About the Song
Creedence Clearwater Revival, or CCR, a band that etched an indelible mark on the landscape of American rock, delivered a sound that was both primal and profound. With John Fogerty‘s distinctive vocals and guitar work, they created music that resonated deeply with the spirit of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Released in 1970, on their album “Pendulum”, Pagan Baby is a prime example of their raw energy.
Pagan Baby opens “Pendulum”, and sets the tone for a slightly more experimental album for the band. The song itself is a driving, blues-rock number, with a powerful, almost hypnotic rhythm. John Fogerty‘s guitar work is particularly noteworthy, with its sharp, biting tone and its driving, relentless energy. The song is long, over 6 minutes, and allows for the band to stretch out, and really explore the groove.
Lyrically, Pagan Baby is somewhat ambiguous, and open to interpretation. It has been said that the title “Pagan Baby” came from John Fogerty‘s childhood memories of attending Catholic school. Where the children would have collections for “pagan babies”. Fogerty then used the phrase, and turned it into a rock and roll song. The song is a powerful, and driving track that showcases the band’s musical prowess.
What makes Pagan Baby so compelling is its sheer intensity. It’s a song that grabs you by the collar and doesn’t let go. The rhythm section, with Stu Cook on bass and Doug Clifford on drums, provides a solid foundation for Fogerty‘s guitar and vocals. The result is a sound that is both powerful and hypnotic.
Creedence Clearwater Revival‘s music, and Pagan Baby in particular, has a timeless quality. It’s the kind of music that sounds just as fresh today as it did when it was first released. The band’s ability to blend blues, rock, and country influences into a unique and powerful sound is a testament to their enduring legacy.
In essence, Pagan Baby is a testament to Creedence Clearwater Revival‘s raw power and musical prowess. It’s a song that captures the spirit of a bygone era while remaining relevant and compelling to this day. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of rock and roll.