Most folks in their late sixties are slowing down, enjoying retirement, maybe even filling out papers for a quiet spot in a retirement home. But not John Fogerty and Billy Gibbons. These two rock giants from the early ’70s proved in 2013 that fire doesn’t fade with age—it roars louder. On October 17 at the Hard Rock Casino in Tulsa, the crowd expected nostalgia. What they got instead was a time machine. Fogerty tore into “Born on the Bayou” with the same swamp-soaked grit that once defined a generation, and just when the audience thought it couldn’t get any better, Gibbons stormed the stage. His guitar didn’t just play—it slashed through the air, sharp and dangerous, like 1973 had come crashing back to life.

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“Born On The Bayou” John Fogerty & Billy Gibbons @ Hard Rock Casino Tulsa 10-17-2013

On October 17, 2013, rock music fans at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tulsa, Oklahoma, witnessed a rare and electrifying collaboration when John Fogerty, the legendary frontman of Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR), was joined on stage by Billy Gibbons, the iconic guitarist of ZZ Top. This memorable night featured performances that showcased the powerful chemistry between two rock giants, highlighted by a standout rendition of CCR’s classic “Born on the Bayou.”

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Fogerty, who was touring in support of his 2013 album Wrote a Song for Everyone, delighted audiences by performing entire albums from his CCR catalog. His gritty vocals and swamp rock style brought the music to life, connecting generations of rock lovers. The surprise appearance of Billy Gibbons elevated the show to another level. Gibbons first captivated the crowd with a high-energy version of ZZ Top’s “Sharp Dressed Man” before teaming up with Fogerty for “Born on the Bayou,” blending his signature blues-rock guitar tone with Fogerty’s raw vocal power.

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“Born on the Bayou,” originally released in 1969, is a swamp rock anthem that transports listeners to the heart of the American South through its evocative storytelling and murky, blues-infused instrumentation. Together, Fogerty and Gibbons infused the song with fresh energy, creating a live experience that felt both nostalgic and exhilarating. The synergy between the two musicians was evident as they fed off each other’s presence, delivering a performance that was at once spontaneous and tight.

Sharp Dressed Man" John Fogerty & Billy Gibbons @ Hard Rock Casino Tulsa 10-17-13 - YouTube

The Tulsa show remains a memorable moment for fans lucky enough to witness this unique pairing. The video capturing their performance continues to circulate, offering viewers a glimpse into a powerful live collaboration between two of rock’s most enduring legends. This event stands as a testament to the timelessness of classic rock and the extraordinary moments that happen when iconic artists come together on stage.

Born On The Bayou" John Fogerty & Billy Gibbons @ Hard Rock Casino Tulsa 10-17-2013 - YouTube

For those who missed this historic performance, the video recording of their rendition of “Born on the Bayou” serves as a testament to the power of live music and the magic that happens when musical icons unite.

To experience this remarkable performance, you can watch the video below:

 

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