The seemingly innocent performance of John Fogerty’s classic tune, “Fortunate Son,” at the Concert For Valor on Veteran’s Day in Washington D.C. has spurned some backlash from the easily-offended, and Fogerty is having none of that.
In the height of a Vietnam War-torn America, Fogerty penned the anti-war rocker “Fortunate Son.” The song has come to represent more than an anti-war sentiment, as its catchy guitar riff with Fogerty’s iconic vocals have become downright American. It’s more about being proud of a working-class American lifestyle than it is about war itself.
Still, when Bruce Springsteen, Zac Brown, and Dave Grohl decided to tackle the tune at the Concert For Valor, some were upset. How could they play an anti-war song at a concert for troops? It’s a reasonable argument, at the surface. However, the Vietnam War was 45 years ago, and our military circumstances are vastly different now than they were then.
Here’s Fogerty’s take on the situation:
“Fortunate Son” is a song I wrote during the Vietnam War over forty-five years ago. As an American and a songwriter I am proud that the song still has resonance. I do believe that its meaning gets misinterpreted and even usurped by various factions wishing to make their own case. At its core I believe the issue is really about what a great country we have that a song like this can be performed in a setting like Concert For Valor.
Years ago, an ultra conservative administration tried to paint anyone who questioned its policies as “un-American”. That same administration shamefully ignored and mistreated the soldiers returning from Vietnam.
As a man who was drafted and served his country during those times, I have ultimate respect for the men and women who protect us today and demand that they receive the respect that they deserve.”
Fogerty’s points are valid – 1969 and 2014 are very distinct points in time. The song is fun, and it’s something of an American anthem. Plus, if musicians aren’t allowed to push the boundaries when they perform, then really, where’s the excitement?
What do you think — were Springsteen and co. over the line when they performed “Fortunate Son?”
[Via Consequence of Sound]