Written by: John Fogerty
Released: 1970
US Charts: #8
UK Charts: #36
Other Charts: N/A
Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) is one of the great bands of the late 60s and early 70s and during their relatively short period of existence (5 years), they produced a string of hits, many of which are still stamples of classic rock music stations today. Today, I’ve chosen to feature my favourite song of theirs, “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?”, simply because I have not able to get it out of my mind today. Maybe it’s because today has been a hot summer’s day, that I’ve been wondering about whether rain will ever be seen again. I have no idea why.
CCR’s music has been described as “roots rock” and many other descriptions, but what you do notice when listening to their music is that they are vastly different to any other rock band. It is different but also very distinct making their music memorable and instantly recognizable. “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?” was one of their last major hits and has been interpreted in many ways over the years.
Some have said that the statement “Have you ever seen the rain?” refers to the Vietnam War at the time and bombs falling from the sky. However, CCR was not a band that expressed their political opinions in their songs, the only exception being “Fortunate Son.” The lead singer and writer of the song, John Fogerty, himself stated the song is simply about the rising tensions in the band and the imminent departure of his brother Tom from the band. CCR would be no longer barely a year after the release of this song, so his explanation is probably fitting.
Nevertheless, you can interpret the song any way you wish. Different interpretations give different meanings to different people. For me, it was simply that it was hot sticky summer’s day and that it made me wonder whether I would see the rain. Then I thought about those people who live in arid or desert climates where the sight of rain is few and far between. This kind of meaning makes this song special to me. You may attach a different, more personal meaning. I don’t know. What I do know is that this song is a classic that will remain so for decades to come. Enjoy!
Lyrics can be accessed here.
Chords can be accessed here.
Feel free to comment on this song and/or my review below.
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{ 1 comment… read it below or add one }
Indeed, i have to agree this song kind of weaves the idea of rain on a hot summer day.
The first time i heard this song was when i was still in yr 2… man brings back those unforgetable memories.