About the Song
Picture this: It’s the summer of ’69. The air crackles with the energy of a generation gathered at Woodstock, a landmark music festival that would forever define an era. The stage is set, the crowd buzzing with anticipation, and then, the unmistakable swampy, bluesy riffs of Creedence Clearwater Revival fill the air. They launch into “Ninety-Nine And A Half (Won’t Do),” a song that perfectly captures the spirit of the times – a call for authenticity in a world that often felt like it was spinning out of control.
The performance is raw, powerful, and undeniably electrifying. John Fogerty’s vocals, gritty and soulful, cut through the night, while the band’s tight rhythm section lays down a groove that’s both infectious and hypnotic. The lyrics, simple yet profound, speak to the frustration of a generation demanding more than just empty promises and half-hearted efforts. “Ninety-nine and a half just won’t do,” Fogerty sings, his voice echoing the sentiments of countless young people yearning for genuine change.
The Woodstock performance of “Ninety-Nine And A Half (Won’t Do)” is more than just a great song played by a talented band; it’s a snapshot of a cultural moment, a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire. It’s a reminder that even in the face of uncertainty and upheaval, there’s always hope for a better future, as long as we’re willing to stand up and demand it.
As we listen to this recording today, we’re transported back to that magical night at Woodstock, where the music wasn’t just entertainment, it was a force for change. It’s a reminder that the spirit of ’69 lives on, and that the fight for a more just and equitable world continues. And as Fogerty’s voice rings out, “Ninety-nine and a half just won’t do,” we can’t help but feel a surge of inspiration, a renewed commitment to making the world a better place, one step at a time.