- BIST10011,430-2.49%
- USD49.55+0.21%
- EUR55.57-0.09%
- GOLD4,154.80-0.13%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,8480.00%
- October 20, 20268°
- BIST10011,430-2.49%
- USD49.55+0.21%
- EUR55.57-0.09%
- GOLD4,154.80-0.13%
- INTEREST37.00%-1.00
- BITCOIN81,8480.00%
- October 20, 20268°
John Fogerty Responds Calmly to Exclusion from New York Times' Top Songwriters List
John Fogerty remained calm about not being included in the New York Times' list of the 30 greatest living American songwriters. The legendary Creedence Clearwater Revival figure will be honored this week with the Johnny Mercer Award.
John Fogerty said he was not deeply hurt by being left out of the New York Times' list of the 30 greatest living American songwriters. The songs he wrote with Creedence Clearwater Revival are among the most recognized works in American music history.
In a brief statement, Fogerty reminded that the list was limited to only 30 names and noted that many valuable artists were also excluded. He implied that such lists inevitably spark debate.
Unforgettable Songs of the 1970s
Among the classics Fogerty wrote during his time with Creedence Clearwater Revival are Proud Mary, Bad Moon Rising, Down on the Corner, Fortunate Son, Have You Ever Seen the Rain, and Someday Never Comes. This prolific period spanned four years from 1968 to 1972.
His catalog is so strong that the album featuring Creedence Clearwater Revival's best tracks reached its 800th week on the Billboard 200 chart this week. This marks one of the five longest runs in the chart's history.
A New Honor with the Johnny Mercer Award
Fogerty will be honored this week with the Johnny Mercer Award, presented by the Songwriters Hall of Fame. This award is considered the highest honor of the institution.
Fogerty said the award represents his entire life and that the unexpected call moved him emotionally. He sees the award as a recognition of the work he has done.
The artist also acknowledged the influence of predecessors in songwriting tradition, highlighting names like Irving Berlin, Hoagy Carmichael, Lennon-McCartney, and Carole King. He said he grew up listening to these figures from a young age.
Favorite Lyrics and an Overlooked Song
According to Fogerty, one of his favorite lyrics is in the song Mystic Highway. He said the song captures the uncertainty of people journeying through life and still makes him smile.
He identified Weeping in the Promised Land as his most undervalued song. He explained that he wrote the title in his notebook years ago but turned it into a song during the Covid period and lockdowns.
Protest Songs and Current Politics
When asked why fewer protest songs are written today, Fogerty said Bruce Springsteen is still active in this area. He believes young songwriters can address social issues with a more relaxed and bold attitude.
The artist criticized Donald Trump’s approach, accusing him of using fear politics. He said there is a need for repair in health, economy, and civil rights, but a hostile language has come to the forefront.
Fogerty also mentioned the rising protests on U.S. university campuses against harsh measures toward Palestinians in Gaza. He found the youth’s reaction natural and said it is encouraging to see it.
He added that the Israeli government’s stance may not represent the entire Israeli society. In the same conversation, he expressed dissatisfaction with the U.S. administration.
Regaining His Catalog and Selling Possibility
Fogerty recalled a long struggle over the ownership of his songs in the past. Not owning his works was a significant wound in his life and troubled him for years.
Today, since the rights belong to him, he is not open to selling offers. The artist said his only desire now is to keep control over his music.
He also touched on Bob Dylan’s approach to copyrights and legacy, saying that children fighting over songs can be very challenging. According to him, managing music rights is not only an economic issue but also a family matter for artists.
Stay Updated with Ally Daily
Subscribe to be informed about special news, developments and announcements. We will keep you informed.
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Policy
