About This Footage
The dusty corners of the 90s rock scene are slowly being excavated, and it's about time. This footage of Scott Weiland and Eric Kretz performing "Plush" in a Dutch studio is a rare gem that reveals the band's early days, before they became one of the biggest acts of the decade.
In February 1993, Stone Temple Pilots were still an up-and-coming band, fresh from releasing their debut album. They had just finished touring with Alice in Chains and Soundgarden, two bands that would later become part of the grunge movement's core. This performance, recorded for Dutch television's 2 Meter Sessies program, captures STP at a pivotal moment in their career.
The clip itself is a studio recording, but it has all the energy of a live show. Weiland's vocals are raw and emotive, his voice soaring on the chorus as Kretz provides a solid foundation on guitar. The chemistry between them is palpable, even if they're playing to an empty room. This performance is significant because it shows how STP was able to blend their heavy sound with catchy hooks, a formula that would serve them well throughout their career.
One of the most striking aspects of this footage is Weiland's stage presence. Even at this early stage in his career, he exudes confidence and charisma, moving effortlessly around the microphone stand as he belts out the lyrics. His voice is still developing its signature raspiness, but it's already clear that he's a force to be reckoned with.
This performance of "Plush" is also notable because it highlights the band's ability to craft memorable songs. Written by Dean DeLeo, Robert DeLeo, Eric Kretz, and Scott Weiland, "Plush" would go on to become one of STP's biggest hits, reaching number 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1994. This early version is a stripped-down take on the song, but it already showcases its potential as a hit single.
For fans of Stone Temple Pilots, this footage is a must-watch. It provides a unique glimpse into the band's early days and shows how they developed their sound over time. Even for those who are new to STP, this performance is worth watching simply because it's a great example of 90s rock at its best – raw, energetic, and unapologetic.
As Weiland's voice soars on the chorus, he looks up at Kretz with a nod of approval. The chemistry between them is clear, even in a small studio setting. This performance may be over 25 years old, but it still has the power to captivate audiences today. It's a testament to STP's enduring legacy and a reminder that some of the best rock music comes from the most unlikely places – in this case, a Dutch television studio in 1993.
Curated from public records and music databases.