is a comprehensive biography written by veteran music journalist Hank Bordowitz . It chronicles the rapid rise and sudden fall of one of America's most successful rock bands, often described as "the saddest story in rock 'n' roll history" due to the bitter legal battles and personal dissension that followed their peak success. Core Themes & Narrative
: The book focuses heavily on the mounting tensions within the group, specifically regarding frontman John Fogerty’s total creative control.
: It details the "ill-conceived contracts" with Fantasy Records and Saul Zaentz that left the band members burdened by debt and legal obligations despite their massive success.
: A significant portion of the updated editions covers the decades of lawsuits and acrimony that followed the band's 1972 dissolution, including John Fogerty's refusal to play his own CCR songs for many years. Publication Details Author Hank Bordowitz First Published November 1998 (Schirmer Books) Updated Edition July 2007 (Chicago Review Press) Length Approx. 350–400 pages (varies by edition) Format Available in Paperback, Hardcover, and Kindle Critical Reception
