About the song
“Fortunate Son” is a song by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). It was released on their fourth studio album, Willy and the Poor Boys, in October 1969. It was also released as a single that same month, backed with “Down on the Corner”. The song was written by CCR’s lead singer and guitarist, John Fogerty.
Composition and lyrics
“Fortunate Son” is a rock song with a driving beat and a strong guitar riff. The song’s lyrics are critical of the Vietnam War and the wealthy and powerful who send young men to fight in wars while they themselves remain safe at home.
The song begins with the line, “Some folks are born made to wave the flag,” which sets the tone for the rest of the song. Fogerty sings about how some people are born into privilege and wealth, while others are born into poverty and hardship. He sings about how the wealthy and powerful send the poor to fight in wars, while they themselves stay home and profit from the war.
Critical reception
“Fortunate Son” was a critical and commercial success. It reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and number 2 on the UK Singles Chart. The song has been praised for its powerful lyrics and its driving beat. It has been covered by many artists, including Metallica, Bruce Springsteen, and Rage Against the Machine.
Legacy
“Fortunate Son” is one of the most iconic and influential songs of the Vietnam War era. It has been used in many films and television shows, including Forrest Gump, The Big Lebowski, and The Sopranos. The song continues to be relevant today, as it speaks to the universal themes of war, poverty, and injustice.
Interesting facts
- “Fortunate Son” was written by John Fogerty in response to the Vietnam War.
- The song was released in 1969, the same year as the Woodstock music festival.
- “Fortunate Son” has been covered by many artists, including Metallica, Bruce Springsteen, and Rage Against the Machine.
- The song was used in the films Forrest Gump, The Big Lebowski, and The Sopranos.
- “Fortunate Son” is considered one of the most iconic and influential songs of the Vietnam War era.
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