Creedence Clearwater Revival – Proud Mary – 1969

About The Song

“Proud Mary” is a classic rock song by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), released in 1969. Written by John Fogerty, it became one of CCR’s most recognizable and enduring hits. Here are five facts about the song:

1. Inspiration for the Song: John Fogerty wrote “Proud Mary” after watching a steamboat on television. The lyrics convey a sense of nostalgia and longing, with the narrator reflecting on life’s challenges while finding solace in the simple joys of a riverboat journey.
2. Distinctive Guitar Riff: The song is instantly recognizable by its distinctive guitar riff, played by John Fogerty. The driving and rhythmic quality of the riff contributes to the energetic and timeless appeal of “Proud Mary.”
3. Versatility in Style: “Proud Mary” showcases CCR’s ability to seamlessly blend various musical styles. The song starts with a slow, soulful groove and transitions into an upbeat, rockin’ tempo. This versatility contributed to its broad appeal and chart success.
4. Commercial Success: The single was a major commercial success for CCR, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It remains one of the band’s most popular and enduring songs.
5. Tina Turner’s Cover: While CCR’s version is iconic, “Proud Mary” gained further fame when Tina Turner covered it in 1971. Turner’s dynamic and soulful rendition became a chart-topping hit and is often associated with her career-defining performances.

“Proud Mary” is not only a testament to CCR’s musical prowess but also a song that has transcended generations, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of classic rock. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timelessness of CCR’s music.

Video

Lyrics

Left a good job in the city
Workin’ for the man ev’ry night and day
And I never lost one minute of sleepin’
Worryin’ ’bout the way things might have been

Big wheel keep on turnin’
Proud Mary keep on burnin’
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

Cleaned a lot of plates in Memphis
Pumped a lot of ‘pane down in New Orleans
But I never saw the good side of the city
‘Til I hitched a ride on a river boat queen

Big wheel keep on turnin’
Proud Mary keep on burnin’
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

If you come down to the river
Bet you gonna find some people who live
You don’t have to worry ’cause you have no money
People on the river are happy to give

Big wheel keep on turnin’
Proud Mary keep on burnin’
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river

Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river