ROOKIES Had an INCREDIBLE 14 CLASSIC Hits in Only 3 Years…Then VANISHED Forever! | Professor of Rock

Sibling rivalry, band-member infighting, and an ongoing wrestle for creative control all led to the break up of today’s featured band. Creedence Clearwater Revival... Theirs was a bottled lightning career, but they were no one hit-wonder. In fact, they kicked out 9 Top 10 hits in the space of two years… John Fogerty and his band never landed a #1, but they did have a record 5 #2 hits. Today’s song was certainly worthy of a #1. It is a true standard of the rock canon. It was also prophetic… predicting the collapse of this illustrious band. Have You Ever Seen the Rain predicted what was about to happen. But only Fogerty knew what it meant. The rest of the guys had no idea. Find out how one of the biggest bands in the world went from clear blue skies to pouring rain almost overnight and then they were gone forever… Next on Professor of Rock.
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#classicrock #70smusic #vinylstory #creedenceclearwaterrevival
Hey music junkies, Professor of Rock, always here to celebrate the greatest artists and the greatest songs of all time. If you remember the b sides to all of your favorite singles even today You’ll dig this channel of deep musical nostalgia. Make sure to, subscribe below right now.I know you’ll dig this channel We also have a Patreon you'll want to check out. There you’ll find an additional catalog of exclusive content and you can even become an honorary producer to help us curate this music history.
So it’s time for another edition of our series The New Standards. This show takes an in-depth look into songs that transcend genre, decade, and fads - songs that are monumental touchstones in our culture and society. Just to give you a taste of what this show is all about, on previous episodes we have covered Cat’s in the Cradle by Harry Chapin, Sundown by Gordon Lightfoot, and Hey Jude by The Beatles. All phenomenal songs.
Today we are giving you the story behind what is effectively the swan-song for one of the biggest bands from the late 60s and early 70s. It’s none other than Creedence Clearwater Revival and their unforgettable hit Have You Ever Seen the Rain? You know, during CCR’s 1968 and 1972 run, they notched fourteen Top 40 singles in the US and released 7 albums… all of which would ultimately certify gold or platinum. In 1969 alone, CCR dropped three legendary records-Bayou Country, Green River, and Willy and the Poor Boys. A record pace that no one has really equaled since.
For those of you who may not be familiar, CCR was comprised of John Fogerty on lead guitar and lead vocals, his brother Tom Fogerty on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, Stu Cook on bass, and Doug Clifford on drums. But as we’ll see later in today’s episode, it wouldn’t stay that way.
However, let’s get things rolling by going back to April 1970. Paul McCartney just announced he was leaving the Beatles, which would in turn affect CCR. The Beatles’ shadow had loomed large over their shoulders throughout their career. As it had over everyone. But now with the breakup of the world’s biggest band, who would fill the void? For a hot minute, CCR thought it could be them. and so did everyone else. They'd already kicked out three Top 10 albums, and were racking up the Top 10 hits. With the landmark success of Cosmo’s Factory, released just months later, could you blame him?

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: What is your pick for the most DEVASTATING Band Break Up EVER?

[@robster7316]

The Beatles.

[@ChrisTian-rm7zm]

The various break ups of Van Halen

[@SPak-rt2gb]

For me: Michael Schenker leaving UFO and the Rainbow breakup with Ronnie James Dio

[@surlechapeau]

Beatles, CCR

[@Kenboslice3]

The Love Burger. When they broke up in "She's All That" in the late 90's I was in pieces. I was so happy when they reunited later in the movie!

[@garycreasy]

CCR is a big part of the soundtrack of my childhood. My son was born in 2003. When he was young I played CCR alot. He really liked this song and always asked me to play it over and over. Today he plays guitar and is going to college. He is persuing a career as a therapist and wants to incorporate music as his means of therapy. I am proud of his vision. One day a couple of years back this song came on the radio while we were in my truck. He told me he thinks of me every time he hears it and that it's 'our' song. It's what started his love of music and I'll proudly wear that feather in my hat.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So glad to hear he loves music too!

[@dancollins4755]

A great story what you share with your kids goes on forever.

[@jennifermosley1243]

My son did that to me a couple years ago. Except he reached over and turned up Crazy Train by Ozzy. I've never felt more proud bc he said it was our song and he also thought of me when he heard it

[@ralphdeshon9710]

Awesome, sounds like you did a great job raising your child. 😊

[@ponzo1967]

All of CCR's hits stand the test of time. Still sounds great today halfway through 2023 One of the American Bands

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

👍

[@tjseagrove]

And will 50 years from now…todays pop music will not even be remembered.

[@jimnagel5611]

SAW THEM LIVE 3 TIMES & THEY WERE JUST AS GOOD LIV AS THEY WERE ON VINYL - FOGERTY WAS ACTUALLY A VERY VERY GOOD GUITARIST

[@davemoyer505]

John Fogarty was and is a rock n roll monster!! What an influence. Despite all the troubles, thank you John. You ROCK👍🎸🥁🇺🇸❤️

[@markallen2984]

Fogarty is a giant. His brother Tom became jealous of him, and his other bandmates did not appreciate they were working with a genuine genius.

[@ueno1]

If I were lucky enough to be in that band, I would Ride or Die with John Fogerty.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

We’ve all been through situations just like that.

[@owenbloomfield1177]

He sounds like a control freak who had no clue what was going on with his band mates. He needed to leave and hire his own band.

[@kcstott]

John was a narcissist and a control freak and it’s painfully obvious when you see interviews and how he phrases situations and describes everything it’s it’s all about him it’s him him him the entire time and that’s trait number one of being a narcissist

[@kcstott]

Musical genius or not John was a narcissist and a control freak and couldn’t see past his own ego. Tom being blood had to deal with this his entire life and was finally fed up with it left the band. I remember seeing an interview in the 80s where a lot of truth, a lot of candid truth was spoken from John and you could really see just how narcissistic and egocentric he was. That said the best memories that I have with my father are all in a greatest hits CCR album. My dad would drag in his record player and we’d plug it in in my bedroom, and would sit there by him on a borrowed kitchen chair and me on my bed and listening to the album to the live album that double double record, live album, Europe, and that was the only time that I could really talk to my father and get out a good honest conversation out of him he was relaxed he he was confident and open. those were those were the best times of my life were having conversations with my dad and he died about 20 years later in 2006 of brain cancer and I miss him dearly but I can play that record and it brings back great memories.

[@tedbecker4051]

How would we talk about Credence Clearwater Revival if they had stayed together? They were one of the most iconic bands of the late 60s, early 70s with a totally unique sound. When one of their songs would come on the radio, you knew instantly who it was. One of my favorite bands.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

They are so unique.

[@mavenofmacau6391]

fogarty blew his load in the band. CCR would have been his solo career in the 70s, whatever that was. one album of originals? the man had nothing left.

[@vincentrimmer5844]

​@@mavenofmacau6391 ..and what a heavy, sticky load it was!! What the hell am I talking about?! Scratch that! 😬

[@nitaishcomer9431]

I wrote John Fogerty a letter in the 1980's, I used the address for Warner Bros. on the back of his album CENTERFIELD. 5 years later john Fogerty sent me a letter and a autographed picture. I WAS SO DAMN EXCITED....A TRUE CLASS ACT!!!

[@mysterbear]

CCR’s impact was so intense and pervasive, it took us a minute to realize they were only around for two years. Fortunate Son was always my favorite CCR song.

[@despoticmusic]

Family Guy kinda ruined it for me 😂😂😂

[@vaporman442]

I don’t think they were actually only around for two years. They released 7 albums between 1968 and 1972. They had at least minor hits on each of those albums. Even if someone argued they were broken up before the last album was released, they were together for almost a decade before their first album (under the names The Blue Velvets and The Golliwogs.

[@DC8091]

Grohl, Springsteen, & Brown playin that on The DC Mall is among the greatest performances ever!!!

[@carolmaccarolynraea..3153]

68 to 72 was a bit more than two years...

[@WhiteCamry]

"CCR’s impact was so intense and pervasive, it took us a minute to realize they were only around for two years." That was Cream.

[@muchachonextdoor5608]

CCR is truly a generational band. My 13 year old gleefully "introduced" CCR to me 😂 "Dad, have you heard this band?" Love connecting with my kids listening to fantastic bands like CCR. So many great songs.

[@lindadianakohler7880]

The same with me and my grandkids now😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I hope you knew about CCR before that…

[@muchachonextdoor5608]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 yeah, I was familiar. It was just fun seeing how excited he was

[@lindadianakohler7880]

I was learning to play their songs back in the late 60's early 70's so yes I knew them. I also listened to the Turtles.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@muchachonextdoor5608 Introduce him to some more bands just like CCR.

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Just goes to show the talent in CCR they could go in the studio and make an all time classic in one session with just a couple of takes on the spot. It was a sad day they broke up they could make folk music fantastic to fit the times. This song makes me feel good about being blue. Great episode professor. More CCR!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s incredible how they managed this feat in just 5 years.

[@lindamcfarland9656]

Now, _this_ band was a big part of my childhood in the 70's. CCR was one of my dad's favorite bands and we had at least three of their albums. Back then -and in our financial bracket - home video games and VCRs and cable were basically unheard of, so we always had to make our own fun. One of the things we did was put on records and pretend to play and be members of the band. This band was one of our top picks and we'd fight over who would get to be who in the band. We all wanted to be John Fogarty since he was lead singer, but my brothers always beat me on that one because I was a girl and JF was a boy. It didn't matter that the rest of the band was _also_ guys, I just couldn't get the plum part, as far as we were concerned😆

[@ProfessorofRock]

Thanks for sharing.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I would do similar, with air guitars and drums.

[@lindamcfarland9656]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 we used tennis rackets😂

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

@@lindamcfarland9656 I can imagine that.

[@rebeccamccann8710]

What a great family memory! I come from a big family, I have 5 siblings. Music was such a huge part of our lives! Thanks for sharing your memory.

[@RC32Smiths01]

Definitely one of the most complex bands in the shortest amount of time. Iconic band absolutely for that small time they were around.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Such a narrow window filled to the brim with timeless songs.

[@natshellok]

It's crazy to realize that they never got a #1 in the U.S! CCR was a HUGE part of the soundtrack of my childhood.

[@CowGirlKat8691]

Loved CCR as a child & still do! Their music can truly stand up to the "music" of today! "Looking Out My Back Door" is still one of my favorite songs

[@jainey]

That's my favourite too!

[@sariahut1]

CCR will always bring a tear to my eyes, it always reminds me of my dad. He passed away three years ago and music makes me feel so close to him.

[@jennifermosley1243]

I can't think of one CCR song I don't like. They were amazing. Down On The Corner is up there for sure.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Lookin’ Out My Back Door

[@jennifermosley1243]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Green River and Lodi

[@joeblow9374]

if I had a nickel for every time I played it on the jukebox...

[@johnw6042]

CCR has been one of my favorites since I first heard them. Every song is amazing…John Fogerty has one of the best and most unique voices in rock history. He is still rocking after all these years, and is at the top of my concert bucket list. The videos he put out with his kids during the pandemic were excellent as well.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He was able to fight out that ridiculous lawsuit as well.

[@markdavis9148]

After Suzie Q, their first semi-hit, a cover song that did well for them, it became obvious to John that they needed to write their own songs, and something quickly, or they would be just another one hit wonder. They would meet for practice sessions, and JC would ask if anyone had a song, and no one ever did. JC realized that if he didn't do it, then they would be finished. He magically came up with Proud Mary, and they were on their way. Soon, they complained so vociferously about JC writing all the songs that he gave all of them equal shares in the writing credits until 1971, I think it was. John Fogerty wrote all the songs, taught them to the band members, and arranged and produced the songs too. The Beatles had all four contributing to writing and especially contributing musically, CCR only John. The Beatles also had George Martin, the world's best producer, and lots of other help. John Fogerty had only himself. His output in 1969 dwarfs anything anyone has ever done, before or after. 3 huge albums in one year? All written, sung, arranged and produced by one guy? John Fogerty is a flat out genius. They had regular practice sessions to learn the new songs, so when they went into the recording studio they knew them perfectly and could record them quickly. JC was 99% of that band, those other guys should have realized how lucky they were, and just shut their mouths and rode out their lucky streak. Can any of you name a Stu Cook song? (hahaha), or one by Doug Clifford or Tom Fogerty? I didn't think so. They all had recording contracts after Creedence.

[@jeromethiel4323]

Ego has killed more great bands than anything else. Even if you are the sole talent in a group, you are still not the only one in the band. Everyone needs to be appreciated for what they do.

[@margaretkiser6305]

My stepdad was born in 1936, and he loved the music of the 60's. Dad owned a CCR 8-track tape, and he gladly let me listen to it. I enjoyed it, even though I was familiar with most of the songs from listening to the radio. (Incidentally, later Mom recorded all of Elvis on the same 8-track tape deck, when our local station played all his songs in a special marathon after he passed. She sat there crying all day, changing tapes when they'd reach capacity. It didn't matter that 8-track became obsolete. It served its purpose during its time... much like CCR.)

[@robster7316]

Holding a band together can be a challenge at the best of times, especially when one member has the most talent, and the trappings of fame and success make it that much tougher. Not many bands survive, and ones that do are special indeed, the most notable being the Rolling Stones. CCR’s music has certainly stood the test of time, an accomplishment they should be proud of. Thanks, Adam!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Touring a lot can also wreak havoc on band members.

[@rylian21]

It's doubly hard when your lead singer thinks the rest of the band are riding his coattails.

[@paulwojnilowicz5265]

JOURNEY!

[@tunanorth]

I am blessed to have attended one of their last concerts, in the fall of 1971 at The Forum in Los Angeles. Needless to say, they were great.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Cool to know!

[@scottburton9701]

CCR is one of my all-time favorite bands-Was fortunate to have seen John Fogarty in concert five years ago-He was phenomenal!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I’m envying you.

[@philgbrittain]

One of the first songs I played on the guitar was "Down On The Corner". The riff is so accessible for a beginning guitarist.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I learned that song as a young toddler.

[@Al69BfR]

I played „Have you ever seen the rain“ with my band every gig, 50 times a year for almost 20 years in a row. And it took me almost another 20 years to learn about the story behind the song today. Thank you so much.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Poll: IF you had the POWER to REFORM any band in history what REUNION would you MOST like to SEE?

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

Yes - with Jon Anderson

[@RBS_]

*MICK FLEETWOOD* : ".....Linsdey, would you like to jump on F-Mac train, just ONE last time!??? ...Stevie says it's OK..... " ....ha-HAAA!!

[@DC8091]

Skynyrd ‘76 line up Rush

[@Code.Name.V]

Joy Division

[@martineldritch]

The Beatles naturally, but that would require levels of necromancy illegal in most civilized nations.

[@57WillysCJ]

The Beatles were the band that sang to people but were not the voice of America at that time. CCR was. When Vietnam vets talk about songs that meant something, there are few Beatles songs if any on their list. John is like Sting and others who over shadow everyone else. He is a perfectionist requiring lots of practise to get the sound he was looking for and didn't allow drugs while working. Two things that wouldn't go over big at the time. I can see Tom being upset with little brother taking over, although he could have still held control. He just didn't have it in him. I believe the turmoil of the world infected bands but really rivalry happens always has been there. How many countries have fallen to pieces over sibling rivalry? It is sad because they could have played a lot more good music together. Listening to their different views just means they couldn't communicate with each other. It probably didn't help that their manager was swindling them.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

You make a good point.

[@rylian21]

Why would a British band ever be the voice of America?

[@fivestring65ify]

I always thought the horrific screwing they got from their manager killed the band.

[@dad4ever-c90]

CCR had so many songs that felt like they delivered a powerful message, yet were so easy on the ears you would play them over and over. Still, whenever I hear CCR, my first thought goes back to the misheard lyric, "There's a bathroom on the right." Maybe someday I'll grow up!

[@ProfessorofRock]

So true!

[@serendipityshopnyc]

I heard it that way for years! My favorite misheard lyric, along with a line from "Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow", namely "Can I believe the magic of your size", which changes the sentimental tone of the latter song noticeably!

[@stuartnewman7068]

​@@ProfessorofRockcould do show on misheard lyrics. Only singer I can think of with more misheard lyrics than John Fogerty is Mick.

[@dad4ever-c90]

@@ProfessorofRock "So true?" Adam, are you quoting Spandau Ballet on me? Were you also listening to Marvin all night long? LOL! Sorry, I just couldn't resist. I told you I haven't grown up yet.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I still like to sing the misheard lyric when listening to the song to this day.

[@DarkXid]

This song reminds me of my dad. Early 90's driving to a Star Trek convention 200 miles from home. Dad put on CCR. We were listening to "Have you ever seen the rain." I'd heard it before but never really listened to it. Just sitting there and I asked my dad, "have you ever seen...green?" My dad was like WTF? "Green?!" He started laughing. "Rain.. Have you ever seen the rain.". He we laughed for awhile about that one. Twenty years later and a couple weeks after my dad died, I had just returned to work, and from the circumstances and suddenness of his death hadn't had time to really mourn. I was listening to my music while working on some orders and "Have you ever seen the rain" came on and I sat in my cubicle and started sobbing as that conversation came back to me. I felt like such a tool telling my lead that I needed to leave. I'd been back to work a few days at that point. Now if I want to feel close to him again it's my go to songs.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Touching story. ❤

[@BrianPSpurr]

Best Band ever. Saw them live at the Royal Albert Hall in London just before they broke up. What an awesome show. John is still making fantastic music.

[@jennyjenny4501]

Good morning! Eating peach pancakes with sausage on the side, listening to The Professor enlighten us about CCR! Perfect start to my weekend!

[@Code.Name.V]

Peach pancakes? You have my attention!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Sounds great! What other CCR songs would you like to see?

[@jennyjenny4501]

@@ProfessorofRock any of them!

[@thebellaluna]

CCR rocks! Back in the late 80s, while I was still in college, I used to wait tables at a local Chinese restaurant with another gal, who wound up being my friend. She and her boyfriend set me up with one of his co-workers. The guys would meet us after work around 9 PM, then we'd pile into her boyfriend's car & go over to the Pizza Hut nearby for pizza & beer (!). One rainly night, her boyfriend put on CCR's Have You Ever Seen the Rain as we drove over to eat, then, later cruised the main strip a few times before we all headed home. Good memories of that song & that fun group of folks I hung out with back then, Thanks for letting me share! :)

[@catherine6653]

Have You Ever Seen the Rain is one of my favorite CCR songs. It reminds me of where I live, PNW., it rains a lot here. John Fogerty solo albums are great too; Centerfield and Blue Moon Swamp. It's sad when bands fight and break up.

[@ProfessorofRock]

Love them. What's your CCR top 5?

[@catherine6653]

@@ProfessorofRock I will answer later. Getting ready for work.

[@catherine6653]

@@ProfessorofRock Have You Ever Seen The Rain Lookin' Out My Back Door Bad Moon Rising Down On The Corner Proud Mary

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s sunny clear in my place. There’s a reason why your city is the Rainy City…

[@catherine6653]

@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 The Cascade Mountain Range. Rainy in Western Washington. East of the mountain dry and less trees.

[@rich56ca]

Still my favorite band of all time. Glad Fogertys still rocking. Have seen him 3 times in concert and he’s still got it.

[@lovly2cu725]

COMES TO ARIZONA YEARLY

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

When? Where?

[@kentd4762]

Love so many of their songs. Sibling rivalry destroys so much... Thanks again, Adam.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s sad.

[@debbiereitmulder2151]

CCR brings back memories of my parents....my Mom and Dad were big fans of theirs and so am I . CCR songs bring back pleasant memories of my childhood.

[@badbiker666]

I used to have a buddy that owned an auto body repair shop. He was a MAJOR fan of CCR music. So much so that he named his business Charlie's Collision Repair. His name was Dave. Sorry for the past tense. We've lost track and it's been too long to attempt to catch up. But back then, after we concluded our business discussions, we'd spend the rest of the day talking music. We always talked about putting together a CCR cover band. I regret that it never happened.

[@DanielleWhite]

One of the better takes I've heard on trying to unravel what happened came from Todd in the Shadows, "one side is lying, or maybe both sides are lying, but there's no way that they're all telling the truth." It's just sad how such a powerhouse became a long fight and attempts at score settling.

[@irazzimmer85]

In 1970 I was 13 years old. Professor, another great topic and story. Loved CCR. Listened to WLS in Chicago “Lookin Out My Backdoor” one of my all time favorite songs, Besides I live about three miles from the Indiana /Illinois state line, so the song made sense to me(just got home from Illinois) Thanks for sharing the back story, just saw the CCR music special on PBS recently about their European tour. Beatles announced they were done, the mantle would be passed - just great music by a great band! Thanks again! Almost every segment takes back to my youth and evokes great memories!

[@dancollins4755]

This bands music was played over half the time on our lunchroom jukebox in my high school. Great music and great memories!

[@schmidington]

It's still very surprising that they created such a presence that continues into the modern era and were around for only a few years. CCR continues to live in our hearts.

[@fivestring65ify]

CCR was one of my oldest brothers favorite bands. He learned to play guitar practicing with the bands songs. I grew up listening to them. Love or hate them, CCR were a unique band. Solid. And great songs. They are classic rock at it's best.

[@martineldritch]

CCR had some of the best Summertime music. I remember several of us kids piled in the back of our neighbor's pickup truck barreling down the country roads to go tubing on the creek and then "Proud Mary" started ringing out on the radio. Seen the Rain, sure, but you also see a lot of sun with CCR.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Ike and Tina Turner’s cover of Proud Mary kicks too.

[@MitchBast-xu7jg]

CCR is a once in a lifetime phenomenon. Loved them since childhood. Epic band. Saw Credence Clearwater Revisted about 7 years ago, and it was everything I hoped it would be

[@jklavz]

Should have gone to see Fogerty instead.

[@aprilmorris4588]

I literally grew up singing CCR songs from birth. It was a massive shock when the lawsuit happened between the brothers. I loved it when John went solo and could finally sing his own songs without being sued for sounding too much like himself. SMH. I still love putting CCR on to play and singing along. I think the only other band from that era that I lived more than CCR was The Moody Blues.

[@Sweet--Richard.4981]

CCR filled The Beatles void and ZZ Top filled the CCR void.

[@rogerdeahl9629]

🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉🎉 Professor being sneaky an hour early today. 😅😅 Love CCR! John Fogarty is a giant! CCR was a fave of mine. Fortunate Son was my fave song. Thanks for the early surprise Professor. Enjoy your weekend!

[@ProfessorofRock]

Morning! Have a great weekend!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

A classic.

[@obiobiwan9268]

There was a time in my life when there were 2 bands. The Beatles and Creedence Clearwater Revival. Cosmos Factory & Creedence Gold was my first 2 CCR albums and the White album, 1962-66 & 1967-70 was my first 3 Beatles albums. It was all I had along with a cheap record player and my brother had the 8-track player for the white album 8-track. I played I put a spell on you for my neighbor who said "Anybody can do that!" to which I replied "Anybody isn't doing this, John Fogerty is."

[@DrJosephFMatos]

I always like to try guessing what the song is and/or who the artist(s) is/are before you reveal the answer and without looking at the description. I nailed this!!! Clapped when The Professor of Rock revealed CCR. Yes, a bit satisfying. On another note: I loved CCR. I was really small during their time, but could remember all the songs played because my mother was young and had the hits playing all the time. It is like I grew up with her and her music.

[@DrJosephFMatos]

I really loved this episode.

[@davidhinkson8856]

I didn't realize CCR's run was so short-lived - but they certainly produced some phenomenal and timeless work! My father had the "Cosmo's Factory" album, which I always remembered because of the man "riding a bicycle in the house" on the cover.

[@nedhorner]

I always thought he looked like Jim Henson :)

[@bangitsmom6855]

My parents LOVED CCR! I was born in '66, and heard so much of their music (among other acts) all the time. John Fogarty was why I wanted to be a musician from the earliest age I can remember. My mom always mentions how she would put on CCR and I would bring out the vacuum cleaner as my microphone, the broom as my guitar, and pretend I was John - including his faux delta accent while singing.

[@CMarshallD]

In the mid 80’s i drove to Bend, Oregon from Los Angeles. I had only a few cassette tapes with me for the drive. One was the debut “Kill ‘em All” from some band called Metallica and the other was CCR Chronicles Vol 1. Needless to say, I memorized every single musical nuance to both of those tapes. Yes kids, we listed to tapes back then… auto reverse was your friend- non stop, endless music! I can’t hear either of those bands without thinking of that drive. Good times!

[@gtrgar4561]

In my early days, when I was still learning guitar, I loved playing "Proud Mary", all be it a simplified version. Another CCR song I like to play is their cover of "Suzie Q" with its iconic riff. 🎸😎

[@IRagtop]

Was so “Fortunate” to see John Fogerty live in Cincinnati in June 2018 - in his early 70s, put on a fantastic show. And then immediately followed by ZZ Top. Very blessed to see these legendary performers.

[@JohnRotonto-ql9ds]

I was in an 3 piece acoustic band and "Have you ever seen the rain" was in our repertoire. A great song and a crowd pleaser!! 👍👍🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸

[@MoonShadow74]

"LODI" was the first CCR song that I became aware of from my local radio stations. I used to listen to that song and fantasize about rolling into Lodi, Calif which was maybe 100 miles South of where I lived and getting stuck there. After I graduated high school, I started hitchhiking to the LA area to work for the summer. Sure enough, I got stuck in Lodi. Some nice folks saw me there for almost a day and came over and asked if I would like to have some dinner with them and get out of the heat which hovered around 100F that day. I gladly accepted and they let me take a shower and sleep on the couch too that night. Next day, I walked over to the highway and got a ride several hours later to points South. About three years later, I was again hitching through Lodi and got stuck for 14 hours. Perhaps several years after that, I took a Greyhound bus ride to Lodi just to get out of the Sacramento, Stockton hustle and bustle and again got stuck in Lodi for another couple of days. All the while and realizing the irony, I would put a tape in my little cassette player and sing along to "LODI" over and over and really not mind being stuck so much. Strange things happen sometimes and that connection with the CCR song is my most memorable memory of Creedence Clearwater Revival.

[@richiebricker]

Its hard to believe that Leading Bassline wasnt written first. It sounds so very deliberate, crazy!

[@kimrice394]

Wow! I figured they were together playing for 20yrs. They were a great song making machine! There’s a point when the music becomes far more important than individuals. They had reached that point. Don’t try and fix what isn’t broken. Don’t mess with a man’s vision that made sooooo much wonderful music.

[@gemfyre855]

Have You Ever Seen The Rain is one of my favourite songs ever. It's weird, for a band I enjoy so much, I know very little about CCR, I had NO idea that they were only active for 3 years!

[@user-mn2ib5wb7b]

Some of the best songs of the time and still carries on. My love of CCR's music will never die. Thanks for sharing.

[@stevecrescini2081]

Next to the Allman Brothers, CCR is probably my second favorite American band. Growing up in the Bay Area, they were a staple on AM radio in the late 60’s and have stood the test of time

[@lindaleduke5016]

THE band of my college years. Still favorites in 2023. We heard the best!

[@karenbricker4687]

I still listen to this music and I love it.

[@AbleHammer]

Have you ever seen the rain “. Great song!

[@mbgrocott7115]

When I first heard CCR, it was on my little battery operated AM radio and loved what I heard. Never thought I'd live a few miles from Fogarty Winery.

[@lisabesasie3408]

I was a child of the 60’s, came of age during the 70’s and began our family in the 80’s. I listened to the radio during those 3 amazing decades for music. I am of the opinion that really good music was the “norm” not the exception. When I reflect now CCR was the American voice on the radio. Tom Fogerty was that distinctive voice; albeit honey over gravel would be my description. Professor, you made me ponder what might have been. Thank you.

[@rjasonw74]

Much like the stories you tell of you & your dad listening to music, CCR was my dads favorite band hands down. I still remember riding in some late 7Os model coupe he had souped up for loud engine grunting & peeling the rubber, all the while he’d have CCR blaring on the 8 track with a handmade box in the trunk that had multiple speakers on it. He passed away in 2015 after a long slow decline & battles with illness. He left behind his guitar collection - including a Les Paul that I can’t play a lick on - & his love of music from that era. CCR chief among them. What I wouldn’t give to go back to those carefree childhood days riding in my dads car listening to hit after hit from CCR on that 8 track.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

So sorry. 😢

[@dawnyoung2294]

My favorite car song . They made perfect music together , but broke up in the perfection . Raining on a sunny day . Shining down like water . Beautiful

[@cherylbrowning3303]

Favorite group at the time still a happy Favorite takes me right back to the seventies when life was fun and happy !

[@philhogan5623]

John said he wouldn't sing on his bandmates' songs because his voice was a unique instrument (which it was), yet he happily sang covers such as Good Golly Miss Molly, I Heard It Through the Grapevine, and I Put a Spell On You.

[@jamescpotter]

I'm just grateful for the content they gave us. CCR was made for radio. Oh, on Cosmos Factory, I have never heard a better rendition of I Heard It Through the Grapevine. Wow!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

That’s an amazing version.

[@jeffreyprice1804]

Tru-dat!

[@JW...-oj5iw]

CCR has been one of my favorites since their late '60s heyday. I got to see them live in '69 by my best recollection. They appeared in the Coliseum in Phoenix and played phenomenally. I was still too young to appreciate how good it really was. I just enjoyed it and felt it was as it should be. Several months later, another well known group was scheduled to play the Coliseum. My job at the time had me convinced that I would not be able to attend the concert, especially since it was on a Friday night and I was typically scheduled later in the day at the end of the week. Monday the schedule was posted and I had an early shift on Friday! I was bummed because I was certain that I couldn't get a ticket so late in the game. After all, the concert was all anyone was talking about for weeks before. Wednesday came along and I was sitting in the house doing nothing and for whatever reason, I looked up the phone number for the Coliseum and called them to see if maybe somehow they had any tickets for the concert. I had the thought that maybe someone who bought a ticket previously had to return it for some reason. Well, with no real hope, I made the call and was utterly surprised to be told that sure, there are a lot of tickets available. So then it became a question of how expensive it was going to be. When she said $1.50, I thought she was joking and meant $150.00. I couldn't ever pay the higher figure, but she assured me that $1.50 was the price. I jumped in my black Cadillac El Dorado and shot across town to obtain the buck fifty ticket. I found the little ticket window and purchased my bonafide Coliseum entry ticket for the exact amount of one dollar and fifty cents. If I'd known what was going on in the world, I'd have bought as many of those as I could have. Two days later, I drove to the Coliseum again and found a good spot to park, walked up to the portal and presented my legitimate pass. There was trouble brewing. Some scumball counterfeited concert tickets and the victims were just finding out. Fights broke out between the kids and both security guards and police. During the melee, I made my way inside and found my cheap seat in the balcony behind the stage and quite a way above. Well, nobody tied me to the chair. I spent the vast majority of the time traveling all over the venue. Sometimes I'd be almost on the front of the stage and sometimes I'd be very close to my seat. Most of the time I'd be elsewhere. Who was this super band that had made such a stir? The mighty Led Zeppelin. Here's where the two shows varied greatly for me. I don't remember the price for CCR, but it was well above $1.50 and worth every penny. Zep, on the other hand was in trouble. They probably should have cancelled, but they tried to play. Robert's voice was horrible. Jimmy's guitar work was way off kilter. John Bonham's drumming was erratic at best. The only one who was performing was John Paul Jones on bass, but that can't make a show on its own. In my travels, I was almost directly about Bonham during his "solo" that suddenly stopped without warning or transition. He grabbed a plastic cup and chugged whatever was in it. He then pivoted 180° and puked on the stage behind the drum kit. He returned to position and took a few whacks on the drums, but they were all finished, whether they wanted to be or not. The problem with the band was illness. Flu bug was brutal to 3 out of 4. I was probably the least disappointed person in the Coliseum that night. Up till then, CCR was the best concert for me. The Zep fiasco was and is the best worst concert ever, thanks to that last moment buck fifty ticket. As for the overall best concert for me, it was Manfred Mann's Earth Band and Pablo Cruise at Celebrity Theater. Flawless.

[@DC8091]

CCR is just so . . . BADASS!!! Every time ya hear him, ya need to grab and bottle of Jack and turn the volume to the max!!!!

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

😆

[@jaykay6387]

On the surface, this was a tragedy, but John Fogerty's CCR made a lasting, important and indelible contribution to classic rock. As you said, they were no one hit wonders, what was accomplished in 5 years was remarkable. And Fogerty did eventually make a very impressive solo comeback, so it could be argued that he was able to "square the circle", so to speak on their unfortunate breakup. In all honesty, most bands only have 5 superior, creative years, and then basically coast off of that forever, if they are lucky. I think CCR was able to say all they had to say, and it was a ton.

[@TerrickTerran]

CCR is one of my favorites of all time but I admit my fave song of John is Centerfield

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Great song.

[@rickdrais9737]

During the period when John was unable to record, he was living in Oregon and often took the bus up to Portland. I was in college at the time, and I saw him coming out of the downtown Greyhound bus station wearing a long sleeve red Pendleton shirt with his acoustic on his back several times. Not sure if it was true, but I later heard he was spending time with Ken Kesey, William S Burroughs and the Grateful Dead on Kesey’s farm. I saw Burroughs walking the streets of Portland around that time too. Never actually saw Dylan, but there were stories of him wandering around and hitting Portland’s record stores back then too. Aw, those were the days

[@ChorusArtists]

Awesome deep dive! I still have my original pressing of Cosmos Factory.

[@sueparras6028]

I still love CCR! They were one of those bands that we listened to as teenagers in the 70's all the time. Cosmo's Factory was in everyone's record collection! Simpler times. 😢

[@debbralehrman5957]

CCR was and is one of my favorite band's.. I didn't know that about the song. Thanks Professor for another informative videos.👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼🌺🌺🌺

[@trinaq]

I love this song, ironically, we're currently experiencing quite A LOT of rain in my area! ☔😀

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

I saw a commercial featuring “Up Around the Bend” right before coming to see the comments on today’s video.

[@gregorykiernan7849]

It's a shame...they really had the talent to go some much farther. Still an iconic band with great music. CCR's greatest hits is my go to album when I'm messing around the house.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What’s your favorite song by them?

[@QueenOfTheNorth65]

My 26 year old son LOVES CCR, and has since he first heard them as a child.

[@franciscastiglione5832]

CCR’s story is a tragic example of how you might have a valid and true point, expressed by the band mates in creative input, but it doesn’t mean it’s the right path forward for the band. CCR had a formula that, regardless of what critics said, worked. So it really became an example of, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it.

[@CPegRun]

I was born in Toronto, 1964, and grew up with all kinds of music playing all day, and often most of the night. Have You Ever Seen The Rain is one of my top 5 favourites!! I couldn’t tell you why, but there’s just something in the song that affects me on a deep level!

[@therealstuffedzebra]

Never a CCR fan (too folk/country for my tastes), I nonetheless the find your videos about their success and collapse very interesting and instructive. Lots of great lessons in their story.

[@marisa5359]

My mom's favorite band. Will always appreciate her introducing me to their unique talent. Know the story of their rise and fall in and out, the push and pull of it all, the differing accounts, the underhanded Fantasy Records deal, the ridiculous lawsuit John endured. This song in particular is a heavy one for me when I hear it, knowing the origin and what was to follow. No doubt about John's talent. He is a force. It's astounding. That said, there were three other guys in the band making contributions, however marginalized they have been referenced in some quarters since. I think I can understand how they felt wanting to grow as artists even as I get where John was coming from, too. My take on it all is, that, as ever, the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Becsuse, yes, wow, Fogerty is an exceptional talent, but it is easy to observe he could also be extremely controlling and hyper-focused. I don't have to go any farther than his own autobiography to get that. It comes out naturally in the narrative. These things produced great music, no doubt, but, where it does take two forces to create friction, it is not hard to contribute a fair amount of the heartache to his tendencies, the fall out of which is still in evidence today in the acrimony between him and his bandmates. I hurt for the fact Tom is gone and there are no more chances for the brothers to reconcile. I keep hoping to see healing before the remaining guys go, however pie in the sky that sounds.

[@debidehm9129]

Another great video PofR!

[@eddunn4161]

They were my first 8 track I bought listened to it over and over

[@brendah.6366]

Hey Adam, that song , Centerfield, it reminds me of CCR!!!!😂😂😂

[@jasonmckenzie2835]

Only two years? That's crazy what they accomplished. Susie Q is a personal favorite.

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's insane. Would you like to see something that song?

[@jasonmckenzie2835]

@@ProfessorofRock absolutely

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s a big record broken.

[@jamesstaggs4160]

Amazing how prolific they were in such a short period.

[@grimzadi2480]

My folks had a few CCR albums, but it wasn't until I went to college in the 90s that I really got into them. I had a roommate who was a mega fan. Such a great band.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

What is your favorite by them?

[@grimzadi2480]

@@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980 Tough call. I think Down on the Corner is my favorite.

[@ericbgordon1575]

"Have You Ever Seen the Rain" was my girst Creedence tune. I think I was 4 years old when I first heard it. About 11 years later, I began learning to play guitar, and Creedence' *Chronicle* compilation did much to motivate my early progress. It's kind of funny coincidence that 4 days before this upload, I was looking up that best-selling Creedence album, *Cosmo's Factory.* I was interested to remind myself where one of my favorite songs of theirs originated, "Long as I can See the Light".

[@michaelharrington75]

I don't know how 'Someday Never Comes' didn't make the top 5 on the charts? Easily the best songs on the album, and one of CCR's best songs.

[@ProfessorofRock]

I agree. It's a classic.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

Love that song.

[@bobtricheii8966]

I've always loved CCR! "Have you ever seen the rain" is my all time favorite song!

[@ProfessorofRock]

It's amazing. What else would you like to see on here?

[@bobdavis4848]

How do you like Bonnie Tyler's cover version of it?

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

It’s one of the most iconic songs of the rock era.

[@fjcrod]

Love the CCR sound. Still a staple in my home. Down home toe tapping magic.

[@ednaatluxton4918]

As sad as their breakup was, John was right & it was proved with that lp flopping. He was the voice of the band, the best writer, the genius behind them. He made their success.

[@xxlilly_playsxxkiz9980]

He knew what to do.

[@nedhorner]

The Roger Waters of CCR

[@racheledwards8126]

I remember my best friend's neighbor blasting CCR on his 8-track car stereo. Epic band for sure!

[@jeffcordes3680]

They had so many great songs that they had a full career, regardless of how many years they were together

[@eauhomme]

Just about a year ago I set out on the road Seeking my fame and fortune Looking for a pot of gold But things got bad and things got worse I guess you know the tune Oh Lord, I'm stuck in Lodi again. In 1990 I left Seattle to go to college in Southern California. I had just enough money for gas and fast food. Had to sleep in my car, as I didn't even have enough for a cheap motel. Then my car broke down in, of all places, Lodi. I had never heard of the town or heard the CCR song yet. I made a bunch of calls from a pay phone to every mechanic and tow company I could find, seeing who would take an out-of-state check to help me. Suddenly, the pay phone rang. The guy on the other end said someone had called him, that he was a mechanic who only worked on semis and Greyhound buses so he's not in the yellow pages. He paid for my tow, paid for a motel, and fixed my car before driving to the Western Union office with me the next morning to get money wired from home. Declined a tip, a free lunch, etc. Just said that if I ever got the chance to help someone else who desperately needed it, I should remember this and do so.