"Creed, the renowned band, allegedly penned part of their hit song during a live performance in front of approximately 50 attendees, as asserted in the anecdote"
In August 1999, Creed released the song "Higher" as the lead single from their album Human Clay. Little did the audience know, this song was born out of improvisation during one of the band's early live performances.
During a concert, drummer Scott Phillips initiated "Higher" with a 4/4 beat at around 155bpm. Singer Scott Stapp, inspired by the moment, encouraged the band to improvise. This spontaneous creation then developed into the full song, with Stapp vocally improvising lyrics during an instrumental break.
This improvisational origin gave "Higher" a special dynamic quality in live shows, often becoming a centerpiece where the band would expand the song creatively with extended jams and call-and-response segments with the audience, amplifying its emotional impact.
The process had a significant influence on their live performances, as "Higher" effectively became an anthem that showcased the band's ability to connect deeply with the crowd. The song's structure allowed for live improvisation, making each rendition unique and energizing, which helped elevate their concerts and cemented the band's reputation for powerful live rock performances.
Over the years, "Higher" has continued to have a powerful effect on audiences. Since Creed reunited in 2009, the song has remained a staple in their setlist. It has even transcended the realm of music, becoming a sporting anthem. Texas Rangers pitcher Andrew Heaney revealed that his team listened to Creed before big games in their 2023 playoff run.
Mark Tremonti, the band's guitarist, believes that writing "Higher" on stage helped make it more suitable for live performances. He isn't certain about the gear used for the Human Clay sessions, but it may have included a Mesa/Boogie Rectifier for distorted tones and Fender Twins for cleans. The guitar used in the "Higher" music video was a PRS, but the recording likely used a Gibson Les Paul.
Tremonti isn't just a musician; he's a firm believer in the magic of music. He stated that music is the most magical thing in the world and the closest thing we have to magic. He also emphasized that writing new songs should aim to make them more challenging or fun for live performances.
The chorus of "Higher" was about reflecting on and achieving a lifelong dream, as well as creating an idealistic ambition to create heaven on earth. Stapp later revealed that his view of heaven on earth at the time he penned the lyrics was naive, ego-driven, and focused on self-fulfillment.
Creed's material differs from Tremonti's other band Alter Bridge, with more clean guitar parts. "Higher" wasn't included in Creed's 1997 debut album My Own Prison, but was ready for their 1999 follow-up album, Human Clay. Tremonti contributed a Drop-D major riff for "Higher," using the open position, seventh, and fifth frets, with some embellishments on the G-string.
In conclusion, "Higher" is more than just a song; it's a testament to the power of improvisation and the band's ability to connect with their audience. Its enduring popularity on tours and its transformation into a sporting anthem are a testament to its impact and relevance.
The spontaneous creation of "Higher" during a live performance in 1999 served as a powerful entertainment piece, where its improvised nature and emotional impact became apparent. Today, the song transcends the music realm, providing inspiration to sports teams like the Texas Rangers, who listen to Creed before big games.
