Cotton Fields by Creedence Clearwater Revival / lyrics / Chords / Karaoke

"Cotton Fields" is a song originally written by blues musician Huddie "Lead Belly" Ledbetter, but it gained significant popularity when it was covered by the American rock band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). The song was included on their 1969 album "Willy and the Poor Boys."

The song's lyrics describe the life of a farm laborer working in the cotton fields of the southern United States. The singer reflects on the difficult and labor-intensive work of picking cotton under the hot sun. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for a better life, far away from the demanding and seemingly endless toil in the cotton fields.

The song is often associated with the themes of hardship, poverty, and the longing for a brighter future. CCR's version of "Cotton Fields" is known for its catchy, upbeat musical arrangement and John Fogerty's distinctive, raspy vocals, which added a rock and roll twist to the traditional folk song. It's a classic example of how CCR blended elements of rock, folk, and blues to create their unique sound.

"Cotton Fields" by Creedence Clearwater Revival:

Musical Style: CCR's rendition of "Cotton Fields" retains a lot of the original folk and blues elements from Lead Belly's version but gives it a distinctive rock and roll twist. The band's signature guitar riffs and John Fogerty's powerful vocals make this traditional song feel more energetic and contemporary.

Historical Context: The song captures a sense of the American South during a time when agriculture, particularly cotton farming, was a significant part of the region's economy. The song's lyrics depict the harsh and grueling conditions endured by many farmworkers, often African Americans, in the southern cotton fields during the early 20th century.

Longing for a Better Life: The lyrics express a longing for a life away from the backbreaking work in the cotton fields, where the laborers toil from morning till night. The singer dreams of going home to a place where life is more comfortable and peaceful.

Cover Song: It's important to note that "Cotton Fields" is a cover of Lead Belly's traditional song, and CCR's interpretation brought it to a wider audience. Creedence Clearwater Revival was known for their skill in taking traditional and folk songs and giving them a rock and roll makeover.

Album Inclusion: The song was featured on CCR's "Willy and the Poor Boys" album, which was released in 1969. This album was notable for its focus on working-class themes and a more stripped-down, rootsy sound compared to some of their earlier work.

"Cotton Fields" remains one of CCR's popular songs and is often associated with the band's distinctive style and their ability to reinterpret and infuse new life into traditional songs. It's a testament to the band's talent for blending various musical genres and creating a timeless sound that still resonates with listeners today.