John Fogerty Mocks Trump’s Use of ‘Fortunate Son’ at Political Events

John Fogerty, the legendary voice behind Creedence Clearwater Revival, has frequently discussed the meaning behind “Fortunate Son,” his 1969 protest anthem. In a recent interview with Vulture, he reaffirmed that the track remains one of his most misinterpreted songs—particularly by conservative politicians.

When asked which of his songs is most frequently misunderstood, Fogerty pointed to “Fortunate Son,” saying it is often misread by “people who seem to be conservative, right-wing, and probably Republican—or belong to some other ‘ism’ in that category. Most notably, by Mr. Trump.”

The song, written during the Vietnam War era, critiques the social inequality that allowed privileged Americans to avoid military service. Fogerty, a veteran himself, said the song was his way of condemning the divide between those with political and financial power and those who had no choice but to serve.

Legal Action and Continued Use

In 2020, Fogerty issued a cease-and-desist letter to then-President Donald Trump, requesting that his campaign stop using “Fortunate Son” at rallies and other political events. At the time, Fogerty explained on social media, “He is using my words and my voice to portray a message that I do not endorse.”

He continued, “I wrote this song because, as a veteran, I was disgusted that some people were allowed to avoid serving our country due to their political connections and financial privilege. I also wrote about wealthy individuals not paying their fair share of taxes. Mr. Trump is a prime example of both issues.”

Despite the legal notice, the song was once again played during a Trump military parade in Washington, D.C., as recently as June of this year.

“It Ain’t Me”: Fogerty on the Song’s Misuse

According to Fogerty, the misinterpretation of “Fortunate Son” is nothing new. Many listeners, he said, mistake it for a patriotic anthem.

“It’s happened before, where people thought it was a patriotic ditty—something to wave the flag to—without understanding the cynicism and defiance in the song,” he told Vulture. “Even if you don’t hear the rest of it, you should at least catch the line, ‘It ain’t me, I ain’t no fortunate son.’”

Reflecting on Trump’s continued use of the song, Fogerty added, “I can’t imagine using that song as a political rallying theme—especially when you appear to be the very person I was writing about. It’s hilarious to me.”