11 Underrated Ccr Songs: 11 Must-Hear Ccr Tracks

Hey there, fellow music enthusiasts! It’s TBone here from Level Tunes, your go-to DJ and music aficionado. Today, I’m super excited to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart – the underrated gems of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). As a DJ, I’ve always been fascinated by tracks that don’t always hit the mainstream radar but are absolute gold.

CCR, known for their unique blend of swamp rock, has a treasure trove of such songs. I’ve handpicked 11 of these underrated classics to share with you.

Why?

Because these tracks showcase the depth and versatility of CCR beyond their chart-toppers. They deserve a spot in your playlist, and I can’t wait to explore them with you. Let’s rediscover the magic of CCR together!

Here are the Underrated Ccr songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Ccr Songs

Underrated Ccr songs in a list format:

1. “Wrote a Song for Everyone”

From the album ‘Green River,’ released in 1969 under Fantasy Records, “Wrote a Song for Everyone” is a CCR classic that often flies under the radar. Written by John Fogerty, this song is a poignant reflection on communication breakdowns in relationships. Its heartfelt lyrics and the blend of rock and country elements showcase Fogerty’s songwriting prowess. The song features the classic CCR lineup with Fogerty’s raw vocals and guitar, Stu Cook on bass, Doug Clifford on drums, and Tom Fogerty on rhythm guitar. I chose this track for its emotional depth and the way it resonates with anyone who’s ever felt misunderstood.

2. “Effigy”

“Effigy,” from the 1969 album ‘Willy and the Poor Boys’ by Fantasy Records, is a hauntingly beautiful track. Authored by John Fogerty, it stands out for its dark, brooding tone, a stark contrast to CCR’s usual upbeat style. The song’s slow burn and Fogerty’s powerful vocals, combined with the band’s tight instrumentation, create an atmosphere of introspection. This song is a testament to CCR’s ability to explore different moods and themes, making it a must-listen for any music lover seeking depth and complexity in rock music.

3. “Long As I Can See the Light”

Featured on the 1970 album ‘Cosmo’s Factory’ under Fantasy Records, “Long As I Can See the Light” is a soulful ballad that showcases a different side of CCR. Written by John Fogerty, the song’s tender melody and reflective lyrics speak of hope and longing. The saxophone solo adds a layer of warmth, making it a standout track. This song is a personal favorite for its ability to evoke a sense of comfort and reassurance, qualities that are often overlooked in rock music.

4. “Pagan Baby”

From their 1970 album ‘Pendulum,’ released by Fantasy Records, “Pagan Baby” is a hidden gem. John Fogerty’s dynamic songwriting shines through in this energetic track. The song features a fantastic guitar riff and a rhythm section that keeps the energy high. It’s a testament to the band’s rock roots and showcases their ability to create a song that’s both powerful and catchy. I chose this song for its raw energy and the way it captures the essence of classic rock.

5. “Sailor’s Lament”

“Sailor’s Lament” is a track from the 1970 album ‘Pendulum,’ produced by Fantasy Records. Authored by John Fogerty, this song stands out for its melancholic melody and reflective lyrics, which delve into themes of longing and nostalgia. The harmonious blend of guitar, bass, and drums, along with Fogerty’s emotive vocals, creates a poignant listening experience. This track is a hidden treasure for its lyrical depth and the emotional resonance it brings.

6. “It’s Just a Thought”

Featured on the ‘Pendulum’ album of 1970 by Fantasy Records, “It’s Just a Thought” is a reflective and introspective song. John Fogerty’s songwriting explores themes of existence and consciousness, set against a backdrop of mellow melodies. The song’s contemplative nature and the band’s cohesive performance make it a standout track. I find this song captivating for its philosophical lyrics and the serene mood it creates, offering a deeper look into the band’s range.

7. “Walk on the Water”

From their debut album ‘Creedence Clearwater Revival’ in 1968, released by Fantasy Records, “Walk on the Water” is an early showcase of the band’s raw talent. Written by John Fogerty and his brother Tom Fogerty, this song features gritty guitar riffs and a driving rhythm section. The song’s energetic and slightly psychedelic vibe sets it apart from their later hits. I love this track for its raw, unpolished energy and the glimpse it offers into the band’s early days.

8. “Rude Awakening #2”

“Rude Awakening #2,” from the 1970 album ‘Pendulum,’ is a unique track in CCR’s discography. This instrumental piece, crafted by John Fogerty, is an experimental foray into psychedelic rock. The song’s intricate layers and unexpected shifts in tempo and tone make it a fascinating listen. It’s a bold departure from their usual style, and I admire it for its creativity and the way it challenges the listener’s expectations.

9. “Hideaway”

Featured on the 1972 album ‘Mardi Gras,’ released by Fantasy Records, “Hideaway” is a fun and upbeat track. Written by John Fogerty, this song is a nod to traditional rock and roll, with its lively rhythm and catchy melody. The song’s joyful vibe and danceable beat make it a great example of CCR’s versatility. I chose this song for its infectious energy and the way it captures the spirit of classic rock and roll.

10. “Take It Like a Friend”

From the ‘Mardi Gras’ album of 1972, “Take It Like a Friend” is a standout track. Authored by Stu Cook, this song diverges from CCR’s typical sound, featuring a more laid-back, country-rock style. The song’s storytelling lyrics and relaxed tempo offer a refreshing change of pace. I appreciate this track for its narrative quality and the way it showcases the band’s ability to explore different genres.

11. “Need Someone to Hold”

“Need Someone to Hold,” also from the ‘Mardi Gras’ album, is a heartfelt track written by Doug Clifford and Stu Cook. This song features soulful vocals and a smooth melody, highlighting a softer side of CCR. The emotional depth and the gentle arrangement make it a memorable song. I find this track particularly touching for its emotional honesty and the soothing quality of its melody, making it a perfect closing song for our exploration of CCR’s underrated tracks.

Fun Facts: Underrated Ccr Songs

“Wrote a Song for Everyone”

• Fact 1: This song was covered by John Fogerty himself in a duet with Miranda Lambert, featuring Tom Morello on guitar, for his 2013 album “Wrote a Song for Everyone.”
• Fact 2: The song reflects Fogerty’s feelings of alienation and misunderstanding, themes that were quite personal to him, making it one of the more introspective songs in CCR’s catalog.

“Effigy”

• Fact 1: “Effigy” is often interpreted as a political statement, with its haunting lyrics and somber tone reflecting the tumultuous era of the late 1960s in America.
• Fact 2: The song’s length, over six minutes, makes it one of the longest tracks CCR ever recorded, showcasing their ability to sustain a mood and theme over an extended period.

“Long As I Can See the Light”

• Fact 1: The song’s flip side was “Lookin’ Out My Back Door,” and this combination became a double-sided hit, showing the band’s versatility in both upbeat and more soulful, reflective songs.
• Fact 2: The saxophone solo, which adds a unique touch to the song, was played by John Fogerty himself, demonstrating his multi-instrumental talents.

“Pagan Baby”

• Fact 1: “Pagan Baby” is known for its extended guitar solo by John Fogerty, which takes up almost half of the song, showcasing his exceptional skills as a guitarist.
• Fact 2: The song’s energetic style and rhythm make it a favorite among CCR fans, particularly those who appreciate the band’s rockier side.

“Sailor’s Lament”

• Fact 1: This track is noted for its melodic and softer approach, contrasting with many of CCR’s more popular, hard-driving rock songs.
• Fact 2: The song’s nautical theme fits well with the band’s penchant for Americana and storytelling, adding a unique flavor to their diverse catalog.

“It’s Just a Thought”

• Fact 1: “It’s Just a Thought” is notable for its philosophical lyrics, a departure from the band’s more straightforward, narrative-driven songs.
• Fact 2: The song’s mellow and introspective nature showcases CCR’s ability to explore different musical territories, including more contemplative and introspective themes.

“Walk on the Water”

• Fact 1: This song is a reworked version of “Walking on the Water,” which John and Tom Fogerty recorded earlier in their career with the band The Golliwogs.
• Fact 2: The song’s slightly psychedelic vibe hints at the band’s early influences and their transition from The Golliwogs to the more defined sound of CCR.

“Rude Awakening #2”

• Fact 1: As an instrumental track, “Rude Awakening #2” stands out in CCR’s discography, which is primarily known for its strong vocal and lyrical content.
• Fact 2: The song’s experimental nature and departure from the typical CCR sound reflect the band’s willingness to take risks and explore new musical directions.

“Hideaway”

• Fact 1: “Hideaway” showcases CCR’s ability to create straightforward, high-energy rock and roll, a testament to their roots and influences.
• Fact 2: The song’s lively and upbeat nature makes it a hidden gem for those looking to explore beyond the band’s more well-known hits.

“Take It Like a Friend”

• Fact 1: Authored by bassist Stu Cook, this song is one of the few CCR tracks not written by John Fogerty, indicating the band’s collaborative spirit.
• Fact 2: The song’s country-rock style is indicative of the band’s versatility and ability to blend different genres into their unique sound.

“Need Someone to Hold”

• Fact 1: Written by drummer Doug Clifford and bassist Stu Cook, this song is another example of CCR’s members exploring their songwriting abilities beyond John Fogerty’s contributions.
• Fact 2: The track’s soulful and emotional delivery showcases a different side of CCR, focusing more on the emotional depth and less on the rock-driven energy they are commonly known for.

And there you have it, folks! A journey through the lesser-known but equally brilliant tracks of CCR. These songs are a testament to the band’s versatility and depth. I hope you enjoyed this musical exploration as much as I did. Keep rocking and discovering new tunes!

Thanks for reading.

TBone