About the Song
I Heard It Through the Grapevine is a song written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for Motown Records in 1967. It was first recorded by The Miracles, but it became a much bigger hit when it was released by Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) in 1970. CCR’s version of the song topped the charts in the United States and Canada, and it has since become one of the most popular and enduring songs of all time.
The song is a classic example of soul music, with its catchy melody, funky rhythms, and soulful vocals. The lyrics tell the story of a man who hears through the grapevine that his lover is cheating on him. He is devastated by the news, but he tries to maintain his composure as he sings about his pain.
The song’s universal themes of love, betrayal, and heartbreak have resonated with listeners for generations. It has been covered by countless artists, including Gladys Knight & the Pips, Marvin Gaye, and The Grateful Dead. It has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, such as “The Big Chill,” “Pulp Fiction,” and “The Sopranos.”
Creedence Clearwater Revival was an American rock band that formed in El Cerrito, California, in 1967. The band consisted of lead vocalist and guitarist John Fogerty, rhythm guitarist Tom Fogerty, bassist Stu Cook, and drummer Doug Clifford. CCR released seven studio albums in the span of four years, and they quickly became one of the most popular and successful bands in the world.
The band’s sound was characterized by John Fogerty’s distinctive vocals and guitar playing, as well as the band’s tight harmonies. CCR’s songs often dealt with themes of social and political injustice, as well as the joys and sorrows of everyday life.
CCR disbanded in 1972, but their music continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, and their album “Chronicle, Vol. 1” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2004.
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages. It is a song about love, betrayal, and heartbreak, but it is also a song about hope and resilience. The song’s message is that even when we are faced with pain and disappointment, we can still find the strength to carry on.
Some interesting facts about the song:
- The song was originally written for The Temptations, but they turned it down.
- CCR’s version of the song was recorded in one take.
- The song has been covered by over 300 artists.
- It is the most played song on jukeboxes in the world.
- It was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999.
I hope you enjoyed this introduction to “I Heard It Through the Grapevine.” If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask.