Let's dive into the fascinating world of songwriting and the legacy of John Fogerty, an iconic figure in American music. This article will explore his thoughts on being snubbed by The New York Times' list of greatest living songwriters, the evolution of protest songs, and his journey to reclaiming his musical rights.
The Snub and the Legacy
John Fogerty, the legendary frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival, has left an indelible mark on the American songbook. His four-year stint with the band produced an incredible array of hits, including "Proud Mary," "Bad Moon Rising," and "Fortunate Son." It's a testament to his talent that CCR's greatest hits album has spent an unprecedented 800 weeks on the Billboard 200 albums chart.
Despite this, Fogerty was notably absent from The New York Times' list of 30 greatest living American songwriters. While he takes the omission in stride, attributing it to the limited number of spots and the requirement to be alive, it's hard not to question the oversight. After all, his body of work speaks for itself, and the upcoming Johnny Mercer award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame is a testament to his enduring impact.
The Johnny Mercer Award: A Lifetime Achievement
The Johnny Mercer award is a pinnacle moment for any songwriter. For Fogerty, it's a recognition of his entire career and a validation of his craft. When he received the news, he was overwhelmed with emotion, feeling a deep connection to the giants of songwriting who came before him, like Irving Berlin and Hoagy Carmichael.
One of Fogerty's most cherished lyrics is from "Mystic Highway," a song about the journey we all take in life. The line, "without knowing where I'm going, probably get there anyway," resonates deeply with him, reflecting a sense of mystical faith and a chuckle-worthy outlook on life's journey.
Protest Songs and Social Commentary
Fogerty is known for his iconic protest songs, and it's a genre he believes is lacking in today's music scene. He attributes this to the fear-mongering tactics of politicians like Donald Trump, who divert attention from real issues like civil rights and healthcare. In contrast, he highlights the power of young people to speak out, as seen in the protests against Israeli government actions during the Biden administration.
He draws a parallel to the protest songs of the '60s and '70s, like "Ohio" by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and the Kent State shootings. The youth of today, he believes, still recognize the power of these songs, even if they aren't embraced by society as a whole.
The Business of Songwriting
The business side of songwriting is a complex and often contentious issue. Fogerty's own journey to reclaiming his musical rights was tumultuous, and he now finds himself in a position where he could sell his catalog for a substantial sum. However, he's cautious, understanding the emotional attachment to his songs and the potential for family disputes over ownership.
He draws inspiration from Bob Dylan's decision to sell his catalog, seeing it as a way to avoid potential family conflicts and ensure a comfortable future for his loved ones. It's a pragmatic approach, but one that allows him to maintain control over the legacy of his music.
Re-Recording and Taylor Swift
Fogerty's decision to re-record his songs was influenced by Taylor Swift's own journey with her catalog. He shares a special bond with Swift, having introduced her music to his daughter at a young age. The two have a mutual understanding of the pain and motivation behind re-recording, and Fogerty was impressed by Swift's ability to purchase her masters back.
His re-records were a family affair, with his sons and daughters involved, giving him a sense of closure and a happier perspective on his songs. It's a Hollywood ending to a tumultuous chapter in his life, and he credits his wife, Julie, for instigating this healing process.
Conclusion
John Fogerty's journey as a songwriter is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and connect generations. His legacy is secure, and the Johnny Mercer award is a well-deserved recognition of his impact on American music. As he navigates the business side of songwriting, he does so with a keen awareness of the emotional and practical considerations, ensuring that his music continues to resonate for years to come.
