Creed Takes Us Higher: Original Lineup Delivers a Night for the Ages At Hard Rock Live In Hollywood, Florida

By Larry Marano

Creed took me higher than I ever expected. Watching the original lineup perform at Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, Fla., on Dec. 19, 2025, was nothing short of masterful—two sold-out shows that proved this band still has it, even after wrapping up their two-year tour with their "Creedmas" holiday performances.

What struck me most was Scott Stapp's resilience. Though he was a little under the weather, his voice soared with power and clarity; you'd never have known he was under the weather. During "One," he paused to speak about unity, reminding us all that we must stick together as a country—a moment that resonated deeply in that packed venue.

Mark Tremonti's iconic guitar riffs cut through the air with precision, while pyrotechnics punctuated the evening's drama. But beyond the spectacle, what truly mattered was the music itself. These songs—the ones that defined a generation—sounded as tight and vital as ever. The band's chemistry was undeniable, each member locked in perfect sync.

The setlist moved seamlessly from anthems like "My Own Prison" to the soaring crescendo of "With Arms Wide Open," each track met with thunderous applause. Brian Marshall's bass lines provided the foundation that anchored every song, while Scott Phillips' drumming drove the performance forward with relentless energy. The crowd sang every word, their voices blending with Stapp's in moments that felt almost spiritual.

As the final notes of "Higher" rang out through the venue, it was clear this wasn't just nostalgia at work—this was a band that has earned its place in rock history and refuses to rest on those laurels.

It wasn't just a concert. It was a reminder of why Creed's music endures.

All images by Larry Marano: