Creed is currently experiencing a resurgence in popularity, especially on the internet. On Instagram, the band has been repurposed as a comedic device to critique President Joe Biden. On TikTok, videos are circulating imagining what it would be like to explain Creed to an alien race, while on X, the band serves as an easy punchline for political commentary. These memes are collectively accumulating millions of likes, views, and shares.
If Charli XCX had not declared 2024 as a “brat summer,” it could be considered Scott Stapp season in the realm of memes. Scott Stapp, the frontman of Creed, is aware of this newfound attention. He shared that he has seen many memes, some of which he finds hilarious and heartwarming based on the effort fans have put into creating them.
The most surprising aspect is not just that Creed is being widely memed but that the memes are reviving the band. In 2024, Creed transitioned from an internet joke to a bona fide, record-selling rock band. By June, the band re-entered the top 40 charts, and last month, their “Greatest Hits” album saw a significant increase in sales.
Due to their unexpected resurgence, Creed is back on tour, playing sold-out shows with other post-grunge bands like 3 Doors Down. They are also selling tickets for arena gigs at prices upwards of $100. Additionally, their annual Miami-to-Nassau “Creed cruise” in 2025 has tickets priced at $4,300, which have already sold out.
While it is not uncommon for old music to find new audiences, often aided by the internet, Creed’s situation is distinctive. The band has not released a new studio album in 15 years and has often been the subject of internet mockery. By industry standards, Creed was considered bygone.
Ken Fermaglich, Creed’s agent, stated that in 2020, they had not toured since 2012. He found it intriguing to witness the renewed interest and revival of their songs. The obvious questions arise: Why is this happening now?
YouTuber Pat Finnerty, who hosts the channel “What Makes This Song Stink,” which critiques bands like Creed, believes that the equation for Creed’s comeback is time plus cringe equals popularity. Finnerty suggests that after surpassing the 20-year mark, old bands can start to feel new again. He adds that the shift in meme culture from labeling the band as “sucks” to “fucks” has contributed to Creed’s revived popularity.
