About the song
“Fortunate Son” by Creedence Clearwater Revival stands as a poignant anthem that resonated deeply during the turbulent era of the Vietnam War. Released in October 1969 on the album *Willy and the Poor Boys*, the song quickly became a rallying cry for the anti-war movement in the United States. Its lyrics, penned by John Fogerty, articulate a sharp critique of societal inequality, particularly focusing on how the privileged often evade the hardships borne by the less affluent.
The song’s genesis lies in Fogerty’s personal reflections on the injustices of his time, where he saw sons of influential figures avoiding military service while others were conscripted. This theme of class disparity struck a chord with audiences, making “Fortunate Son” not just a musical piece but a cultural touchstone that voiced widespread discontent.
Upon its release, “Fortunate Son” ascended the charts, reaching number 3 in the United States and earning critical acclaim that endures to this day. It was recognized with the RIAA Gold Disc award and has been immortalized in various “greatest songs” lists by publications like Pitchfork Media and Rolling Stone.
Beyond its commercial success, the song’s impact reverberated through popular culture, cementing its place in films, television, and even video games that depict or reference the Vietnam War era. Its inclusion in *Forrest Gump*, *Battleship*, and *The Manchurian Candidate* among others underscores its enduring relevance and cultural significance.
Fogerty himself, reflecting on the song’s enduring legacy, has emphasized its role as a voice against both war and inequality. Its continued relevance is evident in its adoption by subsequent generations for various causes and its power to provoke thought and inspire action.
In conclusion, “Fortunate Son” remains more than just a rock classic; it stands as a testament to the power of music to encapsulate societal issues and ignite movements for change. Its timeless message continues to resonate, ensuring its place in the annals of musical and cultural history.
Video
Lyrics
Some folks are born made to wave the flag
Hoo, they’re red, white and blue
And when the band plays “Hail to the chief”
Ooh, they point the cannon at you, Lord
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no senator’s son, son
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no furtunate one, no
Some folks are born silver spoon in hand
Lord, don’t they help themselves, Lord?
But when the taxman come to the door
Lord, the house lookin’ like a rummage sale, yeah
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no millionaire’s son, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, no
Yeah-yeah, some folks inherit star-spangled eyes
Hoo, they send you down to war, Lord
And when you ask ’em, “How much should we give?”
Hoo, they only answer, “More, more, more, more”
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no military son, son, Lord
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, one
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate one, no, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me
I ain’t no fortunate son, no, no, no
It ain’t me, it ain’t me…