The Animals – House Of The Rising Sun

A true classic of the British Invasion and a song that continues to resonate with listeners across generations. Released in 1964, it stands as a prime example of how the Animals, a British band, breathed new life into an old American folk song.

The origins of “House of the Rising Sun” are shrouded in mystery, a characteristic it shares with many folk tunes. There’s no single, definitive author credited. Scholars believe it emerged from the American South or Appalachia sometime in the late 19th or early 20th century. Early versions, often titled “Rising Sun Blues”, were passed down orally, evolving through countless retellings by traveling musicians. The lyrics paint a bleak picture, typically sung from the perspective of a down-and-out character lamenting their fate in a metaphorical or literal “House of the Rising Sun.” Interpretations vary, with some suggesting the house is a prison, a gambling den, or even a brothel.

The song entered the wider public consciousness in the 1930s thanks to recordings by folk musicians like Alan Lomax and Georgia Turner. By the 1960s, it had become a staple in the repertoire of American folk revival artists like Dave Van Ronk and Bob Dylan. It was through Dylan that the song found its way to the Animals. Eric Burdon, the band’s charismatic vocalist, was particularly drawn to its haunting melody and cryptic lyrics.

The Animals’ version of “House of the Rising Sun” stands apart from earlier interpretations. While the folk versions were typically slow and mournful, the Animals injected a raw energy with their electric guitars and driving rhythm section. Burdon’s powerful vocals, with their signature growl, added a layer of desperation and urgency that was absent in previous versions. This electrifying arrangement, credited to Animals keyboardist Alan Price, is what truly propelled the song to superstardom.

“House of the Rising Sun” became a runaway hit, reaching number one on both the UK and US charts. It was a major factor in the success of the British Invasion, helping to pave the way for bands like The Rolling Stones and The Who. The song’s influence can be heard across genres, from rock to blues to even heavy metal.

The Animals’ success with “House of the Rising Sun” is a testament to the power of reinterpretation. They took a traditional folk song and infused it with a new energy, creating a sound that resonated with a new generation. The song’s enduring popularity speaks to its timeless themes of loss, longing, and the allure of escape. It’s a captivating blend of folk tradition and rock and roll innovation, a true landmark in music history.

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Lyrics

“The House Of The Rising Sun”