About the song
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” is a classic rock song that embodies the band’s signature sound and lyrical depth. Written by the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, John Fogerty, the song was released in 1969 as part of their album “Green River.”
“Bad Moon Rising” is characterized by its infectious guitar riff, energetic tempo, and prophetic lyrics that evoke a sense of foreboding and unease. The song’s verses warn of impending doom and the arrival of troubling times, reflected in the iconic chorus that declares, “Don’t go around tonight, well, it’s bound to take your life, there’s a bad moon on the rise.”
Upon its release, “Bad Moon Rising” soared to number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States, cementing Creedence Clearwater Revival’s reputation as one of the premier rock bands of the late 1960s and early 1970s. Its success extended globally, charting well in other countries and becoming a staple on classic rock radio stations worldwide.
The song’s enduring popularity is underscored by its inclusion in numerous films, television shows, and commercials over the decades. Its evocative lyrics and memorable melody continue to resonate with listeners, transcending generations and maintaining relevance in popular culture.
Creedence Clearwater Revival’s “Bad Moon Rising” remains a cornerstone of their discography, celebrated for its powerful blend of rock, folk, and blues influences. Its ominous yet catchy nature encapsulates the band’s ability to craft songs that are both musically engaging and thematically rich, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in rock music history.
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Lyrics
I see the bad moon a-risin’
I see trouble on the way
I see earthquakes and lightnin’
I see bad times today
Don’t go around tonight
Well it’s bound to take your life
There’s a bad moon on the rise
I hear hurricanes a-blowin’
I know the end is comin’ soon
I fear rivers over flowin’
I hear the voice of rage and ruin
Don’t go around tonight
Well it’s bound to take your life
There’s a bad moon on the rise, alright
Hope you got your things together
Hope you are quite prepared to die
Looks like we’re in for nasty weather
One eye is taken for an eye
Well don’t go around tonight
Well it’s bound to take your life
There’s a bad moon on the rise
Don’t come around tonight
Well it’s bound to take your life
There’s a bad moon on the rise