John Fogerty Reflects on the Lost Amp That Shaped Creedence Clearwater Revival's Sound
“I spent the next 45 years trying to get someone to replicate that”: John Fogerty on the long-lost amp that was the key to his Creedence Clearwater Revival tone

Image: Guitar World
John Fogerty, the frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival, reminisces about his lost Kustom K200A amplifier, which he used during the band's peak in 1970. After 45 years of searching for a replica, he reflects on how the amp contributed to their iconic sound and his musical legacy.
- 01Fogerty used a Kustom K200A amplifier during Creedence Clearwater Revival's peak, which he describes as the best-sounding solid-state amp ever made.
- 02The amp featured four built-in effects, including a unique vibrato-tremolo blend that Fogerty used in songs like 'Born on the Bayou.'
- 03After CCR's disbandment, Fogerty gave away his prized Rickenbacker guitar and lost rights to his music, leading to a difficult period in his life.
- 04Fogerty has spent 45 years trying to find someone who could replicate the sound of his lost Kustom amp.
- 05He has successfully regained his Rickenbacker and music rights, suggesting he may eventually recover the amp as well.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
John Fogerty, the legendary frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), opened up about his emotional journey following the band's breakup in the early 1970s. Reflecting on the whirlwind year of 1970, when CCR achieved major success, Fogerty highlighted the significance of his Kustom K200A amplifier, which he described as possibly the best-sounding solid-state amp ever. This amp, known for its unique sound and built-in effects, played a crucial role in shaping the band's iconic sound. Fogerty reminisced about how he utilized the amp's vibrato-tremolo effect in classic tracks like 'Born on the Bayou.' Despite giving away his beloved Rickenbacker guitar and losing rights to his music, Fogerty has managed to reclaim these vital pieces of his legacy. However, the Kustom amp remains elusive, and he has spent the last 45 years searching for a way to replicate its sound. With his track record of perseverance, including the recovery of his guitar and music rights, Fogerty remains hopeful about eventually finding a replacement for the amp that defined his musical journey.
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Advertisement
In-Article Ad
Reader Poll
What do you think is the most important aspect of a musician's sound?
Connecting to poll...
Read the original article
Visit the source for the complete story.





