About the Song
In the tapestry of rock and roll history, certain songs transcend their original context, weaving a spell that captivates generations. “I Put A Spell On You,” originally penned and performed by the enigmatic Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956, is one such song. However, it’s the 1968 rendition by Creedence Clearwater Revival that etched this bewitching tune into the annals of rock music with their signature swampy sound.
Creedence Clearwater Revival, or CCR, fronted by the songwriting genius John Fogerty, was already a force to be reckoned with by 1968. Their blend of blues, rockabilly, and swamp rock had struck a chord with audiences hungry for authentic, rootsy music. When they tackled “I Put A Spell On You,” they infused it with their own distinctive flavor, transforming it from a theatrical, almost comedic number into a raw, visceral rock anthem.
From the opening drumbeat, CCR’s version grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. John Fogerty’s gritty vocals, snarling with a mix of menace and desperation, perfectly capture the song’s obsessive theme. The band’s tight, driving rhythm section, anchored by Stu Cook’s bass and Doug Clifford’s drums, creates a relentless groove that propels the song forward. Meanwhile, Fogerty’s searing guitar licks add a layer of intensity, echoing the protagonist’s burning desire.
While the original version of “I Put A Spell On You” had a touch of the macabre, CCR’s rendition is more grounded, focusing on the raw emotion of the lyrics. It’s a song about obsession, about a love so powerful it borders on madness. Fogerty’s delivery makes you feel the protagonist’s pain and desperation, his yearning for a love that may be unattainable.
CCR’s “I Put A Spell On You” is a testament to the band’s ability to take a song and make it their own. They stripped away the theatrics and injected it with their own brand of swampy, blues-infused rock and roll. The result is a powerful, timeless classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. It’s a song that casts a spell, drawing you in with its raw emotion and undeniable energy.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of CCR or discovering their music for the first time, their rendition of “I Put A Spell On You” is a must-listen. It’s a reminder of the power of rock and roll to capture the human experience in all its complexity, from the heights of joy to the depths of despair. So turn up the volume, let the music wash over you, and experience the magic of CCR’s “I Put A Spell On You.”
Barbara Desetto