Questions
Who was in Creedence Clearwater Revival?
The classic lineup was brothers John Fogerty (lead vocals and lead guitar) and Tom Fogerty (rhythm guitar), plus Stu Cook on bass and Doug Clifford on drums.
When did the band form and where were they from?
They came together in El Cerrito, California in 1959 as the Blue Velvets, and finally settled on the name Creedence Clearwater Revival in January 1968.
Where did the name Creedence Clearwater Revival come from?
According to band members it drew from three things: a friend named Credence Newball, an Olympia Brewing Company commercial that mentioned clear water, and the group’s renewed commitment. Rejected alternatives reportedly included Muddy Rabbit and Gossamer Wump.
What were their biggest hits?
Fan favorites include Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Fortunate Son, Down on the Corner, and Have You Ever Seen the Rain.
Did CCR ever have a number one single in the US?
No. They famously landed five number-two hits on the Hot 100 without ever reaching the top spot, a record for the most runner-up hits without a number one that has only been exceeded by Madonna, Taylor Swift, and Drake.
How dominant were they on the charts?
Between 1969 and 1971 they scored 14 consecutive top ten singles and 5 consecutive top ten albums, with Green River (1969) and Cosmo’s Factory (1970) both topping the Billboard 200.
Which song is their most covered?
Proud Mary, which peaked at number two, became their most covered song with roughly 100 different versions recorded.
Did they play Woodstock?
Yes, and they were the first major act signed to appear. John Fogerty reportedly vetoed their inclusion in the Woodstock film and soundtrack over equipment and lighting issues, describing the crowd as bodies covered with mud.
Why did the band break up?
Tom Fogerty left in early 1971 citing John’s controlling nature, and the remaining trio disbanded on October 16, 1972 after the poorly received final album Mardi Gras.
Was there really a lawsuit over John Fogerty copying himself?
Yes. Fogerty was reportedly sued for allegedly plagiarizing his own CCR song Run Through the Jungle with his later solo track The Old Man Down the Road.
What happened at their Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction?
At the 1993 induction John Fogerty performed with an all-star band including Bruce Springsteen but excluded Cook and Clifford, who walked out and later called the moment hurtful and insulting.
Did the original members ever reunite?
The full original lineup performed together only once after the breakup, on October 19, 1980 at Tom Fogerty’s wedding.
How well have their records sold?
Their 1976 compilation Chronicle: The 20 Greatest Hits is certified 12 times platinum in the US, and it reached its 750th week on the charts in June 2025.
Did John Fogerty ever get control of the CCR catalog?
After a legal fight spanning about 50 years, Fogerty purchased majority rights to the CCR global catalog from Concord Records in January 2023.
