About the song
“It’s My Life,” originally performed by The Animals and written by New York City songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, stands as a definitive anthem of independence and defiance in the rock music landscape of the 1960s. Released as a single in October 1965, the song quickly garnered attention for its distinctive blend of blues-rock and rebellious lyricism.
Atkins and D’Errico, known for their association with the Brill Building scene, crafted “It’s My Life” specifically for The Animals, responding to a call from their producer Mickie Most for new material. This collaboration yielded a track that became a cornerstone of The Animals’ repertoire, alongside hits like “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” and “Don’t Bring Me Down.”
The song’s musical texture is marked by a compelling bass guitar riff by Chas Chandler and an electric twelve-string guitar riff by Hilton Valentine. Dave Rowberry’s organ work further distinguishes the track, giving The Animals a distinct sound within the broader “British Invasion” movement. Eric Burdon’s gritty vocals, resonating with the working-class origins of Tyneside, North East England, add depth to lyrics that assert personal freedom amidst societal constraints.
“It’s My Life” features a powerful chorus where Burdon declares, “It’s my life and I’ll do what I want,” echoing a sentiment of individual empowerment that resonated deeply with listeners. The song’s impact extended beyond its musical composition, making a visual splash on US television during its premiere on Hullabaloo in 1965.
Critically acclaimed for its bold lyrical stance and infectious rhythm, “It’s My Life” epitomized the spirit of rebellion in 1960s rock music. It was part of a transformative period where artists like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan were reshaping the role of music in reflecting and challenging societal norms.
Over the years, “It’s My Life” has been covered by various artists, attesting to its enduring relevance and appeal. Billboard praised its “offbeat lyric and slow driving dance beat,” recognizing its potential as a chart-topping contender. Cash Box described it as a “twangy, low-down blues-drenched ode,” capturing its essence as a rebellious anthem.
In summary, “It’s My Life” remains a timeless testament to the power of music to articulate defiance and independence, cementing its place as a classic in rock music history and a defining moment for The Animals’ legacy.
Video
Lyrics
It’s a hard world to get a break in
All the good things have been taken
But girl, there are ways to make certain things pay
Though I’m dressed in these rags
I’ll wear sable some day
Hear what I say
I’m gonna ride that serpent
No more time spent
Sweatin’ rent
Hear my command
I’m breakin’ loose
And ain’t no use
Holdin’ me down
Stick around
But baby (Baby)
Remember (Remember)
It’s my life and I’ll do what I want
It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want
Show me I’m wrong
Hurt me sometime
But some day I’ll treat you real fine
There’ll be women and their fortunes
Who just want to mother orphans
Are you gonna cry while I’m squeezin’ them dry?
Takin’ all I can get, no regrets
When I openly lie
And live on their money
Believe me, honey
That money
Can you believe I ain’t no saint?
No complaints
So girl, throw out any doubt
And baby (Baby)
Remember (Remember)
It’s my life and I’ll do what I want
It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want
Show me I’m wrong
Hurt me sometime
But some day I’ll treat you real fine
Don’t push it
(It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want)
It’s my life
Can’t get to do what I want
(It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want)
You can’t tell me
(It’s my life and I’ll do what I want)
It’s my mind