Creedence Clearwater Revival

Creedence Clearwater Revival seemed like something of an anomaly in the psychedelic 1960s. Far removed from the mind-expanding, flower-power explorations of their California contemporaries, they were a gritty, hard-hitting band respectful of their blues, country, and rock & roll roots. John Fogerty's cutting, raspy voice bore echoes of Howlin' Wolf and Little Richard as he delivered lyrics that alternately celebrated and bemoaned a working man's life. In a rare instance of art and commerce coinciding, CCR's stream of hit singles made them one of the most successful '60s rock bands. The band broke up acrimoniously in the early '70s, but Fogerty went on to a successful (if sporadic) solo career.

• rock