About the Song
In the heart of the late 1960s, amidst a swirling landscape of psychedelic experimentation and social upheaval, a band from El Cerrito, California, offered a refreshing counterpoint. Creedence Clearwater Revival, with their roots-rock sound and straightforward lyrics, struck a chord with audiences yearning for authenticity. Their self-titled debut album in 1968 served as a potent introduction, and nestled within its grooves was a song that hinted at the band’s future greatness: “Walk On The Water”.
While not a chart-topping hit, “Walk On The Water” holds a special place in the Creedence Clearwater Revival canon. It’s a song that showcases the band’s early strengths: John Fogerty’s raw, emotive vocals, the tight interplay between the instruments, and a lyrical depth that belied the band’s youthful exuberance. The song’s title, with its biblical connotations, might lead one to expect a spiritual anthem. However, “Walk On The Water” is more grounded, exploring themes of love, loss, and the challenges of navigating life’s unpredictable currents.
Fogerty’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a relationship in turmoil. The narrator, seemingly addressing a former lover, reflects on a love that once felt miraculous, capable of defying the odds. The image of walking on water serves as a metaphor for this transcendent connection. Yet, as the song progresses, it becomes clear that this love has faltered. The waters, once calm, have grown turbulent. There’s a sense of regret, even bitterness, as the narrator grapples with the aftermath of this broken bond.
Musically, “Walk On The Water” is a testament to Creedence Clearwater Revival’s ability to blend various influences into a cohesive whole. The song’s foundation is built on a bluesy, swamp-rock groove, driven by Stu Cook’s steady bassline and Doug Clifford’s propulsive drumming. Tom Fogerty’s rhythm guitar adds texture and depth, while John Fogerty’s lead guitar work, though restrained, provides moments of fiery intensity. The song’s arrangement is deceptively simple, allowing the raw emotion of the lyrics to take center stage.
Listening to “Walk On The Water” today, one can’t help but marvel at its timeless quality. It’s a song that speaks to the universal human experience of love and heartbreak. While Creedence Clearwater Revival would go on to achieve greater commercial success with songs like “Proud Mary” and “Bad Moon Rising,” “Walk On The Water” remains a hidden gem, a testament to the band’s early promise and a reminder of the enduring power of honest, heartfelt music.