Bass guitarist Stu Cook and Creedence Clearwater Revival are undisputed legends in the music industry, top-of-their-profession artists who were deservedly inducted in to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The band has sold more than 100 million albums.
Cook and drummer Doug Clifford are still going strong and then some. Their group, Creedence Clearwater Revival, which was formed 20 years ago, will be performing at Lynn Memorial Auditorium Friday night.
“We’ve had a great year of touring and of course, we’re excited about coming to Lynn, Massachusetts,” said Cook in a phone interview from his residence in Florida.
Vocalist John Tristao, keyboarder Steve Gunner, and lead guitar Kurt Griffey will join Cook and Clifford for Creedence Clearwater Revisited’s performance in Lynn.
“It’s been great working with these guys – they’re terrific musicians,” said Cook.
Cook said he expects to see many long-time fans of the group in the audience Friday night.
“People love the songs – that’s why we’re there. They want to be a part of a Creedence celebration,” said Cook, whose original group performed at Woodstock.
Cook was asked whether he could have envisioned a long and successful career in music and international fame.
“Of course not. We couldn’t have predicted the success,” said Cook. “We had no idea that we were going to be remembered so many years later.”
While he appreciates the international acclaim for his work, he truly enjoys the interaction with fans.
“To us, the relationship with our fans is the most important thing,” said Cook. “Lynn fans can expect us to play All Creedence, all night. People come to hear their Creedence played right and that’s what we do for them.”
Jamie Marsh, general manager of the Lynn Auditorium, said he is excited about CCR performing here.
“We are so excited to be hosting Stu Cook and Doug Clifford here Friday night,” said Marsh. “As original members of Creedence Clearwater Revival with the Fogertys, and also members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, fans will witness two of the best in the business here this weekend.”
Marsh said Creedence continues a string of great classic rock bands that have performed in Lynn.
“Classic Rock is really one of niches here at Lynn Auditorium and CCR no doubt fits that bill,” said Marsh. “We were a little hesitant when booking them in that it was Halloween night, but with songs like Bad Moon Rising, I Put A Spell on You, and audience members who are sure to dress up, it will be a fun night.”
The Lynn Auditorium has become one of the popular entertainment venues on the North Shore.
“Attendance at all our shows is way up thanks in no small part to the efforts of my staff and all Mayor [Judith] Kennedy has done and continues to do to promote Lynn and the Lynn Auditorium as a destination for arts and entertainment,” said Marsh.