John Fogerty is an American singer-songwriter and musician best known as the lead vocalist, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter of the rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). Born on May 28, 1945, in Berkeley, California, Fogerty played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of rock music in the late 1960s and early 1970s.
With Creedence Clearwater Revival, Fogerty penned and sang numerous hit songs that became classics of the era, including “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Down on the Corner.” His distinctive voice, evocative songwriting, and the band’s swamp rock sound earned them widespread acclaim and commercial success.
After Creedence Clearwater Revival disbanded in 1972, Fogerty embarked on a successful solo career. He continued to write and record music, releasing hit songs like “Centerfield,” “The Old Man Down the Road,” and “Rockin’ All Over the World.” Fogerty’s solo work often drew inspiration from his roots in American rock, blues, and country music, and he remained a respected figure in the music industry.
Fogerty’s contributions to rock music have earned him numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Creedence Clearwater Revival. He is also recognized for his influence on subsequent generations of musicians and his enduring legacy as one of the greatest songwriters and performers in rock history.
1. Fortunate Son
“Fortunate Son” is a famous protest song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), written by John Fogerty. Released in 1969 as part of their album “Willy and the Poor Boys,” the song became one of CCR’s most iconic tracks and an anthem of the anti-Vietnam War movement.
“Fortunate Son” is characterized by its driving rhythm, gritty guitar riffs, and defiant lyrics. The song’s lyrics condemn the hypocrisy and privilege of the wealthy elite who avoided military service and draft by virtue of their social status, while working-class Americans were sent to fight and die in the Vietnam War. The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no senator’s son,” became a rallying cry for protesters and activists opposing the war.
The song’s powerful message and infectious energy resonated with listeners, and “Fortunate Son” became a major hit, reaching the top 40 on the charts in the United States. Its rebellious spirit and social commentary cemented its status as one of the greatest protest songs of the 1960s and a timeless anthem of resistance against injustice.
“Fortunate Son” has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and relevance reflect its status as a classic of American rock music and a powerful symbol of dissent and protest.
2. Proud Mary
“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song originally written by John Fogerty and performed by his band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). It was released in 1969 as a single from their album “Bayou Country.” The song has since become one of CCR’s most recognizable and enduring hits.
“Proud Mary” is characterized by its distinctive guitar riff, driving rhythm, and catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a riverboat captain named Mary, who navigates the Mississippi River. The narrator reflects on his experiences traveling on the river, singing about the simple joys of life and the freedom of the open water.
The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river,” has become iconic and is often sung along to by audiences. The energetic and infectious rhythm of “Proud Mary” made it a major hit for CCR, reaching the top five on the charts in the United States.
“Proud Mary” has been covered by numerous artists across various genres and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials. Its enduring popularity and timeless appeal reflect its status as a classic of American rock music and a beloved song that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
3. Bad Moon Rising
“Bad Moon Rising” is a song written and recorded by John Fogerty, the lead singer and guitarist of Creedence Clearwater Revival. It was released in 1969 as a single from the band’s album “Green River.”
“Bad Moon Rising” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and memorable guitar riff. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of foreboding and impending doom, with the narrator warning of troubling times ahead. The chorus features the iconic refrain, “Don’t go around tonight, well, it’s bound to take your life, there’s a bad moon on the rise,” evoking a feeling of unease and uncertainty.
The song became one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most successful singles, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its infectious energy and memorable chorus resonated with audiences, and “Bad Moon Rising” has since become a classic rock staple, often featured in films, television shows, and commercials.
John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals and guitar work, combined with the song’s timeless melody and evocative lyrics, have solidified “Bad Moon Rising” as one of the band’s most enduring and beloved songs.
4. Have You Ever Seen the Rain
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is a song by Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by John Fogerty. It was released in 1971 as a single from their album “Pendulum.”
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” is characterized by its mellow acoustic guitar, driving rhythm, and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics reflect on themes of disillusionment, change, and renewal, with the narrator pondering whether the rain falling from the sky symbolizes tears or a cleansing force. Despite its melancholic tone, the song also carries a sense of hope and resilience.
The song became one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most enduring and beloved tracks. It reached the top ten on the charts in several countries and has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres.
“Have You Ever Seen the Rain” remains a classic rock staple and a fan favorite, celebrated for its timeless melody, evocative lyrics, and emotional depth. It continues to resonate with audiences around the world as a poignant reflection on the human experience.
5. Centerfield
“Centerfield” is a song by American musician John Fogerty, released in 1985 as the title track of his third solo studio album. The song is a tribute to baseball and has become one of Fogerty’s most well-known and enduring hits.
“Centerfield” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and nostalgic lyrics. The song celebrates the joy and excitement of playing baseball, capturing the spirit of the sport and the sense of camaraderie among players and fans. Fogerty’s energetic vocals and driving guitar riffs contribute to the song’s infectious energy and appeal.
The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “Put me in, Coach, I’m ready to play, today,” has become iconic and is often associated with the anticipation and excitement of a baseball game. “Centerfield” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in the United States and earning widespread acclaim from critics.
In addition to its success as a single, “Centerfield” has become a staple of sports events and is often played at baseball games as an anthem for the sport. Its timeless appeal and universal themes have made it a favorite among fans of both baseball and classic rock music, ensuring its enduring popularity for generations to come.
6. Who’ll Stop the Rain
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” is another song by Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by John Fogerty. It was released in 1970 as a single from their album “Cosmo’s Factory.”
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” is characterized by its melodic guitar riff, driving rhythm, and introspective lyrics. The song’s lyrics reflect on themes of disillusionment, uncertainty, and the search for meaning in turbulent times. The narrator expresses a sense of frustration and confusion, questioning whether anyone will be able to put an end to the metaphorical rain that symbolizes life’s challenges and struggles.
The song’s universal themes and emotional resonance resonated with audiences, and “Who’ll Stop the Rain” became one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most enduring and beloved tracks. It reached the top ten on the charts in several countries and has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres.
“Who’ll Stop the Rain” remains a classic rock staple and a fan favorite, celebrated for its timeless melody, thought-provoking lyrics, and evocative atmosphere. It continues to resonate with listeners as a powerful reflection on the human experience and the quest for hope and redemption.
7. Down on the Corner
“Down on the Corner” is a classic rock song by the American band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), released in 1969 as part of their album “Willy and the Poor Boys.” Written by John Fogerty, the song is known for its catchy melody, lively rhythm, and memorable lyrics.
“Down on the Corner” is characterized by its upbeat tempo and infectious handclaps, creating a lively and energetic atmosphere. The song tells the story of a fictional band called Willy and the Poor Boys, who play music on the street corner for passersby. The lyrics describe the band members and their instruments, such as “Willy” on washboard and “Poor Boy” on the kazoo.
The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “Down on the corner, out in the street, Willy and the Poor Boys are playin’,” has become iconic and is often sung along to by audiences. “Down on the Corner” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in the United States and earning widespread acclaim from critics.
The song’s catchy melody and playful lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of CCR and classic rock music. Its enduring popularity has ensured its place as one of the band’s most beloved and enduring hits, remaining a staple of rock radio and a timeless classic for generations to come.
8. The Old Man Down the Road
“The Old Man Down the Road” is a song written and performed by John Fogerty, released in 1984. It was included on his album “Centerfield.”
The song features Fogerty’s signature swamp rock style, characterized by its catchy guitar riff, energetic rhythm, and gritty vocals. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of an enigmatic old man who lives down the road and seems to possess mystical powers. Despite the suspicions and rumors surrounding him, the narrator admires the old man’s resilience and independence.
“The Old Man Down the Road” became a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. It received critical acclaim for its infectious melody and Fogerty’s electrifying performance. The song’s music video, featuring surreal imagery and scenes of Fogerty playing guitar, also contributed to its popularity.
Overall, “The Old Man Down the Road” remains one of John Fogerty’s most recognizable and enduring solo hits, showcasing his talents as a songwriter and musician.
9. Lookin’ Out My Back Door
“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is a classic rock song by the American band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), released in 1970 as part of their album “Cosmo’s Factory.” The song was written by CCR’s lead vocalist and primary songwriter, John Fogerty.
“Lookin’ Out My Back Door” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and whimsical lyrics. The song describes a surreal and fantastical scene observed by the narrator as he looks out his back door. The lyrics paint a picture of colorful images and whimsical characters, including a parade with elephants, dancing bears, and a band playing in the trees.
The song’s chorus, with its refrain of “Doo, doo, doo, lookin’ out my back door,” has become iconic and is often cited as one of the most memorable moments in CCR’s discography. “Lookin’ Out My Back Door” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in the United States and earning widespread acclaim from critics.
The song’s whimsical lyrics and catchy melody have made it a favorite among fans of CCR and classic rock music. Its enduring popularity has ensured its place as one of the band’s most beloved and enduring hits, remaining a staple of rock radio and a timeless classic for generations to come.
10. Rockin’ All Over the World
“Rockin’ All Over the World” is a song originally written and recorded by the British rock band Status Quo. It was released as a single in 1977 and later included on their album of the same name.
The song is characterized by its driving rhythm, catchy guitar riffs, and upbeat tempo. Its lyrics celebrate the joy of rock and roll music and the universal appeal of live concerts, with the narrator expressing excitement about traveling around the world to perform and share their music with fans.
“Rockin’ All Over the World” became one of Status Quo’s most popular and enduring songs, reaching the top of the charts in several countries. Its infectious energy and anthemic chorus made it a favorite among fans and a staple of the band’s live performances.
The song has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including John Fogerty, who released a version of the song in 1975. Fogerty’s cover of “Rockin’ All Over the World” also became a hit, further solidifying the song’s status as a classic rock anthem.
Edward Tomlin 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.
