John Fogerty is a famous American rock musician, singer, and songwriter best known as the frontman of the popular band Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR).
After CCR disbanded, he launched a successful solo career that stayed true to his bluesy, southern rock roots. Fogerty is known for hit songs like Proud Mary and Bad Moon Rising.
He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and continues to perform worldwide. And, his music also mixes rock, country, and blues influences with raw, real, and deeply American storytelling.
About the Song
The Old Man Down the Road tells the story of a mysterious, devil-like figure who blocks your path, symbolizing the struggles Fogerty faced with the music industry and legal battles.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | January 15, 1985 |
| Album | The Long Road Home (2005) |
| Writer | John Fogerty |
| Producer | John Fogerty |
The Old Man Down the Road Lyrics
Verse 1
He take a thunder from the mountain
He take a lightnin’ from the sky
He bring a strong man to his beggin’ knee
He make the young girl’s mama cry
Chorus
You got to hidey-hide
You got to jump and run
You got to hidey-hidey-hide
The old man is down the road
Verse 2
He got the voices speakin’ riddle
He got the eye as black as coal
He got a suitcase covered with rattlesnake hide
And he stands right in the road
Chorus
You got to hidey-hide
You got to jump up, run away
You got to hidey-hidey-hide
The old man is down the road
Instrumental Break
Verse 3
He make a river call your lover
He make the barkin’ of the hound
Put a shadow ‘cross the window
When the old man comes around
Chorus
You got to hidey-hide
You got to jump and run again
You got to hidey-hidey-hide
The old man is down the road
The old man is down the road
Outro
Ah
You got to, you got to, you got to
Hidey-hidey-hide
Similar Songs Like The Old Man Down the Road
Here are some other John Fogerty songs that show his signature style and storytelling flair. Each one brings something fresh, yet stays true to his roots in rock, blues, and Americana.
- Bad Moon Rising: This song uses jangling guitar, steady drums, and a clear voice to warn of rough times coming.
- Fortunate Son: Like a protest anthem, this song hits hard with bold guitar, driving beat, and Fogerty’s rough vocals, speaking up against unfair power.
- Who’ll Stop the Rain: A soft rock ballad with gentle guitar and honest lyrics. Fogerty asks deep questions about hope during long storms.
Similar Artists Like John Fogerty
If you enjoy John Fogerty’s roots-rock sound, gritty vocals, and storytelling style, you’ll likely appreciate these artists too.
- Tom Petty
Genre: Heartland Rock, Rock
Top Albums: Damn the Torpedoes – 1979, Full Moon Fever – 1989, Wildflowers – 1994 - Bob Seger
Genre: Rock, Heartland Rock
Top Albums: Night Moves – 1976, Against the Wind – 1980, The Distance – 1982 - Neil Young
Genre: Rock, Folk Rock
Top Albums: After the Gold Rush – 1970, Harvest – 1972, Rust Never Sleeps – 1979 - Bruce Springsteen
Genre: Rock, Heartland Rock
Top Albums: Born to Run – 1975, The River – 1980, Born in the U.S.A. – 1984 - The Band
Genre: Americana, Roots Rock
Top Albums: Music from Big Pink – 1968, The Band – 1969, Stage Fright – 1970
Frequently Asked Questions
What was The Old Man Down the Road Original Title?
It was first called “Somewhere Down the Road” before Fogerty changed it to the current title.
How do the Lyrics of The Old Man Down the Road Create a Sense of Fear or Suspense?
The song uses swampy, mysterious imagery and riddles to create a spooky, suspenseful mood.
What is the Meaning Behind The Suitcase with Rattlesnake Hide?
The rattlesnake-hide suitcase symbolizes danger and deception, showing the old man as someone who brings trouble.
