About the song
Creedence Clearwater Revival, a band synonymous with the late 1960s and early 1970s rock music scene, delivered a powerful and enduring anthem with “The Midnight Special.” This iconic track, released in 1968 on their debut album, Creedence Clearwater Revival, captures the essence of American roots music while infusing it with a raw energy that resonated with audiences of all ages.
“The Midnight Special” is a soulful blues-rock number that draws inspiration from the traditional folk song of the same name. The original version, often associated with railroad workers, depicted the hardships and loneliness of life on the road. Creedence, however, reimagines the song as a celebration of camaraderie and resilience.
The band’s signature sound, characterized by John Fogerty’s gritty vocals, Tom Fogerty’s lead guitar, Stu Cook’s steady basslines, and Doug Clifford’s driving drums, is on full display in “The Midnight Special.” The opening guitar riff, a simple yet memorable melody, sets the stage for the energetic and infectious chorus. Fogerty’s vocals, filled with emotion and conviction, convey a sense of longing and hope.
The lyrics of the song explore themes of friendship, perseverance, and the American dream. The refrain, “Well, I’m goin’ to ride that midnight special, goin’ to ride it one more time,” symbolizes a search for adventure and a desire to escape the mundane. The song’s message of unity and resilience struck a chord with listeners during a time of social and political unrest.
“The Midnight Special” remains a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its infectious melody, powerful vocals, and timeless themes. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s masterful interpretation of this traditional folk song elevated it to new heights, solidifying their status as one of the most influential rock bands of their era.
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Lyrics
Well, you wake up in the mornin’
You hear the work bell ring
And they march you to the table
You see the same old thing
Ain’t no food upon the table
And no pork up in the pan
But you better not complain, boy
You get in trouble with the man
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a ever lovin’ light on me
Yonder come Miss Rosie
How in the world did you know?
By the way she wears her apron
And the clothes she wore
Umbrella on her shoulder
Piece of paper in her hand
She come to see the gov’nor
She want to free her man, oh
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a ever lovin’ light on me
If you’re ever in Houston
Well, you better do right
You better not gamble
There, you better not fight, at all
Or the sheriff will grab ya
And the boys will bring you down
The next thing you know, boy
Whoa, you’re prison bound
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a ever lovin’ light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a light on me
Let the Midnight Special shine a ever lovin’ light on me