A Song For Everyone: The Story of Creedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival was a big band in the 1960s,but no book has ever explored their story in conversation with their time. A Song for Everyone tells the thirteen-year saga of their journey through 1960s pop and their slow accrual of a sound and ethos that were aligned with the concerns of the decade's end. It draws on research into social and musical developments, original interviews, and unpublished memoirs to provide the definitive account of the legendary and still-beloved American band.

Format: Hardback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 25 August 2022
Publisher: Hachette Books

From 1969 to 1971, Creedence Clearwater Revival emerged as the unrivaled powerhouse of American music, captivating the nation with a two-year streak of top-10 singles and albums that served as an omnipresent soundtrack to one of the most turbulent periods in modern American history. Their enduring popularity has remained steadfast, yet no book has ever delved into the intricate conversation between Creedence and their era.

A Song for Everyone, a groundbreaking work, finally unravels the thirteen-year saga of this modest suburban quartet's remarkable journey through the vibrant landscapes of 1960s pop. Beginning in their middle school years, these Californian friends and brothers traversed the expansive decade of American music, navigating the evolving genres of R&B, country, and rock 'n' roll under various aliases. It was in 1968 that they forged a new identity, Creedence Clearwater Revival, which instantly became epochal, only to crumble under the weight of personal grievances that dated back to their adolescence.

In A Song for Everyone, author John Swenson employs a comprehensive approach, drawing upon extensive research into the social and musical developments of 1959-1972. Extensive original interviews with surviving Creedence members and associates provide invaluable insights, while unpublished memoirs from those who knew the group intimately offer a unique perspective. This definitive account of Creedence Clearwater Revival is a cultural history that delves into the contradictions and complexities of their time, shedding light on the band's enduring legacy.

Creedence Clearwater Revival's music transcended boundaries, resonating with audiences across generations. Their songs, filled with raw emotion and powerful lyrics, captured the essence of the 1960s counterculture, resonating with the struggles and aspirations of a generation. From the iconic "Proud Mary" to "Fortunate Son," their music continues to inspire and influence artists worldwide.

Beyond their musical prowess, Creedence Clearwater Revival's impact extended to their role as cultural icons. They embodied the contradictions and difficulties of their time, reflecting the social and political upheaval of the era. Their music became a rallying cry for those seeking change, a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire.

In conclusion, A Song for Everyone is a groundbreaking work that fills a significant gap in the literature on Creedence Clearwater Revival. Through meticulous research, original interviews, and unpublished memoirs, author John Swenson offers a comprehensive and captivating account of the band's journey. This book not only sheds light on the music and legacy of Creedence Clearwater Revival but also provides a valuable cultural history of the 1960s, resonating with fans and scholars alike. Creedence Clearwater Revival's music continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of music to transcend time and shape our collective memory.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780306846717