About the song
“Proud Mary” is a classic song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival, written by their lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty. Released as a single in January 1969, it quickly gained popularity, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March of the same year. This marked the first of five times that the band’s singles peaked at No. 2.
The song’s success didn’t stop there. Later in 1969, R&B singer Solomon Burke recorded his version, which reached No. 15 on the Billboard R&B chart. However, it was the rendition by the dynamic R&B duo Ike & Tina Turner that truly made waves. Released in 1971, their version climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 5 on the Billboard R&B chart. Their powerful performance earned them a Grammy Award in 1972. Tina Turner continued to perform “Proud Mary” throughout her solo career, offering new interpretations on both studio and live albums.
John Fogerty crafted “Proud Mary” in the two days following his discharge from the National Guard. The song was inspired by various elements, including riffs conceived during a concert at the Avalon Ballroom and parts of different songs, one of which was about a washerwoman named Mary. The lyrics reflect a sense of escape and renewal, as the singer leaves a challenging job in the city for a new life on a riverboat. This journey represents both physical and spiritual liberation, a theme deeply rooted in literature and music.
The song features a mix of musical influences, blending elements of gospel and rock. Fogerty aimed to create an opening reminiscent of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony and drew inspiration from gospel harmonies and guitar work from influential groups. Recorded at RCA Studios in Hollywood, “Proud Mary” showcases the talents of John Fogerty and his bandmates, with John handling most of the instruments and vocals.
“Proud Mary” remains a beloved piece of American music history, celebrated for its rich blend of musical traditions and its powerful message of transformation and freedom.
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Lyrics
Left a good job in the city
Workin’ for the man every night and day
And I never lost one minute of sleepin’
Worryin’ ’bout the way things might have beenBig wheel keep on turnin’
Proud Mary keep on burnin’
Rollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the riverCleaned a lot of plates in Memphis
Pumped a lot of ‘tane down in New Orleans
But I never saw the good side of the city
Till I hitched a ride on a river boat queenBig wheel keep on turnin’
Proud Mary keep on burnin’
Rollin’, rollin’ (Roll on), rollin’ on the riverRollin’, rollin’, rollin’ on the river