Creedence Clearwater Revival, also known as CCR, was an American rock band that rose to prominence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. The band’s music was characterized by its distinctive Southern rock and swamp rock sound, combined with John Fogerty’s powerful vocals and poignant songwriting.
Founded in 1967 by Fogerty and his brother Tom, along with Stu Cook and Doug Clifford, CCR released its first album, “Creedence Clearwater Revival,” the following year. The album featured the hit singles “Susie Q” and “I Put a Spell on You,” and set the stage for the band’s meteoric rise to fame.
Over the course of their brief but prolific career, CCR released seven studio albums, each of which contained several hit songs that have become classic rock staples. Some of their most well-known tracks include “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Fortunate Son.”
Despite their success, CCR was plagued by internal tensions and conflicts, particularly between John Fogerty and the other members of the band. The group disbanded in 1972, but their music has continued to resonate with audiences for decades.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the history of Creedence Clearwater Revival best songs, exploring the band’s influences, musical style, and cultural impact. We will also examine some of their most enduring songs and the ways in which they have influenced subsequent generations of rock musicians.
1. Suzie Q.
“Suzie Q” is a classic rock and roll song that was originally recorded by Dale Hawkins in 1957. The song is a lively and energetic piece of music, driven by a catchy guitar riff and Hawkins’ passionate vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a woman named Suzie Q who has caught the singer’s eye, and he implores her to give him a chance to prove his love for her. The song has become a staple of the rock and roll canon, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Creedence Clearwater Revival, who recorded a famous version in 1968. With its memorable guitar hook and upbeat rhythm, “Suzie Q” remains a timeless classic that continues to inspire and delight rock music fans around the world.
2. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” is a powerful and haunting blues song that was originally recorded by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956. The song features Hawkins’ distinctive, gravelly voice and a driving rhythm section, augmented by a spooky organ and horn section that adds to the overall eerie feel of the track. The lyrics describe the singer’s attempts to win back a lost love, using magic and voodoo to cast a spell on them. The song has been covered by a wide range of artists over the years, including Nina Simone, Creedence Clearwater Revival, and Annie Lennox, each bringing their own unique interpretation to the song. With its potent combination of bluesy vocals, eerie instrumentation, and mystic lyrics, “I Put a Spell on You” remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate listeners with its spellbinding power.
3. Proud Mary
“Proud Mary” is an iconic rock and roll song that was originally recorded by Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1969. The song features a driving rhythm section, a catchy guitar riff, and the distinctive vocals of frontman John Fogerty. The lyrics tell the story of a person who works hard on the Mississippi River aboard the titular riverboat, and their dreams of leaving behind their humble beginnings and making a better life for themselves. The song has become a classic of the rock and roll canon, known for its infectious energy and catchy chorus. It has been covered by a wide range of artists over the years, including Tina Turner, whose version became a huge hit in 1971. With its rollicking beat and inspiring lyrics, “Proud Mary” remains a beloved anthem of perseverance and hope that continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world.
4. Bad Moon Rising
“Bad Moon Rising” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a catchy guitar riff, a driving rhythm section, and the distinctive vocals of frontman John Fogerty. The lyrics describe an impending sense of doom and danger, with the titular “bad moon” rising and predicting that trouble is on the way. Despite its dark subject matter, the song has a lively and upbeat feel that is typical of much of Creedence’s music. “Bad Moon Rising” has become one of the band’s most popular songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its catchy melody and memorable lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
5. Lodi
“Lodi” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a slow, bluesy melody, with John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals telling the story of a musician who is stuck in the small town of Lodi, California, and struggling to make it in the music industry. The lyrics paint a picture of a disheartened and frustrated artist who feels trapped in his current situation. Despite its melancholic tone, the song has a catchy melody and a memorable chorus that has made it a fan favorite over the years. “Lodi” is one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most enduring hits and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. Its bittersweet lyrics and relatable themes continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
6. Green River
“Green River” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a catchy guitar riff, a driving rhythm section, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a peaceful and idyllic setting on the Green River, where the singer enjoys fishing, swimming, and spending time with friends. Despite its laid-back and carefree vibe, the song also hints at darker themes, with references to poverty and inequality. “Green River” has become one of Creedence’s most beloved songs, known for its catchy melody and memorable chorus. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Elvis Presley and Willie Nelson. With its evocative lyrics and infectious energy, “Green River” remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
7. Commotion
“Commotion” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a driving rhythm section, a catchy guitar riff, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a scene of chaos and confusion, with people running wild and causing trouble. The song’s title itself suggests a sense of disorder and mayhem. Despite its frenetic energy, the song also has a catchy melody and a memorable chorus. “Commotion” is one of Creedence’s most enduring hits and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its lively beat and infectious lyrics continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
8. Down on the Corner
“Down on the Corner” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a catchy guitar riff, a driving rhythm section, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a street band playing music and entertaining passersby, with references to popular instruments like the washboard and the kazoo. The song has a lively and upbeat feel, with a catchy melody that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Down on the Corner” has become one of Creedence’s most popular songs and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. Its infectious energy and relatable themes continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
9. Fortunate Son
“Fortunate Son” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1969. The song features a driving rhythm section, a catchy guitar riff, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe the privileged status of those born into wealth and power, and the struggles faced by those who come from humble backgrounds. The song is a scathing critique of the Vietnam War and the military draft, with lyrics that condemn the idea that the children of the wealthy could avoid service while others were forced to fight and die. “Fortunate Son” has become one of Creedence’s most iconic and politically charged songs, and its powerful message continues to resonate with listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
10. Travelin’ Band
“Travelin’ Band” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a driving rhythm section, a catchy guitar riff, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a touring rock and roll band, singing about their travels and the excitement of performing live. The song has a lively and upbeat feel, with a catchy melody and a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Travelin’ Band” has become one of Creedence’s most popular songs and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. Its infectious energy and relatable themes continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
11. Who’ll Stop the Rain
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a haunting melody, with John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals lamenting the unpredictability and turmoil of life. The lyrics describe a feeling of helplessness in the face of forces beyond one’s control, and the search for hope and stability in uncertain times. Despite its melancholic tone, the song also has a catchy melody and a memorable chorus that has made it a fan favorite over the years. “Who’ll Stop the Rain” has been covered by numerous artists in various genres, and its poignant lyrics and timeless message continue to resonate with listeners today. It remains one of Creedence’s most enduring hits and a classic of the rock and roll genre.
12. Up Around the Bend
“Up Around the Bend” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a driving rhythm section, a catchy guitar riff, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a sense of adventure and excitement, with references to hitting the road and exploring new horizons. The song has a lively and upbeat feel, with a catchy melody and a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Up Around the Bend” has become one of Creedence’s most popular songs and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. Its infectious energy and relatable themes continue to resonate with listeners, making it a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
13. Run Through the Jungle
“Run Through the Jungle” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a driving rhythm section, a haunting guitar riff, and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe the chaos and violence of the Vietnam War, with references to soldiers, helicopters, and gunfire. The song is a scathing critique of the conflict, with lyrics that condemn the senseless loss of life and the destructive impact of war on society. “Run Through the Jungle” has become one of Creedence’s most iconic and politically charged songs, and its powerful message continues to resonate with listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
14. Lookin’ Out My Back Door
“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a playful melody, with John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals describing a whimsical scene of strange and surreal objects passing by outside his back door. The lyrics are full of playful imagery, with references to giant toads, circus clowns, and a dragon-tailed meteor in the sky. The song has a lighthearted feel, with a catchy melody and a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” has become one of Creedence’s most beloved and enduring songs, and its playful spirit continues to bring joy to listeners of all ages.
15. Long As i Can See the Light
“Long As I Can See the Light” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1970. The song features a soulful melody, with John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals conveying a sense of longing and introspection. The lyrics describe a search for redemption and inner peace, with references to the darkness of the night and the hope provided by a distant light. The song has a haunting feel, with a beautiful piano accompaniment and a moving saxophone solo. “Long As I Can See the Light” has become one of Creedence’s most emotionally resonant songs, and its powerful message continues to inspire listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
16. I Heard It Through the Grapevine
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a classic soul song that was originally recorded by Smokey Robinson & The Miracles in 1966, but it was made famous by Marvin Gaye in 1968. The song features a driving rhythm section, with a funky bassline and horn section that support Gaye’s distinctive vocals. The lyrics describe a sense of betrayal and heartbreak, with Gaye singing about hearing rumors of his lover’s infidelity through the grapevine. The song has a powerful and emotional feel, with a memorable chorus that has become a signature of Gaye’s music. “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” has become one of the most iconic and influential soul songs of all time, and has been covered by numerous artists in various genres. Its timeless message and powerful performance continue to inspire and resonate with listeners today.
17. Have You Ever Seen the Rain
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1971. The song features a gentle acoustic guitar intro and a memorable piano riff, with John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals conveying a sense of wistful nostalgia. The lyrics describe the passage of time and the cycle of joy and sadness, with references to rain as a metaphor for life’s struggles and challenges. The song has a beautiful and emotional feel, with a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing along. “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” has become one of Creedence’s most beloved and enduring songs, and its timeless message continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
18. Hey Tonight
“Hey Tonight” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1971. The song features a driving rhythm section, with a catchy guitar riff and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals conveying a sense of joy and optimism. The lyrics describe the anticipation of a night filled with music and dancing, with references to the freedom and excitement of youth. The song has a fun and upbeat feel, with a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Hey Tonight” has become one of Creedence’s most popular and enduring songs, and its infectious energy continues to inspire listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
19. Sweet Hitch-Hiker
“Sweet Hitch-Hiker” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1971. The song features a driving rhythm section, with a catchy guitar riff and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals conveying a sense of excitement and adventure. The lyrics describe a journey on the open road, with references to the freedom and possibility of travel. The song has a fun and upbeat feel, with a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing and dance along. “Sweet Hitch-Hiker” has become one of Creedence’s most beloved and enduring songs, and its infectious energy continues to inspire listeners today. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a timeless classic of the rock and roll genre.
20. Someday Never Comes
“Someday Never Comes” is a classic rock ballad by Creedence Clearwater Revival that was released in 1972. The song features a haunting piano intro and John Fogerty’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of regret and longing. The lyrics describe a father’s advice to his son, with references to the importance of living in the moment and cherishing life’s precious moments. The song has a poignant and emotional feel, with a memorable chorus that captures the essence of the human experience. “Someday Never Comes” has become one of Creedence’s most introspective and personal songs, and its timeless message continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, and remains a classic of the rock and roll genre.
April Johnson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
