10 Greatest Songs About Other Musicians
3. The Mamas & The Papas - Creeque Alley
The third-most famous track by The Mamas And The Papas tells the story in song of the Laurel Canyon scene of the mid ‘60s. The primary protagonists are the members of the group themselves, with “Creeque Alley” humorously recounting their formation, but in doing so, they illuminate the thriving movement over an upbeat melody.
The tune sees John Phillips, Michelle Gilliam, Cass Elliot and Denny Doherty slip in and out of other bands on their search for fame before finally coming together. In the interim, they watch with envy as friends Roger McGuinn (The Byrds) and Barry Maguire find the fame and prosperity that continues to elude them.
The track shouts out The Lovin’ Spoonful, Phillips and Gilliam’s former act The Mugwumps, and many more besides, all the while taking slightly bizarre swipes at Mama Cass’ weight and ending the story on a happy note: the group rich, famous, and achieving immortality with their best remembered song “California Dreamin'”.