Have You Ever Seen The Rain? – Creedence Clearwater Revival

“Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” is a classic rock song by the American band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR). It was released as a single in 1971 and was featured on their album “Pendulum.” The song was written by the band’s lead vocalist and primary songwriter, John Fogerty.

“Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” has a catchy, upbeat sound, but the lyrics carry a more introspective and reflective tone. The song is often interpreted as an allegory for the Vietnam War and the social and political turbulence of the late 1960s and early 1970s. It speaks to the disillusionment and questioning of the world’s problems, as well as the search for hope and clarity amidst the chaos.

The lyrics of the song evoke a sense of longing and confusion, with lines such as “Someone told me long ago, there’s a calm before the storm” and “I wanna know, have you ever seen the rain coming down on a sunny day?” These lyrics suggest the contrast between outward appearances and inner turmoil, posing the question of whether anyone has truly witnessed the true nature of difficult times.

While Fogerty has never explicitly confirmed the meaning of the song, he has mentioned that it was influenced by the pending departure of his brother Tom Fogerty from the band and the internal tensions within CCR at the time. However, the song’s broad themes and relatable lyrics have made it resonate with audiences far beyond its original context.

“Have You Ever Seen the Rain?” became one of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s most popular and enduring songs. It reached number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has remained a staple on classic rock radio stations. The song’s timeless quality, memorable melody, and thought-provoking lyrics have contributed to its enduring popularity and its status as one of CCR’s signature songs.

Lyrics

Someone told me long ago
There’s a calm before the storm
I know it’s been comin’ for some time
When it’s over so they say
It’ll rain a sunny day
I know shinin’ down like water
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?
Yesterday and days before
Sun is cold and rain is hard
I know been that way for all my time
‘Til forever, on it goes
Through the circle, fast and slow,
I know it can’t stop, I wonder
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?
Yeah
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain?
I want to know
Have you ever seen the rain
Comin’ down on a sunny day?

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