Stone Temple Pilots “Vasoline” on the Howard Stern Show in 2000

About This Footage

Scott Weiland's 2000 performance of "Vasoline" on the Howard Stern Show is a rare gem, a fleeting glimpse into the band's live energy at a pivotal moment in their career. The footage captures the raw, unbridled intensity that defined Stone Temple Pilots' early work.

In 2000, STP was riding high on the success of their second album, "Purple," which had spawned hits like "Vasoline" and "Big Empty." Weiland's distinctive vocals were at the forefront of the band's sound, a fusion of grunge and alternative rock that resonated with a generation. This performance on the Howard Stern Show, broadcast to a massive audience, was a testament to their growing popularity.

What makes this clip so notable is Weiland's eccentric stage presence. Dressed in a gas mask and rubber gloves, he embodies the band's offbeat spirit, channeling the angst and rebellion that defined their music. The performance itself is high-energy, with Weiland's voice soaring above the instrumentation as he belts out the song's catchy hooks.

The Howard Stern Show was more than just a platform for STP to showcase their talents; it was also a proving ground for the band's growing fan base. By appearing on the show, they were able to tap into Stern's massive following, exposing themselves to an audience hungry for new music and edgy content. This performance marked a turning point in STP's career, cementing their status as one of the leading bands of the late 1990s.

Weiland's tenure with Stone Temple Pilots was marked by both creative highs and personal struggles. His distinctive vocals were the backbone of the band's sound, but his own demons often threatened to derail their progress. Despite these challenges, STP continued to produce critically acclaimed music, releasing several albums that showcased Weiland's impressive range.

The "Vasoline" performance on the Howard Stern Show is a rare example of Weiland's live energy during this period. Unlike some of the band's later work, which was often marred by internal conflicts and creative differences, this clip captures STP at their most raw and unbridled. It's a testament to the band's ability to connect with audiences on a primal level, tapping into the same emotions that drove their fans to latch onto their music.

Watching this footage today, it's clear why Scott Weiland was such an integral part of Stone Temple Pilots' sound. His unique vocal style and stage presence helped define the band's early work, setting them apart from their grunge contemporaries. Even in a live performance like this one, Weiland's voice is unmistakable, conveying a sense of urgency and passion that's hard to replicate.

The "Vasoline" clip on the Howard Stern Show may be just 3:22 minutes long, but it's a powerful reminder of STP's enduring influence. Even as the band's members went their separate ways, Weiland's legacy continued to shape the music world. This performance is a fleeting glimpse into that era, a snapshot of a moment in time when Stone Temple Pilots were at the height of their powers.

Curated from public records and music databases.