Questions and Answers
Who wrote the song Fortunate Son?
Creedence Clearwater Revival
What year did Creedence Clearwater Revival release Fortunate Son?
1969
In 2014, the song Fortunate Son was added to what registry?
The National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress
What does the song Fortunate Son criticize?
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During what war was the song Fortunate Son released?
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Who also wrote the song Fortunate Son?
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Complete this passage: Some folks are born, made to wave the flag Ooo, they're red, white and blue And when the band plays '..................'
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What is the speaker complaining of when he says, 'It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no fortunate one, no...'
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What other song does the line 'Some folks inherit star spangled eyes' refer to in the song 'Fortunate Son'?
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According to the singer, if you ask those who support military action without bearing the cost, 'How much should we give?', what is their answer?
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Explain the line - 'Some folks are born, made to wave the flag Ooo, they're red, white and blue And when the band plays 'Hail to the Chief' Ooo, they point the cannon at you, Lord'
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Which album was the song 'Fortunate Son' released on?
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In September 1969, 'Fortunate Son' was released as a single with what other song?
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Rolling Stone placed what song at #99 on its '500 Greatest Songs of All Time' list?
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Which band's name is often abbreviated to the initials 'CCR'?
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Who is the lead singer of CCR?
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'Some folks are born, silver spoon in hand Lord, don't they help themselves, y'all But when the taxman comes to the door,' what does the house look like?
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Study Notes
Song Overview
- Title: Fortunate Son
- Artist: Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR)
- Songwriter: John Fogerty
- Release Year: 1969
- Album: Willy and the Poor Boys
Cultural Significance
- Added to the National Recording Registry (2014) for cultural, historical, or aesthetic significance.
- Ranked at #99 on Rolling Stone's "500 Greatest Songs of All Time."
Themes and Critique
- Critiques militant patriotism and the disconnect between wealth and military service.
- The speaker emphasizes the unfair burden of war on those without political power or wealth.
Context of Release
- Released during the Vietnam War, reflecting societal tensions regarding patriotism and the military draft.
Notable Lyrics and Analysis
- "Some folks are born, made to wave the flag”— Critique of exaggerated patriotism among the elite, who avoid personal sacrifice.
- "It ain't me, it ain't me, I ain't no fortunate one, no”— Expresses sentiment of the common person feeling the weight of war.
- "Hail to the Chief"— Indicates the irony of patriotic displays contrasted with the dire consequences for others.
- Comparison to "The Star Spangled Banner"— The line "Some folks inherit star-spangled eyes" ties the concept of inherited privilege to national pride.
Related Releases
- Released as a single: September 1969, accompanied by "Down on the Corner."
Final Remarks
- John Fogerty serves as the band's lead vocalist, capturing the essence of his critique through poignant lyrics and powerful melodies.
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Description
Test your knowledge about the iconic song 'Fortunate Son' by Creedence Clearwater Revival. This set of flashcards covers the song's history, its release, and its significance. Perfect for music enthusiasts and students alike.
