Anthony Scott Flippen, later known as Scott Stapp, was born in a strict religious environment, which led him to seek freedom. One night, he snuck out of his home and stayed at a friend's house for a month before returning. As a child, he was forced to copy the Bible as punishment.
Stapp attempted to impress his father by attending Lee University in Tennessee, but he was caught smoking marijuana and expelled. He then moved to Tallahassee to attend Florida State University, where he met Jon Morrison of The Doors, who had previously attended the university.
Stapp reconnected with his old friend Mark Tremonti and started jamming on guitar. In 1995, they formed a band with drummer Scott Phillips and bassist Brian Marshall, originally named "Naked Toddler," which was later changed to Creed at Brian Marshall's suggestion.
In September 2000, Brian Marshall left the band. Creed's highest-selling album, "Human Clay," is certified diamond by the RIAA. The band officially disbanded on June 4, 2004, and the remaining members formed the band Alter Bridge.
Stapp cites The Doors, particularly Jim Morrison, as one of his primary musical influences. He performed with the surviving members of The Doors for a televised concert in 1999 and again on the tribute album "Stoned Immaculate: The Music of the Doors."
Stapp lives in Miami with his wife, Jaclyn Stapp. After leaving Creed, he pursued a solo career and released his debut album, "The Great Divide," in 2005. He contributed a song to the album "The Passion of the Christ: Songs" prior to his solo debut.
In December 2008, Stapp met with Mark Tremonti at the Hard Rock Hotel in Florida, and they reconciled. They soon reunited with drummer Scott Phillips and bassist Brian Marshall, agreeing to put past differences aside and reunite as Creed.
After months of speculation, Creed officially confirmed their reunion on their website on April 27, 2009. A new album and US tour were announced, with the tour running from August 6 to October 14, 2009. The new album, titled "Full Circle," was set to be released on October 27, 2009.
