The Meaning Behind The Song: Wrote a Song for Everyone by Creedence Clearwater Revival
Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) has a timeless rock ’n’ roll sound that still resonates today. Their classic song, “Wrote a Song for Everyone,” was released in 1969 and is one of their most beloved tracks. But what inspired the song? And what is the meaning behind it? Let’s dive into the history and lyrics to discover the story behind this amazing tune.
History of “Wrote a Song for Everyone”
“Wrote a Song for Everyone” was written by John Fogerty, the lead singer and primary songwriter of Creedence Clearwater Revival. It was released on their album “Green River” in 1969. The song did not become a hit at the time of its release, but it has since become one of CCR’s most famous songs.
The Lyrics of “Wrote a Song for Everyone”
The lyrics of “Wrote a Song for Everyone” convey a strong message about the importance of music as a unifying force. The song speaks to the idea that everyone has a story to tell, and that music has the power to connect us all. Here are the lyrics:
“Met myself a comin’ county welfare line
I was feelin’ strung out, Hung out on the line
Saw myself a goin’, down to war in June
All I want, All I want is to write myself a tune
Wrote a song for everyone, Wrote a song for truth
Wrote a song for everyone, When I couldn’t even talk to you
Got myself arrested, Wound me up in jail
Richmond ’bout to blow up, Communication failed
If you see the answer, now’s the time to be
If you’ve got a reason, now’s the time to see
Wrote a song for everyone, Wrote a song for truth
Wrote a song for everyone, When I couldn’t even talk to you
I climbed a mountain, and I turned around
And I saw my reflection, In the snow covered hills
Till the landslide brought me down”
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The lyrics of “Wrote a Song for Everyone” explore various themes such as political and social unrest, communication breakdown, unity, and hope. The first verse tells the story of a man who is struggling to survive and find his place in the world. He turns to music as a way to express himself and reach out to others.
The second verse speaks to the political and social turmoil of the time. The protagonist finds himself in jail and witnesses the impending explosion of Richmond, Virginia. He urges people to come together and find solutions to their problems.
The chorus sums up the main message of the song. The songwriter has written a song for everyone, a song that speaks the truth, and speaks to the soul. It is a song that reaches out to those who are struggling and offers a glimmer of hope.
The final verse is more introspective. The songwriter climbs a mountain and sees his own reflection in the snow-covered hills. The landslide that brings him down can be seen as a metaphor for the struggles and setbacks that we all face in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who wrote “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
John Fogerty, the lead singer and primary songwriter of Creedence Clearwater Revival, wrote “Wrote A Song For Everyone”.
2. What is the message of “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
The message of “Wrote A Song For Everyone” is about the power of music to connect people and bring them together during difficult times.
3. Why did “Wrote A Song For Everyone” become so popular?
“Wrote A Song For Everyone” became popular because of its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and timeless message.
4. What inspired John Fogerty to write “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
John Fogerty was inspired to write “Wrote A Song For Everyone” by the political and social upheaval of the time, as well as his own desire to express himself through music.
5. What does the line “Met myself a comin’ county welfare line” mean?
The line “Met myself a comin’ county welfare line” refers to the protagonist’s struggle to survive and make ends meet.
6. What does the line “If you see the answer, now’s the time to be” mean?
The line “If you see the answer, now’s the time to be” encourages people to come together and find solutions to their problems.
7. What does the line “I climbed a mountain, and I turned around / And I saw my reflection, In the snow covered hills / Till the landslide brought me down” mean?
The final verse is more introspective. The songwriter climbs a mountain and sees his own reflection in the snow-covered hills. The landslide that brings him down can be seen as a metaphor for the struggles and setbacks that we all face in life.
8. What impact did “Wrote A Song For Everyone” have on the music industry?
“Wrote A Song For Everyone” helped establish Creedence Clearwater Revival as one of the most important and influential bands of the era.
9. Were there any covers or remixes of “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
Yes, there have been several covers of “Wrote A Song For Everyone” over the years, including versions by The Band, Ike and Tina Turner, and Joan Baez.
10. Was there a music video for “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
No, there was no music video for “Wrote A Song For Everyone” as music videos were not yet a popular medium at the time of its release.
11. What other songs did Creedence Clearwater Revival write?
Creedence Clearwater Revival wrote many classic songs, including “Fortunate Son,” “Proud Mary,” and “Have You Ever Seen The Rain?”
12. What is the legacy of “Wrote A Song For Everyone”?
“Wrote A Song For Everyone” remains a beloved and influential song, and serves as a reminder of the power of music to bring people together and inspire change.
