In Memory of Tom Fogerty: Hometown Unveils Statue Honoring Creedence Clearwater Revival Legend
June 7, 2025 – Berkeley, California
The hometown of Tom Fogerty stood still in reverence today as a bronze statue of the legendary Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) rhythm guitarist was unveiled in a heartfelt ceremony marking over three decades since his passing. Fans, family members, fellow musicians, and city officials gathered in Berkeley, California — where Fogerty was born — to honor the life, legacy, and indelible musical imprint of the late rock pioneer.
Contrary to common belief, Tom Fogerty was not CCR’s drummer — that role belonged to Doug “Cosmo” Clifford — but he was the band’s founding rhythm guitarist, a central figure whose steady playing and musical instincts helped shape the raw, swampy sound that catapulted Creedence into rock immortality during the late 1960s and early ’70s.
A Tribute Long Overdue
The 7-foot-tall statue, cast in bronze and sculpted by renowned artist Marla Harrison, features Tom Fogerty in his prime — guitar in hand, head tilted slightly downward in mid-strum, capturing his introspective yet vital stage presence. It now stands at the entrance of the Berkeley Community Arts Park, just blocks from where Fogerty spent his formative years.
“Tom’s legacy is more than just rhythm guitar — it’s the soul of a band that defined an era,” said Harrison. “He was the quiet engine behind Creedence, and I wanted this piece to reflect both his strength and humility.”
The unveiling was accompanied by a live performance of CCR classics by local musicians, including “Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,” and “Green River,” with a spotlight moment for the lesser-known but deeply felt “Walk on the Water,” which Tom co-wrote during CCR’s early days when they were still known as The Golliwogs.
Remembering Tom Fogerty: A Life in Rhythm and Restraint
Born on November 9, 1941, Tom Fogerty was the older brother of John Fogerty, the iconic lead singer and lead guitarist of CCR. Tom was the band’s rhythm anchor, providing the backbone to a sound that blended Southern rock, blues, and Americana with surprising political bite — despite the band hailing from Northern California.
While John’s voice and songwriting took center stage, Tom’s contributions — both musically and personally — were instrumental in building the CCR machine. The tensions between the brothers, however, eventually led to Tom leaving the band in 1971. He pursued a solo career, releasing several albums including Excalibur and Deal It Out, which earned him a modest cult following.
Sadly, Tom passed away in 1990 at the age of 48 due to complications from AIDS, which he contracted via a blood transfusion. His passing left a hole in the CCR legacy that has only grown more poignant over time.
Family, Fans, and Friends Speak Out
At the ceremony, Tom’s surviving family members, including his sons Jeff and Shane Fogerty — both musicians themselves — expressed gratitude for the overdue recognition.
“For years, people only saw a fraction of who Dad was,” said Jeff. “This statue helps remind everyone that he was more than just the guy behind the rhythm. He was a creator, a collaborator, and someone who loved music and loved his family.”
John Fogerty, who has had a complicated and often strained history with his late brother, released a short but touching statement:
“Tom and I had our differences, but none of that changes how proud I am of the music we made together. He deserves this.”
Doug Clifford and Stu Cook, the other surviving CCR members, also sent their support. Clifford’s note read, “Tom was the glue, the one who kept us balanced during the chaos. He should be remembered for that.”
A City Reflects on a Native Son
Berkeley Mayor Eliza Rodriguez, who helped champion the public art project, emphasized the local pride in Fogerty’s accomplishments.
“Tom Fogerty represents what makes Berkeley great — creativity, resilience, and a deep belief in the power of expression. With this statue, we enshrine that spirit and remind future generations of the greatness that can come from right here at home.”
The city also announced the creation of the Fogerty Music Scholarship, aimed at supporting young, underserved musicians in the Bay Area, offering lessons, instruments, and studio access — a nod to the humble roots from which Tom and his band emerged.
The Legacy Lives On
As the sun set on the ceremony, hundreds lingered around the statue, laying down flowers, guitar picks, and handwritten notes of thanks.
One note, scrawled in marker on a worn vinyl copy of Bayou Country, simply read:
“Thank you for the rhythm. We’ll carry the beat from here.”
In a time where music often moves at the speed of virality, the memory of Tom Fogerty stands as a reminder of music built to last — grounded in soul, family, and unshakeable rhythm.
