Riff Tone

Susie Q

Creedence Clearwater Revival

Guitarrock1960s

Original Gear

GuitarRickenbacker 325

AmpKustom K200A-4 solid-state amplifier

PickupsRickenbacker single coil

Amp Settings

gain4

bass6.5

mid6.5

treble6.5

reverb2

presence4.5

Effects & Signal Chain

No effects used for this tone

Notes

Studio recording, 1968. John Fogerty played the main riff on a Rickenbacker 325 through a Kustom K200A-4 amp. No evidence of pedals or outboard effects for the riff section; amp reverb likely used. Gear confirmed for this era and song by Premier Guitar and other sources.

Tone Character(10)

raw and twangy edgebiting and aggressivemild breakup with clean foundationbright and articulateslightly compressedtouch of amp reverbtight and percussive attacksingle coil claritybare-knuckled convictionclassic swamp rock

Difficulty

The riff is rhythmically straightforward but requires precise timing and muting for the swampy, percussive feel. Not technically difficult, but maintaining the groove and articulation is key.

Sources

John Fogerty: That Old Travelin’ Bone - Premier Guitar Tone Settings for Fortunate Son by Creedence Clearwater Revival (guitar and amp) - Guitar Chalk John Fogerty's tone on Suzy Q | Guitar Forum - The Gear Page Wren and Cuff Mercy Phuk Overdrive Review - Premier Guitar

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