The Animals were a British rock band formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1962. They are best known for their blues-rock sound and powerful vocals, and are considered one of the pioneers of the British Invasion of the 1960s. Their most iconic song, “The House of the Rising Sun,” remains a timeless classic and a staple of classic rock radio.
Released in 1964, “The House of the Rising Sun” quickly became a global hit, topping the charts in the UK, US, and Canada. While its origins are debatable, the song is believed to be a traditional American folk song, possibly dating back to the 19th century.
The song’s distinctive sound is rooted in its minimalist arrangement. The opening features a haunting acoustic guitar riff, followed by Eric Burdon’s powerful and raw vocals. The rhythm section, consisting of Alan Price on keyboards, Chas Chandler on bass, and Hilton Valentine and John Steel on guitars, provides a steady and driving beat.
The lyrics of “The House of the Rising Sun” are full of ambiguity and symbolism. They tell the story of a narrator who is trapped in a life of hardship and loneliness, possibly referencing a gambling den or a prison.
The song’s structure is deceptively simple, consisting of a single verse and chorus that repeats throughout. However, the intensity and passion of the performance elevate the song to a powerful and memorable experience.
“The House of the Rising Sun” has been covered by countless artists across various genres, including Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Nina Simone. Despite numerous interpretations, The Animals’ version remains the definitive one, capturing the raw energy and emotional depth of the song.