About the Song
There are moments in music history that transcend the mere act of performance, becoming cultural touchstones that resonate across generations. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s rendition of “I Put A Spell On You” at the legendary Woodstock Music & Art Fair in 1969 is undeniably one such moment.
Originally penned and performed by the iconic Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956, the song is a raw, bluesy exploration of desire and obsession. Hawkins’s theatrical delivery, complete with voodoo-inspired imagery, made it a cult classic. However, when Creedence took to the stage at Woodstock in the early hours of a misty Sunday morning, they infused the song with their own brand of swampy, roots rock energy, creating a performance that was both electrifying and unforgettable.
John Fogerty’s gritty vocals, coupled with the band’s tight, driving rhythm section, transformed the song into a powerful anthem of yearning. The band’s performance was a testament to their ability to take a well-known song and make it their own, imbuing it with a sense of urgency and authenticity that resonated with the massive crowd gathered at Woodstock.
The Woodstock performance of “I Put A Spell On You” is particularly noteworthy for its extended guitar solo, a showcase of Fogerty’s blues-influenced guitar prowess. The solo builds in intensity, mirroring the song’s lyrical themes of escalating desire and passion. It’s a moment of pure musical expression, capturing the raw energy and spirit of the Woodstock festival.
While Creedence Clearwater Revival’s set at Woodstock was unfortunately omitted from the original documentary film, the audio recording of “I Put A Spell On You” has lived on, capturing the essence of their performance and serving as a reminder of the band’s undeniable talent and their place in music history. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music, and a reminder of the magic that can happen when a band, a song, and an audience come together in a moment of shared experience.