About the Song
The year is 1970. America is a nation divided. The Vietnam War rages on, casting a long shadow over the country. The counterculture movement is in full swing, challenging traditional values and institutions. Amidst this turbulent backdrop, Creedence Clearwater Revival takes the stage at the Oakland Coliseum on a cold January night. The energy is palpable, the crowd eager. And then, the opening chords of “Who’ll Stop The Rain” ring out.
This isn’t just any song; it’s an anthem for a generation. Written by John Fogerty, the band’s frontman and creative force, the song captures the zeitgeist of the era perfectly. It speaks to the disillusionment and frustration felt by many Americans, who are tired of the war, tired of the political rhetoric, tired of the endless rain of negativity.
Fogerty’s lyrics are simple yet powerful. They paint a vivid picture of a world gone awry, where “good men through the ages” have tried and failed to bring about change. The song’s chorus, with its plaintive question, “Who’ll stop the rain?”, resonates deeply with the audience. It’s a question that everyone is asking, but no one seems to have an answer to.
The live performance of “Who’ll Stop The Rain” at the Oakland Coliseum is particularly electrifying. The band is in top form, their musicianship tight and their energy infectious. Fogerty’s vocals are raw and emotive, conveying the full weight of the song’s message. The crowd sings along, their voices blending with the music to create a powerful moment of shared experience.
This recording captures that moment in all its glory. It’s a reminder of a time when music was more than just entertainment; it was a force for social change. It’s a testament to the enduring power of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s music, and to the timeless message of “Who’ll Stop The Rain”.
Even today, decades after it was first performed, the song continues to speak to us. It reminds us that the struggles we face today are not new; they are part of a long and ongoing human story. It encourages us to keep fighting for a better world, even when the rain seems endless. And it reminds us that, even in the darkest of times, there is always hope.