John Fogerty, 81, Leaves Taylor Swift Beaming During a Performance of 'Proud Mary'
John Fogerty, 81, has a fan in Taylor Swift.
The '70s folk-rock legend was one of the celebrated honorees at the 2026 Songwriters Hall of Fame Induction and Awards Gala on Thursday, June 11, in New York City. The Creedence Clearwater Revival frontman was honored with the Johnny Mercer Award for his lasting impact on American music and songwriting.
John Fogerty Performs "Proud Mary" With His Sons
@people Dance partners for life. 💃🕺 #TaylorSwift#TravisKelce
♬ original sound - People Magazine
Fogerty took the stage, accompanied by his musician sons, Shane Fogerty and Tyler Fogerty, for a performance of his classic 1969 hit "Proud Mary," a song that has remained one of the most enduring and recognizable anthems in rock history since its release with CCR.
While Fogerty's performance was a highlight of the gala, it was pop star Taylor Swift and fiancé Travis Kelce's reaction from the audience that ultimately stole the show.
John Fogerty is one of the most prolific and celebrated songwriters of the 1960s and 1970s, known for legendary anthems including "Proud Mary," "Fortunate Son," and "Have You Ever Seen the Rain."
While Fogerty performed "Proud Mary," which was originally recorded by CCR and later made famous by Tina Turner, the energized crowd rose to its feet, led by Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce, dancing and singing along to the timeless hit.
Related: 1969 Hit Just Named John Fogerty's Best Song of All Time
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce's Reaction Steals the Show
Swift could be seen enthusiastically dancing and singing along as Fogerty performed and treating him to a rousing ovation as he accepted his award.
Fogerty's appearance underscored his enduring popularity and influence on generations of artists. His extensive songwriting catalog has left an indelible mark on popular music, making him a revered figure for songwriters like Swift.
Swift herself, who received the Hal David Starlight Award in 2010, was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame this year, making her the first Starlight Award recipient to advance to full membership status in the organization.
Steven Spielberg Captures a Memorable Moment
@amberg4207 "I had a plan, and that plan was - I outlived all those sons of bitches, and I got my music back!!!" - John Fogerty in his Songwriters Hall of Fame Speech *Taylor and Travis cheer* ❤️
♬ original sound - Amber(Taylor's Version)🫶🏻
In addition to Swift and Fogerty, musicians Brandi Carlile, Steve Miller, and the Goo Goo Dolls' Johnny Rzeznik were also on hand for the evening's festivities.
Despite all the star power in the room, it was Swift's joyful reaction to John Fogerty's performance that captured the evening's spirit. Her unfiltered enthusiasm for another music icon was so sweet, it even caught film director Steven Spielberg's attention.
The legendary filmmaker was seated next to Swift and broke out his iPhone to film her reaction to Fogerty's "Proud Mary" performance.
That's definitely a Steven Spielberg movie every Swiftie would like to see.
Related: '70s Rock Legend Shares Haunting Meaning Behind 'Have You Ever Seen the Rain?'
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This story was originally published June 11, 2026 at 11:34 PM.