During a performance in front of a modest audience, Creed reportedly declared they would compose a song live on stage, and it appears that a significant part of their breakthrough hit may have been formulated during that gig.
In the heart of Tallahassee, Florida, a spiritually infused rock song took shape in 1994. This was none other than Creed's breakthrough hit, "Higher." Born during the band's early struggles to fill out their set, "Higher" embodied a vaguely spiritual and uplifting vibe that would later resonate broadly[1].
As part of Creed's creative process before achieving mainstream success, "Higher" was first released five years later and became their defining anthem. Its anthemic nature and uplifting message helped it resonate beyond the music scene, leading to its widespread adoption as a sporting anthem[3]. The energetic, motivational chorus—"Can you take me higher?"—captures a universal desire for elevation and achievement, making it perfect for sports environments where fans and players are inspired to reach new heights.
The song's spiritual overtones and soaring melody contribute to its role in energizing and uniting crowds, which is why it became common at sporting events. One such instance was during a fixture against the Houston Astros, where fans were encouraged to sing along, and the band members themselves made an appearance[2].
Mark Tremonti, the band's guitarist, contributed a Drop-D major riff for "Higher," using the open position, the seventh and fifth frets, and embellishments on the G-string[4]. He believes that "Higher" benefitted from being born on stage, as it gives a sense of how it will sound live[5]. It was ready for inclusion in Creed's 1999 follow-up album, Human Clay, but was not part of their 1997 debut album, My Own Prison[6].
Tremonti isn't exactly sure what gear was used for the Human Clay sessions, but it may have been a Mesa/Boogie Rectifier for the distorted tones and Fender Twins for the cleans[7]. The chorus of "Higher" was sung by Scott Stapp, and it was about reflecting on and achieving a lifelong dream, as well as creating an idealistic ambition to create heaven on earth[8]. "Higher" peaked at No.7 and spent a total of 57 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100[9].
Fast forward to 2023, Texas Rangers pitcher Andrew Heaney revealed that his team listened to Creed before the big games of their playoff run, with "Higher" being a particular favourite[10]. Since Creed reunited in 2009, "Higher" has continued to have a powerful effect on audiences[11].
In an interview with MusicRadar, Tremonti noted how Creed's material differed to that of his other band Alter Bridge, with more clean guitar parts - calling for a fingerstyle approach during the quieter verses followed by the "big hammer wall of power chords" that arrive soon after[12]. He also believes that writing at soundchecks can be very helpful because the musicians on stage know exactly how it's going to feel with the whole band in an arena, theatre or wherever they've been booked to play[13]. Drummer Scott Phillips initiated "Higher" with a simple 4/4 beat at around 155bpm[14].
In summary, "Higher" came to life organically during Creed's formative years as a spiritually infused rock song and eventually took on a larger cultural role as an energizing anthem embraced widely in sports due to its uplifting and inspirational message[1][3]. Today, it continues to inspire and unite crowds, making it a timeless addition to Creed's repertoire.
Entertainment transcends boundaries, and music is a universal language that connects us all. "Higher," Creed's defining anthem, embodies this sentiment with its uplifting message, transcending the music scene to gain popularity in sports events as well.
