"[9] Although the song seems to be mostly about idyllic memories, in the last verse a character named Old Cody Junior warns the singer that he's going to find the world smoldering but can always come back to Green River.

[12] As to the music, Fogerty said that: "Green River" is obviously a tip of the hat to the Sun Records sound, but I can't think of any real specific song.

"[13] Cash Box described it as developing "the bayou-rock style of the CCR in a slower than 'Bad Moon Rising' track that could steal the spotlight.

"[16] Ultimate Classic Rock critic Cliff M. Junior rated "Green River" as Creedence Clearwater Revival's 7th greatest song.

[11] "Green River" was certified gold (500,000 units sold) by the Recording Industry Association of America on December 13, 1990.