3 years on the charts.
An essential piece of ’90s rock history in its purest form.
PURPLE
The album that proved Core wasn’t a fluke.
Released June 7, 1994, Purple debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, selling three million copies immediately.
“Interstate Love Song,” “Vasoline,” and “Big Empty” showcased the members of Stone Temple Pilots expanding their sound with more melodic sophistication and psychedelic elements.
Many fans consider this their masterpiece.
TINY MUSIC… SONGS FROM THE VATICAN GIFT SHOP
The bold artistic left turn that divided critics but enchanted fans.
Released March 5, 1996, this album saw the members of Stone Temple Pilots abandoning grunge for glam rock, psychedelic experimentation, and ’60s-inspired pop.
“Big Bang Baby” and “Lady Picture Show” showcased a lighter, more playful side.
Rolling Stone featured the band on their cover in 1997, cementing this era’s cultural impact.
THANK YOU
The comprehensive greatest hits collection.
Released November 11, 2003, Thank You arrived as Atlantic Records’ capstone to the original members of Stone Temple Pilots’ first chapter together.
Featuring all the biggest hits plus rare B-sides and a bonus DVD of music videos and archive material, this collection is the perfect introduction to STP’s incredible catalog.
Essential for any classic rock collection.
MTV UNPLUGGED
An intimate acoustic revelation of hidden depths.
Filmed in 1993 but released years later, this performance captured the members of Stone Temple Pilots stripping down their hits to raw emotional cores.
They debuted “Big Empty” during this legendary session, proving their songs worked just as powerfully without the distortion and bombast.
A must-have document of ’90s alternative rock at its most vulnerable.
NO. 4
The triumphant return to heavy rock.
Released October 26, 1999, after Scott Weiland completed rehab, No. 4 marked the members of Stone Temple Pilots reclaiming their hard rock roots.
“Sour Girl” featuring Sarah McLachlan became an unexpected hit, while “Down” showcased their heaviest sound yet.
Debuting at number one, this album proved STP could survive personal turmoil and emerge stronger.
PERDIDA
An acoustic masterpiece showcasing new vocalist Jeff Gutt.
Released February 7, 2020, Perdida (Spanish for “loss”) found the members of Stone Temple Pilots exploring entirely new territory with their first all-acoustic album.
Recorded largely on vintage instruments, Jeff Gutt’s contributions as co-writer and vocalist shine throughout this introspective, haunting collection.
A bold artistic statement proving STP’s creative evolution continues.
🎸 SUPPORT CLASSIC ROCK ARTISTS 🎸
When you purchase through our Amazon affiliate links, you support this site at no additional cost to you.
This helps us continue bringing you in-depth articles about the members of Stone Temple Pilots and other classic rock legends.
All album recommendations are based on their musical merit and historical significance.
💡 Did You Know?
The members of Stone Temple Pilots released their second self-titled album in 2018 – their first with Jeff Gutt on vocals.
This marked only the second time in rock history that a major band released two separate self-titled albums, with the first being their 2010 reunion album with Scott Weiland!
Frequently Asked Questions About Stone Temple Pilots Members
Who were the original members of Stone Temple Pilots?
The original members of Stone Temple Pilots were Scott Weiland (lead vocals), Dean DeLeo (guitar), Robert DeLeo (bass), and Eric Kretz (drums).
This lineup formed in 1989 and remained completely unchanged until Scott Weiland’s firing in February 2013 – a remarkable 24-year run.
The DeLeo brothers and Eric Kretz continue as members of Stone Temple Pilots to this day.
Are any original members of Stone Temple Pilots still alive?
Yes, three of the four original members of Stone Temple Pilots are still alive and active: Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, and Eric Kretz.
Original vocalist Scott Weiland died on December 3, 2015, from an accidental drug overdose at age 48.
His replacement, Chester Bennington, tragically died by suicide on July 20, 2017.
Current vocalist Jeff Gutt has been with the band since November 2017 and continues leading the members of Stone Temple Pilots in 2026.
What are the members of Stone Temple Pilots doing now in 2026?
The current members of Stone Temple Pilots remain incredibly active in 2026.
Dean DeLeo just released his One More Satellite album with Pete Shoulder in July 2025 and is working on a second album for early 2026 while continuing to tour with STP.
Robert DeLeo is finishing his second solo album tentatively due in 2026, following up his 2022 release “Lessons Learned.”
Eric Kretz continues operating his Bomb Shelter Studios in Los Angeles while drumming for STP.
Jeff Gutt is leading Stone Temple Pilots on their 2026 tour, with confirmed festival appearances at Sonic Temple and ROCKIN’ THE ISLAND.
Why did Scott Weiland leave Stone Temple Pilots?
Scott Weiland didn’t leave – the members of Stone Temple Pilots fired him on February 27, 2013.
The decision came after decades of struggles with his substance abuse issues, which led to canceled shows, arrests, and unreliable behavior that made it impossible to maintain a touring and recording schedule.
Dean DeLeo later reflected: “Scott was in a very long-term decline.”
The DeLeo brothers and Kretz fought a legal battle for the rights to the Stone Temple Pilots name, ultimately winning in court.
Weiland continued performing with his solo band until his death in December 2015.
How many members has Stone Temple Pilots had?
The members of Stone Temple Pilots have included six people total across the band’s history:
Original members (1989-2013): Scott Weiland (vocals), Dean DeLeo (guitar), Robert DeLeo (bass), Eric Kretz (drums)
Second vocalist (2013-2015): Chester Bennington replaced Scott Weiland
Current vocalist (2017-present): Jeff Gutt
Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, and Eric Kretz have been constants since the band’s 1989 formation, making them the only members to appear on every Stone Temple Pilots album.
Who is the current lead singer of Stone Temple Pilots?
Jeff Gutt is the current lead singer of the members of Stone Temple Pilots, joining in November 2017.
The 49-year-old Michigan native beat out approximately 15,000 other candidates during an 18-month worldwide search.
Gutt previously appeared on The X Factor in 2012 and 2013, finishing second place with his stunning rendition of Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah.”
He has now recorded two albums with Stone Temple Pilots: their 2018 self-titled album and 2020’s acoustic masterpiece Perdida.
Fans and critics praise Gutt’s powerful baritone voice and his respectful approach to honoring the legacy of Scott Weiland while bringing his own artistry to the band.
Are the DeLeo brothers related?
Yes, Dean DeLeo and Robert DeLeo are brothers, with Dean being the older of the two.
Both were born and raised in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, before relocating to California.
Robert initially joined the band that would become the members of Stone Temple Pilots with Scott Weiland in 1985, then recruited his older brother Dean to join on guitar in 1989 after the previous guitarist left.
The DeLeo brothers’ musical chemistry and collaborative songwriting have been essential to Stone Temple Pilots’ distinctive sound throughout their entire career.
Together they’ve co-written most of STP’s instrumental arrangements and produced several of the band’s albums.
Did Chester Bennington sing for Stone Temple Pilots?
Yes, Chester Bennington served as the lead singer for the members of Stone Temple Pilots from May 2013 to November 2015.
He joined shortly after Scott Weiland’s firing, making his debut performance at the 21st Annual KROQ Weenie Roast on May 18, 2013.
During his tenure, Bennington recorded the five-track EP “High Rise” (2013) featuring the singles “Out of Time” and “Black Heart.”
He left amicably in November 2015 to focus on Linkin Park and his family, but always spoke highly of his time with STP.
Tragically, Chester Bennington died by suicide on July 20, 2017, leaving the rock world mourning one of its most powerful voices.
Want to dive deeper into classic rock bands and their stories?
Explore our complete discography guides and discover the albums that made the members of Stone Temple Pilots and other classic rock legends immortal.
Affiliate Disclosure
This article contains affiliate links to Amazon.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no additional cost to you.
This helps support the site and allows me to continue bringing you classic rock content about the members of Stone Temple Pilots and other legendary artists.
All album recommendations are based on their musical merit and historical significance.
Other Members of Rock Music Bands
Discover the stories behind more legendary rock bands:
Explore All Band Member Stories →Sources:
- Stone Temple Pilots – Wikipedia
- Stone Temple Pilots Official Website
- Stone Temple Pilots’ Robert DeLeo Discusses Second Solo Album – Blabbermouth
- Meet Jeff Gutt: The Singer Who Replaced Scott Weiland and Chester Bennington – Rolling Stone
- Stone Temple Pilots Introduce Jeff Gutt as New Lead Singer – Grammy.com
- Dean DeLeo: ‘Satellite’ of Love – Rock and Roll Globe
- Eric Kretz Drops Off Joe Perry Project Tour – American Songwriter
- Scott Weiland – Wikipedia
- Chester Bennington – Wikipedia
- Jeff Gutt – Wikipedia
Last updated: January 26, 2026
#Tags: #MembersOfStoneTemplePilots #StoneTemplePilotsMembers #ClassicRock #RockHistory #StoneTemplePilots #RockLegends #ClassicRockArtists #RockBands #MusicHistory #VintageRock #RockStars #90sMusic #RockBiography #ClassicRockBands #MusicLegends #RockIcon