Creed burst onto the rock scene in the mid-1990s, bringing emotional intensity and catchy choruses that quickly made them a radio favorite. Their rise to fame seemed fast, but opinions on their artistic value were mixed. Despite the debates, Creed became a defining band of the post-grunge era.
The band started as a bar group, and their journey wasn’t instant. Their debut album, *My Own Prison*, was recorded independently and released through Blue Collar Records. Initially, only 6,000 copies were made, and they relied on grassroots promotion and live shows. Things changed when Wind-Up Records took notice. The album peaked on the charts and stayed there longer than many others, eventually selling over 6 million copies and earning 6× Platinum certification. Four singles from the album made a significant impact on radio, with “My Own Prison” marking their first entry on the Hot 100 in 1998.
In 1999, *Human Clay* propelled Creed to new heights. The album sold 315,000 copies in its first week and went on to sell over 11.7 million in the U.S. alone, with worldwide sales surpassing 20 million. Billboard later ranked it among the top albums of the time. Hits like “Higher” and “With Arms Wide Open” not only topped rock charts but also reached a broader audience, solidifying the band’s place in mainstream music.
“Higher” became a cultural phenomenon, heard everywhere from bars to dorms. It was Creed’s first top-10 hit on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at No. 7 and holding the record for the longest chart run of any Creed song. The track also spent 17 weeks at the top of both the Modern Rock and Mainstream Rock charts. Creed’s journey from local band to rock icons is a testament to their impact on the music scene.
