The band Commotion will headline the final Celebrity Series concert of the 2026-2026 season at Westminster College, taking the stage at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 25, in the college’s Orr Auditorium. Fans can expect a setlist packed with the anthems that defined an era — from the propulsive stomp of Bad Moon Rising to the defiant chords of Fortunate Son. This performance aims to transport listeners back to the late 1960s and early 1970s with a faithful recreation of the songs and the energy that made Creedence Clearwater Revival a cultural touchstone.
Rather than a loose collection of covers, Commotion presents itself as an immersive live tribute. By emphasizing both sonic detail and stage presence, the group delivers an experience that’s equal parts concert and curated homage. The show will feature a blend of signature hits, deep cuts and a multi-media experience designed to complement the music. Whether you know every lyric or are simply drawn to timeless rock and roll, the evening promises high-energy nostalgia and craftsmanship from seasoned players.
What to expect from the set
Audiences should expect tight arrangements and faithful renditions of Creedence classics such as “Green River“, “Have You Ever Seen the Rain” and the chart-topping “Bad Moon Rising“. The setlist is arranged to recreate the dynamic flow of a CCR concert, moving between driving, up-tempo numbers and the more reflective ballads that showcase melody and harmony. Musically, the band focuses on preserving the signature CCR groove—a combination of swampy rhythms, twangy guitar leads and straightforward yet powerful vocal delivery—while adding modern production values in the live presentation to keep the show engaging for contemporary audiences.
The musicians behind the sound
At the center of the performance is lead vocalist Steve McLain, whose husky tone and emotional delivery channel the spirit of John Fogerty. McLain has spent over 20 years performing and honing a style that emphasizes audience connection and dynamic phrasing, and he’s known for delivering the grit and nuance listeners associate with CCR’s recordings. Beside him, guitarist Jimmy Ryan provides the instrumental fireworks; as a platinum-certified artist and a Lifetime Achievement Award inductee in the Iowa Rock & Roll Music Association Hall of Fame, Ryan brings decades of professional experience and stylistic authenticity to the tribute.
Jimmy Ryan and Steve McLain: leadership and legacy
Jimmy Ryan has worked with a wide array of music legends—names that span pop, rock and folk—and those collaborative experiences shine through in his playing. His resume includes performances with artists such as Carly Simon, Paul McCartney, Elton John, Mick Jagger, Cat Stevens, James Taylor, Rod Stewart and Jim Croce, which informs his ability to recreate complex guitar parts with both precision and feeling. Meanwhile, Steve McLain combines that instrumental excellence with vocal charisma, shaping an emotional arc across the set that keeps listeners invested from opener to finale.
The rhythm section: heartbeat of the tribute
A faithful CCR sound depends on a rock-solid rhythm foundation, and Commotion answers that need with drummer Mark Ellis and bassist George Foster. Their tight interplay reproduces the driving pulse and danceable backbeat that made CCR so influential, from swamp-rock shuffles to propulsive rockers. These players prioritize groove and feel—essential qualities when interpreting songs that rely as much on rhythmic nuance as on melody—ensuring the audience experiences the music the way it was meant to be heard.
Tickets, logistics and how to attend
Ticket details are available through the Westminster College box office. For reservations or questions, patrons may call Georgene Gib at 724-946-7354. Tickets can also be ordered online at www.westminstrer.edu/celebrity. The performance begins promptly at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, April 25, in Orr Auditorium; attendees should arrive early to secure seating and to experience any pre-show elements of the multi-media experience. The event is marketed toward general audiences, from longtime devotees of Creedence Clearwater Revival to casual rock fans seeking an energetic night out.
Final note
In short, Commotion aims to offer more than a playlist of familiar tunes: it presents a carefully rendered evening that honors the original recordings while delivering live performance thrills. Expect a passionate tribute, precise musicianship and an atmosphere built around the timeless songs that continue to resonate across generations.