photos and review by: Tom Rentz
The Creed Summer of '99 tour, held at the Schottenstein Center in Columbus, Ohio, on July 20, was a highly anticipated event, featuring three notable rock acts: Mammoth WVH, Daughtry, and, of course, Creed. Each band brought a distinct energy and musical flair that contributed to an unforgettable night.
It's interesting to note that while the Creed Summer of '99 tour generated some excited buzz, 3 Doors Down wasn't part of the lineup, which surprised a few fans.
3 Doors Down lead singer Brian Arnold had to cancel their tour dates due to health-related issues. The band's lead singer, who has faced personal health challenges, was diagnosed with cancer and needed to prioritize recovery, leading to the decision to cancel performances to ensure everyone's well-being. Fans were disappointed but expressed understanding and support for the band's decision to prioritize health.
Still, with Mammoth WVH, Daughtry, and Creed themselves on stage, the night had plenty of rocking moments to keep fans thrilled.
Mammoth WVH, one of my favorite bands, opened the concert with a stunning performance that highlighted their innovative sound.
Mammoth WVH is the solo project of Wolfgang Van Halen, the son of legendary guitar player Eddie Van Halen. The name "Mammoth" is a tribute to the original band that Eddie formed before Van Halen. WVH stands for Wolfgang Van Halen. His self-titled debut album, released in June 2021, showcases his talents not only as a guitarist but also as a vocalist, bassist, and drummer, reflecting a wide range of rock influences. The album features tracks such as "Distance," a heartfelt tribute to his late father, and "Don't Back Down," a high-energy anthem that showcases Wolfgang's impressive guitar skills and vocal range. It has received positive acclaim, highlighting his songwriting abilities. Wolfgang's music combines elements of hard rock with more melodic sounds, drawing inspiration from his rock heritage while also creating a unique identity. He has expressed his desire to forge his path, which has resonated with fans old and new. The project has received praise for its authenticity and Wolfgang's impressive musicality. The band brought an infectious energy to the stage, engaging the crowd and leaving a lasting impression as they carved their niche in the modern rock scene.
Following Mammoth WVH, Daughtry took the stage with a commanding presence. Fronted by Chris Daughtry, who gained fame as a finalist on "American Idol," the band has consistently delivered radio-friendly rock anthems since their formation. Their set was a mix of emotional ballads and high-energy tracks, including hits like "It's Not Over" and "Over You." Daughtry's powerful vocals and charismatic performance style electrified the audience, encouraging sing-alongs and enthusiastic reactions. The band connected deeply with the crowd, emphasizing themes of resilience and love in their lyrics. Daughtry's musicianship and stage dynamics created a rich auditory experience, making every note count.
Finally, the moment that my team and everyone in the arena had been waiting for arrived as Creed took to the stage. Never having the opportunity to cover and photograph Creed, my adrenaline was running high. The lights went down, and as the powerful light show took command, Creed took the stage, kicking it into high gear immediately. The iconic band, known for their anthemic sounds and impactful lyrics, drew immediate cheers from a packed house. With Scott Stapp's soaring, distinctive vocals leading the charge, Creed delivered a set filled with their greatest hits, including "Higher," "My Sacrifice," and "With Arms Wide Open." The band's live performance was immersive, with stunning lighting, pyrotechnics, and visuals that enhanced the emotional weight of the songs. Each track resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom were transported back to the band's heyday in the early 2000s. Mark Tremonti's intricate guitar work and the tight rhythm section of Brian Marshall on bass and Scott Phillips on drums created an unforgettable soundscape that filled the arena.
Scott Stapp, the lead singer of Creed, is celebrated for his powerful and emotive vocal style, which helped define the band's sound throughout the late 1990s and early 2000s. With a deep, resonant voice and a passionate delivery, he possesses a remarkable ability to convey a wide range of emotions through his music, making him an incredibly captivating frontman. His dynamic and heartfelt approach to singing engages the audience on a personal level. Stapp infuses every song with sincerity and intensity, striking a chord with fans.
In concert, Scott Stapp often interacts warmly with the crowd, sharing personal stories and reflections that deepen the audience's connection to the music. His passion for performing is undeniable. His ability to evoke strong emotional responses adds layers to the live experience, creating an atmosphere that feels both intimate and grand.
Together, these three acts showcased a journey through the evolution of rock music, with Mammoth WVH's fresh energy, Daughtry's powerful anthems, and Creed's nostalgic classics coming together for an electrifying event that left lasting memories for both old and new fans. Each band contributed its unique style to the evening, culminating in a celebration of rock music and live performance that resonated throughout the Schottenstein Center.