John Fogerty Celebrates Legacy at MGM Music Hall Concert

BOSTON, Mass. — John Fogerty brought the spirit of classic rock to the MGM Music Hall at Fenway on Friday, capping off his “Celebration Tour” with a homage to his legendary band, Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). After years of legal battles over his music rights, the 80-year-old rocker returned to performing hits like “Born on the Bayou” and “Down on the Corner,” songs he had long avoided.

As Fogerty stepped onto the stage, a stagehand followed with a table adorned with a champagne flute and a bottle of bubbly, reinforcing the celebratory mood. Fogerty announced to the audience, “I had a plan. The plan was, I outlived all those sons-a-[expletive]!” His gleeful announcement underscored the evening’s retrospection of CCR’s musical achievements.

The concert featured contributions from his sons, Shane and Tyler, who performed a short opening set with their band, Hearty Har. They infused their father’s sound with fresh energy before the evening’s star took center stage, commencing with archived footage that highlighted his artistic journey.

Fogerty, dressed in his signature flannel shirt and a bandana, captivated the crowd as he powered through a setlist overflowing with timeless hits, including “Bad Moon Rising” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” The visuals on the screen complemented his performance with nostalgia-inducing clips of California bikers and scenes from Woodstock.

In an unexpected twist during the concert, Fogerty invited a saxophonist to play alongside him on “Rock and Roll Girls,” showcasing his playful side with infectious energy. The night’s crescendo culminated in a rousing encore that included fan-favorite “Proud Mary,” closing the show with electrifying enthusiasm.

As Fogerty belted out “Fortunate Son,” he reflected on the ways his life had changed. “It ain’t me,” he howled, affirming that he is no longer a pawn in past disputes over his music. With the evening’s finale, he embraced his legacy, proudly reclaiming his connection to the music that originally defined him.