Mon Sep 23 17:26:56 UTC 2024: ## Creed: From Meme-Target to Stadium Headliners

Creed, once the butt of internet jokes, is experiencing a surprising resurgence in popularity, fueled by a perfect storm of nostalgia, irony, and meme culture. While the band hasn’t released a new studio album in 15 years, they’ve recently climbed the charts, sold out tours, and even launched a second annual “Creed Cruise”.

This unexpected comeback can be attributed to the band’s newfound meme status. Online, Creed is a comedic goldmine, with users creating countless jokes about frontman Scott Stapp’s distinctive vocal style and the band’s often-ridiculed music. This ironic embrace has, in a strange twist, led to genuine interest in their music, particularly among younger audiences who weren’t around for the band’s original 90s heyday.

“Time + cringe = popularity,” says YouTuber Pat Finnerty, whose channel critiques bands like Creed. He argues that the band’s music is now viewed through a lens of irony, making it more appealing and even “funnier for them to get into it.”

The band’s resurgence extends beyond memes. Creed’s music, particularly their hit “Higher”, resonated with sports fans, becoming a rallying cry for the Texas Rangers during their 2022 World Series run. The band also seems to have tapped into a conservative audience, with Stapp’s recent political commentary resonating with some.

Creed’s journey from meme-target to stadium headliners highlights the power of internet culture in shaping musical tastes. What started as jokes and ridicule has turned into a full-fledged comeback, proving that even the most mocked bands can find new life in the ever-evolving landscape of online trends.

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