In tribute, Stone Temple Pilots’ remaining original members returned to the studio to reminisce over a recording of the group’s song Atlanta which highlighted the late former frontman Scott Weiland’s strong, emotive vocals.
Guitarist Dean DeLeo, bassist Robert DeLeo, and drummer Eric Kretz explained that they decided to share the song after reflecting on the “amazing times” the band had with Weiland. “We put the master up of a song called ‘Atlanta’ from the No. 4 record that we feel really highlights the true brilliance of Scott. We would like to share it with you,” said the remaining members in a statement to Rolling Stone.
Weiland’s spine-tingling voice resonates throughout the multi-track recording of Atlanta, which came out in 1999. “This is one song in particular that hits me the same way that it did the day that we recorded it,” said Kretz in the video. “I love how he crafts such great lyrics, the melody, and the true and honest tone in his voice. It’s truly something special.”
The song comes from the band’s fourth record entitled simply No. 4 featuring singles Down and Sour Girl. Weiland wrote the song with guitarist DeLeo.
No. 4 marked a reunion for Stone Temple Pilots after a hiatus due in part to issues with Weiland’s drug addiction. The record did well commercially, though, and the single Down received a Grammy nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance.
Weiland died on December 3, due to complications from his addiction to drugs, at the age of 48. He was found on his tour bus in Bloomington, MN while touring with his band The Wildabouts.
“You were gifted beyond words, Scott,” said his Stone Temple Pilots bandmates in an open letter (via Rolling Stone). “Part of that gift was part of your curse. With deep sorrow for you and your family, we are saddened to see you go.”
