Fortunate Son
My Life, My Music
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4.4 • 124 Ratings
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- $15.99
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- $15.99
Publisher Description
The long-awaited memoir from John Fogerty, the legendary singer-songwriter and creative force behind Creedence Clearwater Revival.
Creedence Clearwater Revival is one of the most important and beloved bands in the history of rock, and John Fogerty wrote, sang, and produced their instantly recognizable classics: "Proud Mary," "Bad Moon Rising," "Born on the Bayou," and more. Now he reveals how he brought CCR to number one in the world, eclipsing even the Beatles in 1969. By the next year, though, Creedence was falling apart; their amazing, enduring success exploded and faded in just a few short years.
Fortunate Son takes readers from Fogerty's Northern California roots, through Creedence's success and the retreat from music and public life, to his hard-won revival as a solo artist who finally found love.
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
It is fitting that writing i.e., songwriting is the main theme of Fogerty's biography, which was penned with the same depth of feeling as his music. Fogerty (b. 1945) has written some of the finest rock 'n' roll songs in the American canon, including "Proud Mary," "Bad Moon Rising," and the titular "Fortunate Son." Here, he recounts his life chronologically from his introduction to Stephen Foster's work as a child to the writing of his megahits for Creedence Clearwater Revival starting in the late 1960s. Musicians will revel in the details about chord and tempo changes, while other fans will be interested in the stories behind the CCR classics. Fogerty carefully documents the personal, financial, and legal issues with his band mates and record label that left Fogerty without the rights to his songs and so depressed he was unable to write new music for years. Arguing that his CCR band mates sold him out and explaining why he didn't play with them at the band's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction, Fogerty slings just enough dirt to keep the courtroom and tabloid tales interesting; but he mostly focuses on his own battles with alcohol and depression. Interestingly, his wife Julie, whom he credits with getting his life and career back on track, contributes sections towards the end of the book, portraying Fogerty as others saw him. But this isn't just an account of one musician's ups and downs with art and life; Fogerty has created a solid study of popular music over the past 50 years.
Customer Reviews
Amazing Journey.
As incredible as his songs are, this narrative of his life is equally compelling. I think it also speaks to the dark places that alcohol can take us to. I am glad Mr. Fogerty eventually found his way out of that dark place.
The music business - takers and givers
A crazy read; jumps around a little and John has many "best" idols and records that have inspired him. Growing up in the 60's this was interesting to read about the how and why of the music that was made. I ended up down loading several songs I didn't have in my library because of it.
An Eye Opener
I learned a lot about one of my favorite bands. John Fogerty's personal insights really hit home. As a fan of his music and writing it now all makes sense to me. Makes me want to play all the songs and listen even more closely.