About the song
The Animals’ “Bring It On Home To Me” isn’t just a song; it’s a raw and electrifying moment in rock and roll history. Originally written and recorded by American soul singer Sam Cooke, The Animals took the song and injected it with a ferocious energy, influencing generations of musicians to come.
Background:
Released in 1965, The Animals’ version came two years after Sam Cooke’s original. While Cooke’s version was a soulful plea, The Animals transformed it into a garage rock anthem. Eric Burdon’s vocals are a force of nature, raw and desperate, echoing the pain of a lost love. The stripped-down instrumentation, driven by Hilton Valentine’s distorted guitar and Alan Price’s pounding piano, creates a sense of urgency that perfectly complements the lyrics.
Themes:
- Desperation and longing: The lyrics paint a picture of a man consumed by the absence of his lover. Burdon’s desperate pleas of “Bring it on home to me” are a powerful expression of a yearning for lost love.
- Power and control: Despite the vulnerability, the music itself is infused with a raw power. This duality reflects the internal struggle of the narrator, wrestling with both heartbreak and a desire to reclaim some control over the situation.
- Social commentary (potential): While not explicitly stated, some interpretations suggest the song can be seen as a broader commentary on social issues of the time, particularly the struggles of marginalized communities yearning for a sense of belonging.
Impact:
The Animals’ rendition of “Bring It On Home To Me” was a pivotal moment in the evolution of rock and roll. It helped bridge the gap between American soul and British rock, influencing artists like The Rolling Stones and Led Zeppelin. The song remains a powerful testament to the raw emotional core of rock and roll, even decades after its release.