"[8][9] He has also stated that the song is a reaction to blaring televisions and other noise of modern civilization, reflecting his preference for peace and clarity.

"[11] Fogerty biographer Thomas Kitts describes "Commotion" as representing a "noisy, restless" world, "full of chaos and damage.

"[12] According to Kitts, the singer sees "confusion, reckless energy, random movement and unhappiness" everywhere, and no one, including politicians or the church, can provide "leadership or direction.

"[12] Kitts sees a similarity between the lyrics of this song and a hair spray can turned into a missile in Thomas Pynchon's The Crying of Lot 49, as both reflect commotion that may be interpreted as a trope for an upcoming apocalypse.

[13]"Ramble Tamble," released on Creedence Clearwater Revival's 1970 album Cosmo's Factory, developed from parts of the working version of "Commotion.

John Fogerty played "Commotion" for the first time during his solo career on the opening leg of the Long Road Home Tour at Palais des Congrès, Paris, France, on June 28, 2006.