Robert De Leo (Stone Temple Pilots) on the Journey to His Debut Solo Album ‘Lessons Learned’

In terms of alternative music, there can be fewer key contributors to some of its biggest songs than Robert De Leo. A key songwriter for US alt/grunge superstars Stone Temple Pilots, De Leo is now branching out on his own with the release of his debut solo album, Lessons Learned (October 21st).

Recently, V13 sat down with Robert for a chat about the album, why now was the right time for him to write and record his debut solo effort, and why he took the opportunity away from writing in one of the biggest rock bands of the last thirty years.

Thanks for your time, Robert; you’re gearing up for your debut solo album. How are things going in the last few weeks?

Robert De Leo: “Thank you for having me. Busy with a capital B! It’s a productive busy, though, and I am looking forward to unveiling my record.”

You’ve been a member of STP since 1989, why was now the right time to release your debut solo album?

“I have tried to start a solo record in the past but never really finished because of other things that were going on. I am happy I waited, though. I have more to say now with the passing of time, age and experience. It makes for a deeper journey told.”

Given that you’ve been the principal songwriter in STP for so long, what does this album offer you as a vehicle for your music that STP doesn’t?

“It’s a more personal experience for me, and it’s been quite a satisfying time taking on the writing, bass and guitar playing, vocals (‘Is This Goodbye’), back vocals (‘Big Sky Woman,’ ‘She Brings The Rain,’ ‘Lessons Learned,’ ‘What Will Be,’ ‘Everything’) as well as percussion, occasional keyboards, percussion, production and arranging.”

As the main songwriter, did you write these songs specifically in mind for a solo record, or did they not fit in with STP?

“These were written for me, sort of a diary or journal to/for myself. Over the past couple of years, the world stopped and allowed for much spare time. I initially set out to reconnect with my acoustic guitar playing, and songs started coming from that.”

Artwork for ‘Lessons Learned’ by Robert De Leo

What does it feel like knowing these songs, people will associate with you as an artist in your own right and not associate with the band?

“Things always get misconstrued being in a band. I always set out to be a songwriter, and that’s what I prefer to be known as. I think people will get a very intimate look at my songwriting by listening to this record.”

You’ve talked about the album soundtracking moments for the listener; what do you hope they get out of listening to the record?

“I think the sentiment of this record is universal, and everyone feels love lost, love gained and the pull of pain and heartache that goes with that. Everybody experiences that eternal question of what love really is. This record is my version of that.”

You’ve also talked about the last few years of your life, revealing many changes. Can you talk us through some of those changes? Further to that, going through those changes, related to the album title, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?

“I’ve learned many. Being a musician is a constant question of curse or gift, and sometimes your heart leads you in many different directions when you are one. I am still learning.”

Robert De Leo courtesy of Robert De Leo

And, on a similar note, what is the biggest lesson you’ve learned as a songwriter?

“Being a songwriter to me is such a gift that I always cherish and never take for granted. It’s a form of being there for yourself, to remain willing to walk down many different paths of emotion. Writing songs is sort of a form of immortality. Songs will outlive all of us. It’s a fantastic feeling to complete my own record.”

Now the record is due out in a couple of weeks, what are your plans for the rest of 2022 and into 2023? Have you thought about future releases as a solo artist?

“More STP, hopefully, Canada in the near future and more solo endeavours.”

And on the subject of the current single ‘Love Is Not Made of Gold,’ what is the one thing you think people will love most about Lessons Learned and what is the one thing you love most about the album?

“I think everyone will relate to the sentiment and intimacy of this record. The overall theme of it is a universal one that we all have felt. It’s been quite a journey.”

Thanks for your time, Robert, and good luck with the album. Over to you to wrap this up…

“Thank you so much. Lessons Learned. Out on October 21st, hope you all enjoy, and much love to everyone. Thank you.”