What makes What If by Creed notable?

The song 'What If' reached notable chart positions, peaking at number 2 on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Its radio success helped further establish Creed's presence in the mainstream rock landscape during an era when post-grunge was gaining traction. Released in January 2000, What If marked a transitional moment for Creed as they were solidifying their status following the massive success of their previous album, Human Clay. This single was pivotal in maintaining their commercial momentum as they approached the peak of their popularity in the rock scene.

How many songs are on What If?

What If has 3 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

What If

Creed · 2000

13 min · 3 tracks · alternative rock

An emotive blend of soaring melodies and heavy guitar riffs that encapsulates the post-grunge sound of the early 2000s.

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Top tracks — play these first

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What If (album version) — This track showcases Creed's signature sound with its introspective lyrics and powerful instrumentation, embodying the themes of existential questioning that permeate the album.
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What If (radio edit) — The radio edit brings a more concise and accessible version of the original, highlighting its melodic hooks while still retaining the emotional weight of the lyrics.
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I'm Eighteen — A cover of Alice Cooper's classic, this track illustrates Creed's ability to reinterpret iconic rock songs and introduce them to a new generation, blending nostalgia with contemporary hard rock elements.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The single showcases solid songwriting and production typical of its era but lacks depth for lasting appeal.

What we noticed

The single features a prominent guitar riff that drives the melody, with layered vocals that build intensity throughout.
The album version and radio edit differ primarily in length, with the radio edit being more concise and focused on the chorus.
The final track, 'I'm Eighteen', serves as a cover that contrasts with the original material, introducing a different energy.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This single solidified Creed's mainstream presence after their previous success.
Career context: Released in January 2000, What If marked a transitional moment for Creed as they were solidifying their status following the massive success of their previous album, Human Clay. This single was pivotal in maintaining their commercial momentum as they approached the peak of their popularity in the rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Nickelback· Puddle of Mudd· Alter Bridge