CCR: The Untold Story Of Creedence Clearwater Revival's Rise & Fall

Ward Ullrich 13 May 2025

Have you ever heard a song that instantly transports you to another time and place? A time of change, of turmoil, and of incredible music? Creedence Clearwater Revival achieved precisely that, etching their raw, swamp-infused rock into the very fabric of American culture.

From the late 1960s to the early 1970s, Creedence Clearwater Revival, often abbreviated as CCR or simply Creedence, dominated the airwaves. Formed in El Cerrito, California, the band's core consisted of John Fogerty, the lead vocalist, lead guitarist, and primary songwriter; his brother Tom Fogerty, the rhythm guitarist; Stu Cook on bass; and Doug Clifford on drums. This quartet, having honed their skills together since 1959 under names like the Blue Velvets, crafted a sound that resonated deeply with a nation grappling with war, social upheaval, and a burgeoning counterculture. Their music, seemingly simple, yet brimming with evocative lyrics and raw energy, became the soundtrack to a generation. Even if, for some reason, you don't immediately recognize the name Creedence Clearwater Revival, the moment you hear "Fortunate Son," "Bad Moon Rising," or "Proud Mary," you know the songs, their influence is undeniable.

Attribute	Details
Band Name	Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR)
Origin	El Cerrito, California, United States
Years Active	1967-1972
Genre	Rock, Swamp Rock, Blues Rock, Country Rock
Members	John Fogerty (Lead Vocals, Lead Guitar, Keyboards, Harmonica, Saxophone) Tom Fogerty (Rhythm Guitar, Backing and Lead Vocals) Stu Cook (Bass, Backing Vocals, Keyboards) Doug Clifford (Drums, Backing Vocals)
Key Albums	Creedence Clearwater Revival (1968) Bayou Country (1969) Green River (1969) Willy and the Poor Boys (1969) Cosmo's Factory (1970) Pendulum (1970) Mardi Gras (1972)
Hall of Fame Induction	Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1993)
Estimated Album Sales (US)	26 Million
Founding Year	1967 (as Creedence Clearwater Revival)
Earlier Incarnations	The Blue Velvets, The Golliwogs
Notable Songs	Proud Mary Bad Moon Rising Fortunate Son Green River Down on the Corner Have You Ever Seen the Rain? Travelin' Band
Related Acts	John Fogerty (Solo Career), Stu Cook (Don Harrison Band, Creedence Clearwater Revisited), Doug Clifford (Don Harrison Band, Creedence Clearwater Revisited)
Legacy	Considered one of the greatest American rock bands of all time; known for their concise, impactful songwriting and their blend of blues, country, and rock and roll influences.
Official Website	Creedence Clearwater Revival Official Website