About This Song
For those who lived through the turbulent late 1960s, the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival served as both a reflection of the times and an escape from them. With their rootsy, swampy sound and John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals, CCR captured the essence of American rock and roll in its purest form. Among their many classic hits, “Commotion” stands out as a testament to the band’s ability to blend raw energy with lyrical depth.
Released in 1969 as part of their landmark album “Green River,” “Commotion” immediately grabs the listener with its driving rhythm and infectious guitar riff. Fogerty’s voice, at once gritty and soulful, delivers the lyrics with a sense of urgency and conviction. The song paints a vivid picture of a world in chaos, where social unrest and personal struggles collide. The “commotion” described in the song is both literal and metaphorical, representing the external turmoil of the era as well as the internal conflicts that many people were experiencing.
The song’s lyrics are filled with evocative imagery and poetic language. Lines like “Here comes the rain, gonna wash away my pain” and “Commotion, all around me, people changing, can’t you see?” capture the sense of disorientation and uncertainty that characterized the late 1960s. Fogerty’s songwriting is both personal and universal, speaking to the individual’s experience while also reflecting the broader social and political climate.
Musically, “Commotion” is a masterclass in rock and roll simplicity. The band’s tight interplay and Fogerty’s powerful vocals create a sound that is both raw and polished. The song’s structure is straightforward, but its impact is undeniable. The driving rhythm, coupled with the soaring guitar solo, creates a sense of momentum that propels the song forward. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “Commotion,” is both catchy and anthemic, inviting the listener to sing along and become part of the musical experience.
“Commotion” is a song that has resonated with audiences for decades. Its timeless message of struggle and resilience continues to speak to listeners of all ages. The song’s raw energy and emotional depth make it a classic example of rock and roll at its finest. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Creedence Clearwater Revival or a newcomer to their music, “Commotion” is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression. It is a testament to the power of music to capture the spirit of an era and to speak to the human condition in a way that transcends time and place.
Barbara Desetto