Introduction
Fueled by a restless spirit and a dash of last-minute inspiration, Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Up Around the Bend” emerged as a rock and roll anthem for those seeking escape. Written by frontman John Fogerty just days before the band’s 1970 European tour, the song became a staple of their live performances and a hit single.
Released in 1970 on the album Cosmo’s Factory, “Up Around the Bend” captured a youthful urgency. The driving rhythm section, punctuated by Doug Clifford’s drums, propels the song forward, mirroring the lyrical image of the narrator racing “just as fast as my feet can fly.” Fogerty’s characteristic vocals snarl with a yearning for freedom, beckoning listeners to “come away, come away” and leave behind a situation that feels like a “sinking ship.”
While the specifics remain open to interpretation, the song’s energy resonates with anyone who’s ever felt the need to break free from a stifling situation. Whether it’s a dead-end job, a stifling relationship, or simply the desire for a fresh start, “Up Around the Bend” offers a sonic escape route.
The song wasn’t just a studio creation – it thrived in the live setting. Creedence Clearwater Revival’s electrifying performances often extended “Up Around the Bend” into a jam session, showcasing the band’s instrumental prowess and Fogerty’s scorching guitar work.
“Up Around the Bend” became a double-sided A-side single with “Run Through the Jungle,” reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to capture that primal urge to break free and chase something better, a sentiment that continues to resonate with listeners across generations.