About the song
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s rendition of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a quintessential example of the band’s unique ability to infuse classic soul and R&B into their distinctive rock and roll sound. Originally penned by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, the song first gained fame through Marvin Gaye’s version in 1968. However, CCR’s 1970 cover introduced a new dimension to the track, blending the original’s emotive depth with their signature swamp rock style.
Released on their album “Cosmo’s Factory,” CCR’s take on “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” showcases John Fogerty’s powerful vocals, which effortlessly convey the anguish and betrayal inherent in the song’s lyrics. The band’s version is marked by its driving rhythm, gritty guitar riffs, and a compelling groove that captures the essence of their southern rock influence. The arrangement is both stripped-down and dynamic, providing a fresh perspective on the classic hit while staying true to its roots.
The song’s narrative, revolving around the pain of discovering infidelity through rumors, resonates universally, and CCR’s interpretation highlights the raw emotional power of the original. This version stands out not only for its musical innovation but also for how it exemplifies the band’s ability to reinterpret and reinvigorate existing classics. Through this cover, Creedence Clearwater Revival not only pays homage to the soul tradition but also cements their place in the rock canon as innovators who could seamlessly bridge genres. The track remains a testament to CCR’s versatility and their knack for making well-trodden paths feel new and exciting.
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Lyrics
Ooh, bet you’re wonderin’ how I knew
‘Bout your plan to make me blue
With some other guy that you knew before
Between the two of us guys
You know I loved you more
It took me by surprise, I must say
When I found out yesterday
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
You know that a man ain’t supposed to cry
But these tears, I can’t hold inside
Losin’ you would end my life, you see
‘Cause you mean that much to me
You could have told me yourself
That you found someone else, instead
I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
People say, “You hear from what you see
Not, not, not from what you hear”
I can’t help but being confused
If it’s true, won’t you tell me, dear?
Do you plan to let me go
For the other guy that you knew before?
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
Not much longer would you be mine
Ooh-ooh, I heard it through the grapevine
And I’m just about to lose my mind
Honey, honey, yeah