Besides being known for being one of the most influential guitarists and songwriters of all time, Keith Richards is also quite sincere and always gave his real opinion on other bands and artists. Even when he didn’t like a particular band or musician he told that in interviews and explained why.
In the 60s, like the Rolling Stones, many other incredible bands started and one of them was Creedence Clearwater Revival, formed in California. But what was the opinion of the British guitarist on them back in the 60s?
Keith Richards’ opinion on Creedence Clearwater Revival
CCR had many different names until they finally chose the name Creedence Clearwater Revival in 1967. The band was formed by John Fogerty (Vocals and guitar), Tom Fogerty (Guitar), Stu Cook (Bass) and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford (Drums) and had a short career. They released only seven studio albums, six as a four-piece band and one as a trio, since Tom left the group before the final record “Mardi Gras” (1972).
In 1969, Keith Richards talked with Rolling Stone magazine about many bands of that era and one of them was CCR. About them he said: “Yeah, I’m into a very weird thing with that band. When I first heard them, I was really knocked out, but I became bored with them very quickly. After a few times, it started to annoy me. They’re so basic and simple that maybe it’s a little too much,” Keith Richards said.
Creendence’s bassist Stu Cook auditioned for the Rolling Stones in the 90s
The Rolling Stones bassist Bill Wyman was a member of the band from 1962 until 1993 when he decided to leave the band. To continue the band auditioned a few bass players and one of them curiously was the CCR bassist Stu Cook.
He told that interesting story when he was asked by Hit Channel 2011 about which artists he would like to play with. “No, I don’t want to play with Robbie Robertson. He’s one of the guys I don’t want to play with. I would like to play with players like Ringo Starr (The Beatles).”
“I got to play with Charlie Watts, Keith Richards and Mick Jagger (Rolling Stones). (Because) I was one of the bass players they auditioned by the Stones when Bill Wyman retired. I got to play with them about two hours in New York City one day,” Stu Cook said.
The British band ended up choosing the American bass player Darryl Jones. He had previously worked with names like Sting, Miles Davis and Eric Clapton. He has been a touring and recording member of the band since 1994.
Creedence Clearwater Revival came to an end in 1972. John Fogerty was the one who had the most successful solo career. His brother, who had already left the band, recorded many solo records and passed away in 1990 at the age of 41.
Stu Cook and Doug “Cosmo” Clifford also worked on other projects and solo records. But they formed in 1995 Creedence Clearwater Revisited, a spin-off band. They toured around the world playing material from the band’s classic albums.