About The Song
In the realm of American music, few names resonate with the same enduring power as Conway Twitty. A true country music icon, Twitty’s rich baritone and heartfelt delivery captivated audiences for decades, earning him a place among the Grand Ole Opry’s most celebrated members. Yet, Twitty’s musical prowess extended far beyond the boundaries of country, as he fearlessly embraced other genres, leaving an indelible mark on the tapestry of popular music. One such foray saw him deliver a masterful rendition of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s iconic rock anthem, “Proud Mary”, imbuing it with a soulful depth that transformed it into a country classic in its own right.
Released in 1969, “Proud Mary” was an instant sensation for Creedence Clearwater Revival, showcasing their signature blend of swamp rock and psychedelic sensibilities. The song’s infectious energy, driven by John Fogerty’s impassioned vocals and the band’s tight instrumentation, propelled it to the top of the charts, cementing its status as a rock and roll anthem. However, the song’s appeal transcended genre boundaries, captivating the attention of country music artists who recognized its potential for a fresh interpretation.
Enter Conway Twitty, a man whose musical versatility knew no bounds. In 1971, Twitty released his version of “Proud Mary”, and the country music world took notice. Stripped of its rock and roll grit, Twitty’s rendition exuded a smooth, soulful elegance that resonated with country audiences. His rich baritone, infused with both power and tenderness, breathed new life into the lyrics, painting vivid stories of life on the river and the unwavering spirit of the song’s protagonist.
Twitty’s masterful interpretation of “Proud Mary” showcased his ability to seamlessly blend genres, demonstrating his deep understanding of the power of music to transcend boundaries. His version became a staple of his live performances, and his studio recording climbed to number three on the Billboard country charts, solidifying its place as a country music classic.
Twitty’s legacy extends far beyond his chart-topping hits and numerous accolades. He was a true pioneer, a man who fearlessly pushed the boundaries of country music, embracing new sounds and styles without compromising his signature identity. His rendition of “Proud Mary” stands as a testament to his artistry, a shining example of his ability to transform a rock and roll anthem into a country masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of American music.
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Lyric
Left a good job in the city a workin’ for the man every night and dayAnd I never lost a minute of sleepWhile worryin’ bout the way things might have beenThe big wheels keep on turnin’ Proud Mary keeps on burnin’Rollin’ rollin’ rollin’ on the riverCleaned a lot of plates in Memphis copped a lot of cane down in New OrleansBut I never saw the good side of the city till I hitched a ride on a river boat queenThe big wheels keep on turnin’…[ guitar – steel ]If you come down to the river I bet you gonna find the people who liveYou don’t have to worry if you have no money people on the river are happy to giveThe big wheels keep on turnin’…Rollin’ rollin’ rollin’ on the river rollin’ rollin’ rollin’ on the river