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Riding the Rhythm: Creedence Clearwater Revival – Molina
By 1970, Creedence Clearwater Revival had already cemented their place in rock history with a string of gritty, roots-driven hits. But buried among the big anthems like “Bad Moon Rising” and “Fortunate Son” is a lesser-known gem that shines with its own joyful light: “Molina.” Short, sweet, and irresistibly rhythmic, this song proves CCR didn’t need big statements to leave a big impression.
A Fast Ride Through Swamp Rock Territory
Clocking in at just over two minutes, “Molina” is a no-frills love song wrapped in the band’s signature swampy groove. It was released on their 1970 album “Pendulum,” which marked a moment of transition for the band—more layered instrumentation, a bit more polish—but “Molina” keeps things raw and rootsy.
From the first beat, the rhythm kicks in like a train picking up speed. The drums are tight, the bass steady, and John Fogerty’s voice—raspy and confident—rides right over the top with a sense of urgency.
“Molina, where you goin’ to?”
It’s not a ballad, and it’s not a lament—it’s more like a playful chase. There’s a woman named Molina, she’s got that mysterious energy, and the narrator can’t help but follow where she leads.
Simple Lyrics, Classic Hook
The lyrics are straightforward but catchy, carried by repetition and groove. CCR never overcomplicated things, and that’s part of their charm. “Molina” doesn’t try to be poetic—it’s more about feel than meaning.
And yet, that simplicity gives it staying power. Lines like:
“Gonna build a tenement, just for you / Gonna be a tenement, honey, gonna be for two”
…might sound rough around the edges, but paired with the beat, they become instantly memorable.
Often Overlooked, But Always Fun
“Molina” wasn’t released as a major single, and it doesn’t usually appear on CCR’s “Greatest Hits” playlists. But for fans who dig into the albums, it’s a standout. It shows another side of the band: upbeat, playful, and not afraid to just jam out a feel-good tune without a deeper message.
It’s also a great example of CCR’s ability to blend rock, blues, country, and R&B influences into something uniquely theirs. No gimmicks—just tight musicianship and a love for rhythm.
Final Thought
“Molina” may not be CCR’s most iconic track, but it captures everything people love about the band: tight grooves, gritty vocals, and that unshakable Southern rock vibe (even if they were from California!). It’s a reminder that not every song has to be an anthem—sometimes, it’s enough for a track to just move you.
So if you’ve never heard it—or haven’t listened in a while—go ahead and press play. Let Molina take you for a quick ride. Just try not to tap your foot. We dare you.
