About the song
The Animals were a British rock band formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1962. The group’s original lineup consisted of lead singer Eric Burdon, keyboardist Alan Price, guitarist Hilton Valentine, bassist Chas Chandler, and drummer John Steel. The Animals were one of the most successful British Invasion bands of the 1960s, and their signature song, “House of the Rising Sun”, is considered one of the greatest rock songs of all time.
“House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song that has been covered by many artists, but The Animals’ version is the definitive recording. The song was released as a single in 1964 and reached number one on the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s dark and brooding atmosphere is created by Burdon’s haunting vocals, Price’s mournful organ, and Valentine’s bluesy guitar.
The lyrics of “House of the Rising Sun” tell the story of a young woman who has fallen on hard times. She is forced to work in a brothel, and she sings of her regrets and her longing for a better life. The song’s themes of sin, redemption, and loss have resonated with listeners for generations.
“House of the Rising Sun” has been covered by many artists, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and The Doors. However, The Animals’ version remains the definitive recording. The song is a classic of 1960s rock music and continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
Here are some additional details about the song:
- The song was recorded at Regent Sound Studios in London.
- The session musicians on the song included Alan Price on organ, Hilton Valentine on guitar, Chas Chandler on bass, and John Steel on drums.
- The song was produced by Mickie Most.
- The song was released as a single in 1964.
- The song reached number one on the charts in the United States and the United Kingdom.
- The song has been covered by many artists, including Bob Dylan, Joan Baez, and The Doors.
- The Animals’ version of the song remains the definitive recording.
- The song is a classic of 1960s rock music and continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages.
In addition to its commercial success, “House of the Rising Sun” has also been praised by critics. The song was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999 and was ranked number 122 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” in 2004. In 2021, the song was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant”.
“House of the Rising Sun” is a timeless classic that continues to be enjoyed by listeners of all ages. The song’s dark and brooding atmosphere, haunting vocals, and bluesy guitar make it a true masterpiece. If you’re a fan of 1960s rock music, or if you’re simply looking for a great song to listen to, then “House of the Rising Sun” is definitely worth checking out.