SCOTT STAPP’s Rock-Fueled Western, “Deadman’s Trigger: A Short Film”, Out Now

Grammy winning songwriter, solo artist, and Creed frontman SCOTT STAPP has released Deadman’s Trigger: A Short Film. The 9 minute, 13 second short co-stars Scott Stapp & Anthony Stapp, directed by Tyler Dunning Evans, with music by SCOTT STAPP. The film features “Deadman’s Trigger,” the 3^rd single from chart-topping solo album Higher Power (Napalm Records) – the track is climbing the rock charts now after two consecutive radio hits – “Higher Power” and “Black Butterfly” reached Top Ten and Top Five, respectively. 

As the inspiration and soundtrack for the father/son saga, “Deadman’s Trigger” is an explosive track that pulses with sonic swagger, anguish, and idealism. 

Billboard marvels at Stapp’s loaded schedule as a solo artist and voice of Creed who’s “job description now includes starring as an action hero in a short film.” Executive Director, Jason Lipshutz continues:

“In the middle of another successful touring season for his reunited band Creed, SCOTT STAPP has offered something unexpected: a 9-minute, high-octane short film, in which he stars as a man of faith who, Lord forgive him, has to go back to the old him.” 

The rock-fueled Western was shot over two days at Whitehorse Ranch in Landers, CA. It’s a classic Hollywood show-down as a man of faith, haunted by unspeakable nightmares and villains, is forced to take matters into his own hands when what he loves is threatened. In a hail of Hellfire he protects, and is saved in return, by an unlikely hero.

Online speculation about the premiere began when a live-action trailer framed by film credits appeared on Monday (7/28). In it, a fully-loaded cowboy strolls frame as Old West music conjures Doc Holliday, cracked earth, and tumbleweeds. Their questions were answered when Deadman’s Trigger: A Short Film premiered Thursday, July 31, exclusively on YouTube. 

Director Tyler Dunning Evans says:

“Adapting Scott’s storyline for the screen was easy because he is a narrative songwriter – the arc is already there. As a collaborator, he’s clear on his vision and values other creators’ expertise. With Anthony on-set and Milan working behind the scenes, Scott was hands-on in establishing safety measures and his love for his kids translated to a vulnerable but fierce performance in the final cut.”

On the Higher Power album: 

Stapp is “primed for a big decade, sounding as powerful as he did at half his age with a sense of newfound heaviness resting beneath his iconic voice” (Loudwire).

“With 10 huge, earnest, soaring, anthemic tracks, Higher Power is everything you love about Scott Stapp.” (Esquire)

“Higher Power is Stapp’s most complete solo offering to date — growling and energetic, but also admirably reflective” (Billboard)

“Higher Power is a confessional for Scott, one that the now older and wiser singer is mature enough to tackle head on." (Kerrang)

"an emotional record relying more heavily on the lyrics and vocals than many rock records, which makes sense, because Stapp's lyrics & stories have always been at the forefront” (Blabbermouth)

Order Higher Power HERE