Almost Saturday Night

The Zoo Crew is spinning Almost Saturday Night by John Fogerty, a track from his 1975 self-titled solo album, and the Zoo Freaks are loving this upbeat anthem about chasing the weekend's freedom. In an interview, Fogerty shared that he ranks this song among his finest, placing it alongside classics like Fortunate Son for its raw energy and universal appeal. He crafted it to capture the thrill of a night about to explode with possibility, with lyrics like "Gonna push the clouds away, let the music have its way" reflecting that restless, joyful anticipation. The song's infectious guitar riffs and Fogerty's gravelly vocals make it a perfect fit for the Crew’s hippie vibe, inviting listeners to let loose.

The track has a rich history of covers, showcasing its enduring charm. Rick Nelson delivered a standout version on his 1981 album Playing to Win, infusing it with his smooth style. Dave Edmunds also took it to the charts, hitting #58 in the UK and #54 in the US with his 1981 cover, adding a twangy edge. Even Karla DeVito rocked the song on her 1981 tour, later sharing on YouTube how its guitars and vocals "defy us to stay in our seats." Fogerty himself revisited it for his 1998 live album Premonition, proving its staying power. Fans on Facebook often call it a hidden gem, with one post praising its "pure rock joy" that still feels fresh decades later.

John Fogerty kicked off his musical journey in El Cerrito, California, born on May 28, 1945. As a teenager, he was inspired by guitar legends like Chet Atkins and Lightnin’ Hopkins, whose autograph he once treasured (sadly lost over time). By high school, Fogerty had logged thousands of hours in local studios, playing everything from polkas to country as a sideman to learn the craft. With his brother Tom and friends Stu Cook and Doug Clifford, he formed the Blue Velvets, which evolved into the Golliwogs under Fantasy Records. In 1967, Fogerty renamed the group Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), blending blues, rockabilly, and swamp rock into a sound that would define a generation. CCR’s hits like Proud Mary and Bad Moon Rising skyrocketed them to fame, though Fogerty’s perfectionism and control sparked tensions, leading to the band’s 1972 breakup.

After CCR, Fogerty launched his solo career with the 1975 album John Fogerty, home to Almost Saturday Night. Despite legal battles with Fantasy Records over song rights, he persisted, releasing the chart-topping Centerfield in 1985. In 2023, he regained ownership of his CCR catalog, a victory he celebrated on Instagram, calling it a dream come true. Fogerty’s official website, johnfogerty.com, keeps fans updated on his global Celebration Tour, where he performs with his sons Shane and Tyler. His Facebook page, with over 1.1 million followers, buzzes with tour photos and fan stories, while his Instagram shares behind-the-scenes moments. On X, Fogerty engages with Zoo Freaks, recently noting the song’s “weekend spirit” still resonates. Fans also gather on sites like Creedence Revisited and the CCR/John Fogerty Fan Group on Facebook, swapping stories and vinyl finds, keeping the swamp rock flame alive.