“The House of the Rising Sun” is a timeless classic that has left its mark on rock history due to its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. While the song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, the version by The Animals remains the most iconic and memorable rendition.
The story behind The Animals’ recording of “House of the Rising Sun” is an intriguing one. The band, which hailed from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, was comprised of Eric Burdon on vocals, Alan Price on keyboards, Hilton Valentine on guitar, Chas Chandler on bass, and John Steel on drums. In 1964, they found themselves in a recording session at De Lane Lea Studios in London.
The decision to record “House of the Rising Sun” was a spontaneous one. The band had been playing the song in their live sets, and producer Mickie Most suggested they record it in the studio. What made their version so unique was the haunting organ played by Alan Price, which set the melancholic tone of the song.
Released in 1964 as a single, “House of the Rising Sun” became an instant hit, reaching the number one spot on the charts in both the UK and the US. The success of the song propelled The Animals to international fame and solidified their reputation as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion.
One interesting fact about the song is its origins. “House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song that dates back to the 19th century. Its lyrics tell the story of a person’s life gone astray in New Orleans, often associated with the city’s red-light district. The song has been recorded by various artists over the years, but The Animals’ version stands out for its raw emotion and captivating arrangement.
The impact of “House of the Rising Sun” went beyond just its commercial success. The song is often credited with influencing the direction of rock music at the time, with its brooding atmosphere and powerful vocals setting a new standard for the genre. It showcased the band’s ability to take a traditional song and make it their own, injecting it with a fresh energy that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Despite their early success with “House of the Rising Sun,” The Animals faced internal tensions that eventually led to the band’s breakup in the late 1960s. Eric Burdon went on to have a successful solo career, while other members pursued various musical endeavors.
In conclusion, The Animals’ rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” remains a standout moment in rock history. The song’s haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and emotional delivery have solidified its place as a classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. Through their unique interpretation, The Animals left an indelible mark on the world of rock music, showcasing their talent and creativity for generations to come.