Which Band Takes the Title: Creedence Clearwater Revival or Three Dog Night?
The discussion of which band reigns supreme between Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) and Three Dog Night is a heated one among rock music enthusiasts. Both bands have produced numerous hits, but the debate often leans in favor of CCR. However, a critical aspect of Three Dog Night is often neglected in these discussions.
Creedence Clearwater Revival: The Principal Songwriter and Arranger
Creedence Clearwater Revival were a band that heavily relied on the visionary direction of John Fogerty. As the principal songwriter and arranger, Fogerty had a significant influence on the band's sound and direction. Often, Fogerty had his songs fully developed and worked out before the band entered the studio. Moreover, his leadership and the consistent quality of his compositions played a crucial role in the band's enduring reputation. CCR's swamp rock and gritty sound became iconic, setting them apart from many of their contemporaries.
The Role of Three Dog Night: Interpreting Others' Music
Three Dog Night, on the other hand, was a different kind of act. They were interpreters rather than original songwriters. The band consisted of professional musicians who specialized in a tight and cohesive arrangement of songs written by other artists. These were often songs created by emerging or lesser-known singer-songwriters. By giving these tracks a professional sheen, Three Dog Night helped launch the careers of many accomplished songwriters, including Elton John, Bernie Taupin, Randy Newman, and Harry Nilsson, among others.
A Phenomenon in Vocal Arrangements
Three Dog Night's most distinctive feature was their approach to vocal arrangements. Unlike the more conventional setup in most rock bands, Three Dog Night featured three lead vocalists—Cory Wells, Chuck Negron, and Danny Hutton—who could seamlessly transition between lead and backup roles. This unusual vocal setup could be likened to the three-man guitar army of Lynyrd Skynyrd. The band's vocal performances were not formulaic; instead, they focused on what best served the song.
Technical Mastery and Rehearsal
The skill level of Three Dog Night's musicians was impressive. Jimmy Greenspoon on keyboards, Floyd Sneed on drums, Joe Schermie on bass, and Mike Allsup on guitar formed a tight band that worked well together. They rehearsed tirelessly to lock into the arrangements like the precise movements of a timepiece's sprocket wheels. Their ability to work together seamlessly contributed to their professional delivery and polished sound.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In evaluating these two bands, it is important to recognize their distinct approaches. While Creedence Clearwater Revival relied on the vision and talent of John Fogerty, Three Dog Night successfully helped catapult several songwriters into mainstream success. Their unique vocal arrangements and collaborative ethos made them stand out in the rock music landscape.
Ultimately, the choice between Creedence Clearwater Revival and Three Dog Night may come down to personal preference. Both bands made indelible marks on rock music, but their contributions were in different but equally important ways.