Rock and Roll Hall of Famer John Fogerty is reclaiming his musical legacy with a new album of re-recorded Creedence Clearwater Revival hits. Titled Legacy: The Creedence Clearwater Revival Years, the 20-track collection will be released on August 22, 2025, via Concord.
The album features fresh versions of CCR staples such as “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” “Fortunate Son,” and “Have You Ever Seen the Rain.” According to the announcement, the project is both a tribute to Fogerty’s iconic catalog and a personal act of reclaiming his artistic rights as he turns 80.
“For most of my life, I did not own the songs I had written,” Fogerty said. “Getting them back changes everything. Legacy is my way of celebrating that — of playing these songs on my terms, with the people I love.”
Fogerty unveiled the album during his sold-out 80th birthday concert at New York’s Beacon Theatre on Wednesday night. The project was produced by Fogerty and his son Shane, with executive production by his wife and manager, Julie Fogerty.
Although not directly referenced by Fogerty, the move mirrors Taylor Swift’s re-recording of her early albums to regain control of her work. For Fogerty, the effort carries added significance. He spent decades in a legal battle with former Fantasy Records owner Saul Zaentz over the rights to his songs. That conflict led to a long hiatus from music and public performances.
Fogerty returned in 1985 with Centerfield, which included the track “Vanz Kant Danz”—a veiled jab at Zaentz. The song led to a $144 million lawsuit, which Fogerty ultimately won. The dispute deeply affected his career, though conditions improved after Concord bought Fantasy in 2004.
In 2023, Fogerty finally acquired a majority interest in the global publishing rights to his Creedence catalog from Concord, marking a turning point in his decades-long battle for ownership. Although Concord still owns the original recordings, the label will also distribute the new versions.
“This is a celebration of his life’s work,” said Julie Fogerty. “It’s the biggest party for the good guy — the artist — winning.”
The album features contributions from Fogerty’s sons Shane and Tyler, along with musicians Matt Chamberlain, Bob Malone, Bob Glaub, and Rob Stone. Newly recorded versions of “Up Around the Bend,” “Have You Ever Seen the Rain,” and “Porterville” are now available on streaming platforms.
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