About The Song
Creedence Clearwater Revival is a name that evokes images of raw, energetic rock and roll. Formed in the late 1960s, the band quickly became one of the most influential acts of their generation. Among their many hits, “Fortunate Son” stands out as a powerful anthem that continues to resonate with listeners today. Released in 1969 as part of the album “Willy and the Poor Boys”, this song is a scathing critique of the Vietnam War and social inequality.
“Fortunate Son” is more than just a protest song; it’s a timeless piece of Americana. The lyrics, penned by John Fogerty, paint a vivid picture of a society divided by class and privilege. The song’s opening lines, “Some folks are born made to wave the flag / Ooh, they’re red, white and blue”, immediately set the stage for a critique of those who benefit from war without experiencing its hardships. The chorus, “It ain’t me, it ain’t me, I ain’t no millionaire’s son, no”, is a defiant rejection of the privileged class and a rallying cry for those who have been left behind.
Musically, “Fortunate Son” is a driving rock track that perfectly complements the lyrics. The song’s driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs create a sense of urgency and rebellion. The band’s tight harmonies and Fogerty’s gritty vocals add to the song’s raw energy. The music video, released in 2019 to celebrate the song’s 50th anniversary, features footage of Vietnam War protests and soldiers, further emphasizing the song’s anti-war message.
“Fortunate Son” has had a profound impact on popular culture and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song’s anti-war message and working-class perspective have made it a staple of the rock and roll canon. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone.
One of the reasons why “Fortunate Son” continues to resonate with listeners today is its timeless message. While the song was written in response to a specific historical event, its themes of social inequality and the consequences of war are still relevant. The song’s powerful lyrics and catchy melody have ensured that it will continue to be enjoyed by generations to come.
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Lyrics
Some folks are born made to wave the flagHoo, they’re red, white and blueAnd when the band plays “Hail to the chief”Ooh, they point the cannon at you, LordIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no senator’s son, sonIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no furtunate one, noSome folks are born silver spoon in handLord, don’t they help themselves, Lord?But when the taxman come to the doorLord, the house lookin’ like a rummage sale, yeahIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no millionaire’s son, no, noIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no fortunate one, noYeah-yeah, some folks inherit star-spangled eyesHoo, they send you down to war, LordAnd when you ask ’em, “How much should we give?”Hoo, they only answer, “More, more, more, more”It ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no military son, son, LordIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no fortunate one, oneIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no fortunate one, no, no, noIt ain’t me, it ain’t meI ain’t no fortunate son, no, no, noIt ain’t me, it ain’t me…