Released on June 7, 1994, Purple arrived with the roar of a jet engine and the grace of a psychedelic fairytale. Stone Temple Pilots were already stars after Core, but Purple launched them into a new stratosphere. The album debuted at #1 on the Billboard 200, sold over six million copies, and gave us unforgettable tracks like “Vasoline,” “Interstate Love Song,” and “Big Empty.”
From its mythical artwork to its lightning-fast creation, Purple remains one of the most memorable albums of the 1990s.
1. They Recorded It in Less Than a Month
The band finished the entire album—recording, mixing, and mastering—in about three and a half weeks. They tracked it live with a PA system to keep the energy raw. They played basketball and wiffle ball between takes. That sense of looseness and momentum runs through every song.
2. “Pretty Penny” Was Recorded in a Living Room
For this dreamy acoustic number, Brendan O’Brien brought the band into a house with an old eight-track tape machine. They performed it live in the living room, capturing the warmth and intimacy in one session. No studio magic, just great playing and great atmosphere.
3. The Album Cover Has Its Own Language
Purple’s cover features a child riding a Qilin, a legendary creature in Chinese folklore, surrounded by fairies. The title is written in Chinese (紫), which means “purple.” The track list? Not on the back cover. Instead, there’s a decorated cake that reads “12 Gracious Melodies,” hinting at the album’s hidden twelfth track.
4. “Vasoline” Came From a Childhood Misheard Lyric
Scott Weiland once thought the Eagles’ “Life in the Fast Lane” said “Flies in the Vaseline.” That moment stuck with him. The song reflects the feeling of being trapped and overexposed. Robert DeLeo’s bass runs through a wah-wah pedal for that unforgettable intro tone.
5. “Interstate Love Song” Was Done in One Take
Scott Weiland recorded the vocals for “Interstate Love Song” in a single take. The track became one of the biggest rock hits of the decade, staying at #1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart for 15 straight weeks. It started as a soft bossa nova sketch and turned into a rock anthem built for long drives and big feelings.
Purple still sounds fresh, bold, and full of surprises. Every listen feels like opening a time capsule sealed with melody, emotion, and sonic ambition. Happy anniversary to a truly gracious collection of songs.