The singer helping a classic rock band roll on without their legendary frontman
Jeff Gutt on fronting Stone Temple Pilots, his STP audition, competing on "The X Factor."
Liam Carter 
Stone Temple Pilots have found their rhythm with current frontman Jeff Gutt. Nearly nine years ago, the Southern California rock icons—famed for '90s staples like “Plush,” “Vasoline,” and “Interstate Love Song”—officially brought the Michigan native into the fold. It has proven to be a seamless transition for a band aiming to keep its legacy alive.
The Legacy of Scott Weiland
Replacing the late, great Scott Weiland is a monumental task. Weiland was a true rock original, celebrated for his chameleonic vocal style and poetic lyrics. Following Weiland's passing in 2015 at age 48, the band faced the challenge of moving forward while honoring their history.
A Perfect Fit
Gutt, 50, brings a vocal resonance that captures the essence of the band's catalog. Alongside the core trio of Robert DeLeo (bass), Dean DeLeo (guitar), and Eric Kretz (drums), the group maintains the signature sound that defined their career. Gutt describes performing the band's classic hits for multigenerational audiences as a profound experience, noting, “Being able to go out there and share those songs with people who love those songs” is the highlight of his role.
Catch the Band Live
Currently, Stone Temple Pilots are hitting the amphitheater circuit as special guests on “The Rise Of Rock World Tour,” sharing the stage with Godsmack and Dorothy. Alabama fans can catch them this weekend: the tour stops at Huntsville’s Orion Amphitheater on Saturday, followed by Sunday at Orange Beach’s Wharf Amphitheater.
Reflecting on the Road
In a recent interview, Gutt discussed the evolution of his role, his initial audition at the Foo Fighters' Studio 606, and the camaraderie he shares with his bandmates. He credits his early inspirations—such as Layne Staley, Chris Cornell, and Eddie Vedder—with shaping the way he approaches vocal performance today.
Looking toward the future, Gutt remains focused on the present. While the band continues to write new material, their current live sets remain a celebration of a storied discography. Whether it's the high-energy delivery of “Trippin’ on a Hole in a Paper Heart” or the deeper cuts from recent albums like Perdida, Gutt says he is just grateful for the chance to contribute to the band’s lasting impact.
