"Fortunate
Son", written in 1969 at the height of the Vietnam War, has transcended
the decades, seeming as relevant today, even as a theme song for George W Bush
and Donald Trump.
Creedence
Clearwater Revival (one of the best band names!) released several seminal singles of the late
60s such as "Proud Mary" and "Bad Moon Rising", in their
patented roots or swamp rock style, normally
written and sung by John Fogerty.
Opposition to
the Vietnam War was at its peak in 1969, and Fogerty was so incensed by the
privileged marriage of Richard Nixon's
daughter to Dwight Eisenhower’s grandson,
that he wrote ""Fortunate Son in just 20 minutes.
It bridles at
the hypocrisy of an upper class patriotism ("born made to wave the flag"),
while the poorer fight their wars ("they point the cannon at you"). Fogerty is unflinching as he singles out the
sons of millionaire and senators avoiding the draft (he himself had served in
the reserves). The class theme and fake jingoism continues as he targets the
tax evasion ("when the taxman comes to the door / Lord, the house looks
like a rummage sale").
A searing
indictment with Fogerty's gruff and strained vocals, underpinned by the classic
CCR sound. A memorable guitar riff and
the power of the massed guitars and drums.
An unusual
single, as it contains just three verses and no chorus, it captured the
rebellious climate, quickly becoming a
protest classic, and reached top 5 in the US.
"Fortunate
Son" retains its vibrancy and power
today, but its licensing by their record label (Fogerty sold all his rights)
has lead to some good ("Forrest Gump"), some questionable (Vietnam
War video games) and some ridiculous deals (adverts like Wranglers Jeans).
Hopefully cover
versions musicians like Springsteen, U2 and Cat Power have restored its true
meaning. A classic of its time and today.
Hear Now - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ec0XKhAHR5I
Hear Next -
"Chronicle" contains an unbeatable collection of hit singles,
which I have often played.
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