John Fogerty is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and guitarist, best known as the frontman of the rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). Born on May 28, 1945, in Berkeley, California, Fogerty’s music career skyrocketed in the late 1960s and early 1970s with CCR, where he wrote and performed hits like “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Fortunate Son.” Known for his distinctive, raspy voice and adept guitar work, Fogerty’s songs often feature themes of Americana and social commentary. After CCR disbanded in 1972, Fogerty embarked on a successful solo career, producing hits such as “Centerfield” and “The Old Man Down the Road.” His contributions to rock music have earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and a Grammy Award for his enduring influence and timeless music.
1. Fortunate Son
“Fortunate Son” is a powerful protest song by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty and released in 1969 on their album *Willy and the Poor Boys*. The song’s energetic, raw rock sound, featuring Fogerty’s gritty vocals and driving guitar riff, delivers a searing critique of the class divide during the Vietnam War era. “Fortunate Son” speaks out against the injustice of wealthy individuals avoiding the draft while poorer Americans were sent to fight. Its iconic lyrics, “It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no senator’s son,” resonate with themes of inequality and anti-establishment sentiment, making it a defining anthem of the 1960s protest movement. Over the years, it has remained a poignant and enduring symbol of social and political resistance.
2. Proud Mary
“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty and released in 1969 on their album *Bayou Country*. The song is renowned for its vibrant, swampy rock sound and iconic opening guitar riff. “Proud Mary” narrates the journey of a man who leaves his mundane life to find freedom and adventure working on a riverboat, celebrating the serene and rhythmic flow of the Mississippi River with the memorable chorus, “Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river.”
The song’s fusion of rock, soul, and blues elements, coupled with Fogerty’s dynamic vocals, quickly made it a hit, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its enduring popularity led to numerous covers by artists like Ike and Tina Turner, whose high-energy rendition added to the song’s legacy. “Proud Mary” remains a quintessential part of American music, symbolizing the spirit of freedom and the simple joys of life along the river.
3. Bad Moon Rising
“Bad Moon Rising” is a song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty. Released in 1969 as the lead single from their album “Green River,” the song features an upbeat, rockabilly sound that contrasts with its ominous lyrics about impending doom and natural disasters. “Bad Moon Rising” became one of CCR’s most popular tracks, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its catchy melody and distinctive rhythm have made it a classic, widely covered and used in various films, TV shows, and commercials.
4. Have You Ever Seen the Rain
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is a timeless rock ballad by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty and released in 1971 on their album *Pendulum*. The song’s gentle yet poignant melody, combined with Fogerty’s soulful vocals and reflective lyrics, captures a sense of melancholy and contemplation. While often interpreted as a commentary on the Vietnam War era or the tumultuous state of the world, Fogerty later revealed it was inspired by internal tensions and changes within the band.
The lyrics, “Have you ever seen the rain coming down on a sunny day?” poetically explore the paradoxes and inevitable challenges of life. With its memorable guitar work and evocative storytelling, the song became a major hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and gaining widespread acclaim. “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” continues to resonate with audiences, celebrated for its emotional depth and universal appeal, and remains one of CCR’s most enduring and beloved songs.
5. Centerfield
“Centerfield” is a song by American musician John Fogerty, released in 1985 as the title track of his album “Centerfield.” The song is a tribute to baseball and is widely regarded as one of the greatest sports anthems. Featuring catchy lyrics and a lively, roots rock melody, “Centerfield” captures the excitement and nostalgia of America’s pastime. The line “Put me in, Coach, I’m ready to play” has become iconic, symbolizing eagerness and readiness. Fogerty’s love for baseball shines through in this track, making it a beloved favorite among fans and frequently played at baseball games.
6. Who’ll Stop the Rain
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” is a song by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty and released in 1970 on their album *Cosmo’s Factory*. The song’s introspective lyrics and haunting melody reflect on disillusionment and the search for hope amid turbulent times. It’s often interpreted as a response to the social and political upheavals of the late 1960s, including the Vietnam War and civil rights movement.
The chorus, “Who’ll stop the rain?” encapsulates a yearning for change and a longing for clarity in uncertain times. Fogerty’s distinctive vocals and the band’s trademark blend of rock, country, and blues create a powerful and introspective atmosphere. “Who’ll Stop the Rain” resonated deeply with listeners, becoming one of CCR’s most enduring hits and a symbol of the era’s unrest and resilience.
7. Down on the Corner
“Down on the Corner” is a song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty. Released in 1969 as a double A-side single with “Fortunate Son” and featured on the album “Willy and the Poor Boys,” the song is known for its upbeat, rhythmic melody and catchy chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a fictional band, Willy and the Poor Boys, playing music on street corners to lift people’s spirits. With its lively blend of rock and roll, country, and blues, “Down on the Corner” became a hit, reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and remains one of CCR’s most enduring and popular songs.
8. The Old Man Down the Road
“The Old Man Down the Road” is a rock song written and performed by John Fogerty, released in 1985 as part of his solo album *Centerfield*. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riff, and Fogerty’s distinctive vocals characterize its energetic rock and roll style. Lyrically, the song is often interpreted as a reflection on aging, wisdom, and the passage of time, with references to a mysterious old man who possesses a captivating, almost mystical presence.
Fogerty’s return to the music scene after a lengthy hiatus was marked by the success of “The Old Man Down the Road,” which reached No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its blend of nostalgia, rock prowess, and storytelling prowess reaffirmed Fogerty’s status as a prolific songwriter and performer, showcasing his enduring influence in the rock genre.
9. Lookin’ Out My Back Door
“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is a song by American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty. Released in 1970 as a single from their album “Cosmo’s Factory,” the song features a cheerful, country-influenced melody with whimsical lyrics. The song describes a fantastical scene unfolding in the narrator’s backyard, with dancing animals and other colorful imagery, evoking a sense of childlike wonder and escapism. “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” became a commercial success, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics have made it a beloved classic in CCR’s catalog.
10. Rockin’ All Over the World
“Rockin’ All Over the World” is a rock song originally written and recorded by John Fogerty, released in 1975 as part of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s album *Cosmo’s Factory*. The song has a lively and infectious rhythm, driven by its energetic guitar riffs and Fogerty’s dynamic vocals. It celebrates the universal joy and spirit of rock and roll music, with lyrics that evoke a sense of excitement and unity among music lovers around the globe.
In 1977, the song gained further popularity when British rock band Status Quo covered it and released it as a single. Status Quo’s version became a major hit, reaching high positions on various international charts and solidifying “Rockin’ All Over the World” as an enduring rock anthem. Both versions showcase the song’s ability to inspire listeners with its exuberant energy and timeless appeal.