Welcome to the ultimate journey through the foot-tapping, alive feeling, and happy vibes of Creedence Clearwater Revival greatest hits! If you're a music enthusiast aged 35 to 65 with a soft spot for the music of the 1960s, you're in for a treat. In this educational and entertaining exploration, we'll dive deep into the world of CCR songs, their chart-topping hits, and the band's enduring legacy as well as songs from John Fogerty as a solo artist.
Below you'll find several demos, chord sheets, rhythm tips and some background info to help you play some of these classic from CCR.
There are also purchase links to pick up the full instructional tutorials if you need those.
Before we embark on our musical adventure, let's set the stage by introducing you to the band that created some of the most iconic songs of the 20th century. Formed in 1967, Creedence Clearwater Revival, often referred to as CCR, was a rock band hailing from California. The band's lineup included:
Our journey begins with an extensive list of Creedence Clearwater Revival's most beloved and successful tracks. These songs have stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with audiences across generations. Here are some of the gems that define CCR's musical legacy.
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Bad Moon Rising was the lead off single from the bands Green River album which was released in the spring of 1969, four months before the album came out. This track was also written by John Fogerty.
The song reached #2 in the US and #1 in the UK. The inspiration came to John Fogerty after watching a 1941 film called The Devil And Daniel Webster.
The song's lyrics reflect a sense of impending doom and have been interpreted as a commentary on the turbulent social and political climate of the late 1960s.
With its irresistible melody and catchy lyrics, this song is a timeless classic that has been covered by countless artists.
Before You Accuse Me was covered by CCR but never released as a single. It's an old Bo Diddley song from 1957.
The track appears on their debut album Creedence Clearwater Revival album.
Born On The Bayou was a single from the 1968 album Bayou Country.
Surprisingly this song never charted anywhere. The only other single in the 60s and 70s that failed to chart somewhere was their very first single called Poterville.
Down On The Corner was one of two singles from the 1969 album "Willy And The Poor Boys" and was written by John Fogerty.
"Down on the Corner" peaked at #3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969 and reached the top 10 in several countrues.
The song features a catchy rhythm and sing-along chorus, capturing the spirit of street musicians and the lively atmosphere of a fictional band called Willy and the Poor Boys performing on a street corner.
With its upbeat tempo and irresistible groove, this song is a true representation of CCR's signature sound.
Fortunate Son was the other single released from the Willy And The Poor Boys album.
This single managed to reach #3 in the US and #2 in Australia but never quite made it to the top. It was also written by John Fogerty. The track is a symbol of protest against the Vietnam War.
The song's distinctive guitar riff was created by John Fogerty to mimic the sound of a military march, adding to its rebellious and anti-establishment tone. As an anthem of protest against the Vietnam War, this track remains a powerful symbol of social and political unrest.
Green River was without a doubt the bands most successful single release. Bad Moon Rising, Lodi, Green River and Commotion all came from that record. This track was also written by John Fogerty.
Green River" reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1969 and was a top 10 in several other countries.
The title track of the album, "Green River" is a homage to the Green River, which runs through the band's home state of California. It evokes a sense of nostalgia for the countryside and the joys of simpler times.
Have You Ever Seen The Rain was the first of two singles released by CCR in 1971 from their Pendulum album. The song was written by John Fogerty
And this song was a huge hit across several countries and did make it to #1 in Canada. In the US, Have You Ever Seen the Rain reached #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1971.
This is probably one of the first CCR songs most people learn on guitar because it's a simple play and a great tune.
The lyrics are often interpreted as a reflection on the internal tensions and eventual breakup of Creedence Clearwater Revival, as well as the changing dynamics within the band during that time. A heartfelt ballad that captures the essence of melancholic beauty, this song is a favorite among fans.
Hearts Of Stone was a #37 in the US and a #35 when it was released as a single back in 1973 from John Fogerty's first solo album after the breakup of CCR.
The track can be found on The Blue Ridge Rangers album.
Mary Lou to my knowledge was never released as a single.
It was a track from their last album in 1972 called Mardi-Gras. This is an old Gene Pitney song that was first recorded by Johnny Duncan and then in 1961 by Ricky Nelson.
Hey Tonight charted in three countries when it was released as a single in 1971 from the Pendulum album.
It hit #1 in Belgium and Denmark and #9 in Australia and was written by John Fogerty. Hey Tonight reached #8 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1971.
The song's upbeat tempo and infectious energy make it a fan favorite. It is often performed live and is known for its catchy chorus and memorable guitar riff.
I Ain't Never was a track from the 1973 album "The Blue Ridge Rangers" which was released in 1973.
The song was never released as a single.
I Put A Spell On You was released on several albums. The first was in 1968 from the Creedence Clearwater Revival album and never cracked the top 40. The track was not written by John Fogerty but instead by
Screamin' Jay Hawkins, which was a hit for him.
A re-release in 1972 fared better with the song reaching #12 and #3. The final release was in 1990 but the song only charted in The Netherlands at #64
CCR's rendition of "I Put a Spell on You" showcases John Fogerty's powerful vocals and the band's ability to infuse their own style into a classic blues-rock song.
Jambalaya was a single release back in 1973 and peaked at #5 in Canada and climbed to #16 in the US.
the song can be found on the album "The Blue Ridge Rangers".
Long As I Can See The Light was mainly a B-side to Looking Out My Back Door but still managed to reach #20 in the UK and went to #1 in Norway.
The song hails from the 1970 album Cosmos Factory and featured John Fogerty playing electric piano and sax on the track which was written by John Fogerty
Although it was not released as a single, the song has become a beloved track in CCR's discography. Long As I Can See The Light is a soulful ballad featuring John Fogerty's emotional vocals. It is often regarded as one of his finest compositions and showcases his introspective songwriting.
Proud Mary was another huge single from CCR in 1969 from their Bayou Country album and was written by John Fogerty.
This one made it to #1 in Austria and was a top 10 across several countries including a #2 in the US and Canada. CCR never had a #1 hit in the United States.
The song's opening line, "Left a good job in the city," has often been misheard as "Left a good job in the bayou," leading some to mistakenly believe it was about life in the swamps.
This energetic and lively tune will have you dancing in no time, showcasing CCR's versatility.
Ramble Tamble is a popular CCR song but was never released as a single.
It appears on the Cosmos Factory album of 1970 and was written by John Fogerty.
While it wasn't released as a single, "Ramble Tamble" is an album track that showcases CCR's ability to explore extended instrumental sections and display their prowess as a rock band.
Ramble Tamble is an expansive and dynamic song, featuring a combination of rock and psychedelic elements. Its intricate structure and energetic guitar solos make it a standout track on the "Cosmo's Factory" album.
Someday Never Comes was released as a single and appears on the last album from 1972 called Mardi Gras.
The song peaked at #25 in the US and was the last single ever released by CCR before they officially disbanded in 1972.
Southern Streamline was a 1997 release from the album "Blue Moon Swamp".
The song charted at #67 on the US country charts.
The Old Man Down The Road hit #1 for John Fogerty in 1984, his first solo #1 song and his only #1 hit. CCR had no #1 hits in the US so this must have felt good.
The track can be found on the album, "Centerfield".
Traveling Band was written by John Fogerty and was included on the 1970 album "Cosmos Factory" and was written by John Fogerty.
The song peaked at #2 in the US and #8 in the UK.
Travelin Band" peaked at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970 and reached #8 in the UK.
The song's high-energy rock and roll sound, with its driving rhythm and catchy lyrics, captures the essence of the band's energetic live performances. It became one of CCR's biggest hits and a concert staple.
Up Around The Bend was the A-side with the song Run Through The Jungle. The song reached #1 in Australia and The Netherlands and was a top 10 in several other countries. The track was written by John Fogerty and
reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970.
It was released in 1970 from the Cosmos Factory album.
The song's lyrics and melody are known for their optimistic and uplifting qualities. It has been featured in various films, commercials, and television shows, cementing its status as one of CCR's most recognizable and enduring songs.
You're The Reason and an old Bobby Edwards number from 1961. John Fogerty put it on his album "The Blue Ridge Rangers" in 1973.
The song was never released as a single.
If you're looking for a one-stop musical journey through CCR's greatest hits, you're in luck. Several compilation albums and collections have been released over the years, making it easy for newcomers to dive into their music. Some noteworthy compilations include:
"Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits": This album is a treasure trove of CCR's best tracks, offering a perfect starting point for those new to the band.
"The Ultimate Creedence Clearwater Revival": Another excellent collection that features their biggest hits, ensuring you don't miss a single iconic song.
If you're just beginning your CCR musical journey, here are a few recommendations to get you started:
Start with "Bad Moon Rising" for its catchy melody and unforgettable chorus.
Dive into the rock 'n' roll energy of "Fortunate Son."
Explore the emotional depth of "Have You Ever Seen the Rain."
Get your groove on with "Proud Mary."
All full tutorial lessons are above along with a free demo and downloadable pdf chord sheets.
CCR's illustrious career is marked by numerous key highlights and significant songs. Let's explore a few standout moments:
Woodstock '69: CCR's performance at Woodstock is legendary. Their setlist included hits like "Green River" and "Suzie Q," leaving an indelible mark on the historic festival.
"Cosmo's Factory": This album, released in 1970, solidified CCR's place in music history, featuring hits like "Travelin' Band" and "Up Around the Bend."
CCR enjoyed a string of chart-topping tracks during their career, including classics like "Bad Moon Rising," "Green River," and "Proud Mary." Their music has been featured in countless films and TV shows, cementing their place in pop culture.
While CCR had numerous chart-toppers, one of their biggest hits was undoubtedly "Bad Moon Rising." As for the number of #1 hits achieved by CCR, they had nine top-ten hits in the United States but fell just short of securing a #1 spot. Nevertheless, their music remains iconic and beloved by millions.
John Fogerty, the band's frontman, achieved significant success as a solo artist. His most prominent hit as a solo artist is "Centerfield," a song that captures the spirit of America's favorite pastime, baseball.
Creedence Clearwater Revival's music wasn't just about catchy tunes; it had a profound cultural impact. Their songs became anthems of a generation, resonating with the sentiments of the times. CCR's music remains a symbol of the '60s and continues to evoke nostalgia and joy.
As we wrap up our journey through Creedence Clearwater Revival's greatest hits, one thing is clear: their music is timeless. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, CCR's foot-tapping, energetic, and alive feeling tunes are a testament to the power of rock 'n' roll. So, turn up the volume, let the music take you back in time, and keep the spirit of CCR alive for generations to come.
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