Originally written and recorded by “Screamin’ Jay” Hawkins in 1956, “I Put a Spell on You” became a cult classic, covered by many artists over the years. Although Hawkins’ version of the song became his biggest commercial hit, surpassing a million copies in sales, it never charted on the Billboard pop or R&B charts. Despite this, it has remained a powerful influence in rock and roll history, with the song being included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame’s list of 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll and ranking at No. 313 on Rolling Stone

In October 1968, Creedence Clearwater Revival (CCR) released their version of “I Put a Spell on You” as part of their self-titled debut album. This cover resonated with CCR’s distinctive sound and was a perfect fit for John Fogerty’s intense vocal style, which mirrored Hawkins’ passionate delivery. The song was released as a single in October 1968, with “Walk on the Water” as its B-side. It reached No. 58 on the U.S. charts and became a staple in CCR’s live performances, including at the iconic Woodstock Festival in 1969.

Lyrics

I put a spell on you, because you’re mine
You better stop the thing that you’re doin’
I said, “Watch out, I ain’t lyin’”, yeah
I ain’t gonna take none of your, foolin’ around
I ain’t gonna take none of your, puttin’ me down
I put a spell on you because you’re mine, all right
I put a spell on you, because you’re mine
You better stop, the thing that you’re doin’
I said, “Watch out, I ain’t lyin’”, yeah
I ain’t gonna take none of your, foolin’ around
I ain’t gonna take none of your, puttin’ me down
I put a spell on you because you’re mine, all right and I took it down