About the song
The Animals – House of the Rising Sun
A Folk Rock Anthem for the Ages
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of 1960s Newcastle, England, The Animals emerged as one of the most influential bands of the British Invasion. Their music, a potent blend of rock, blues, and R&B, resonated with audiences worldwide, and their legacy continues to inspire generations of musicians. Among their most enduring and recognizable hits is the timeless folk rock ballad, “House of the Rising Sun.”
Released in 1964, “House of the Rising Sun” quickly captivated listeners with its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and Eric Burdon’s impassioned vocals. The song’s origins can be traced back to traditional folk ballads, with some suggesting inspiration from the Appalachian folk song “Rising Sun.” However, The Animals infused the song with their own distinct energy, transforming it into a rock anthem that captured the spirit of the era.
A Lyrical Journey into Mystery and Regret
“House of the Rising Sun” paints a vivid picture of a young man’s descent into despair and regret. The opening lines, “There is a house in New Orleans / They call the Rising Sun / And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy / And I’m one of them, son,” set the stage for a tale of temptation, addiction, and lost innocence. The narrator recounts his fateful decision to enter the house, a place of sin and indulgence, where he has squandered his youth and prospects.
The song’s lyrics are rich in symbolism, with the “House of the Rising Sun” serving as a metaphor for various interpretations. Some view it as a brothel or gambling den, while others see it as a more general representation of temptation and the destructive path it can lead one down. The rising sun, often associated with hope and new beginnings, takes on a more ominous tone in the context of the song, symbolizing the cyclical nature of the narrator’s entrapment and the elusiveness of escape.
A Musical Tapestry of Rock, Blues, and Folk
The Animals’ rendition of “House of the Rising Sun” is a masterclass in blending musical genres. The song opens with a harmonica riff that sets the melancholic tone, followed by Alan Price’s distinctive organ chords that provide a driving force throughout the track. Hilton Valentine’s piercing guitar licks add a touch of bluesy urgency, while the rhythm section of Chas Chandler on bass and John Steel on drums provides a solid foundation.
Eric Burdon’s vocals are the heart and soul of the song. His powerful and emotive delivery captures the desperation and regret of the narrator, drawing the listener into the depths of his despair. Burdon’s voice seamlessly transitions from hushed confessions to impassioned pleas, adding depth and dimension to the storytelling.
An Enduring Legacy and Cultural Impact
“House of the Rising Sun” quickly ascended to the top of the charts, reaching number one in both the UK and the US. The song’s success propelled The Animals into international stardom and solidified their place as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion. Their version of the song has become a cultural touchstone, covered by countless artists across various genres and featured in numerous films and television shows.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless themes of temptation, regret, and the human struggle against self-destruction. Its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and passionate vocals have captivated listeners for generations, cementing its place as one of the most iconic and influential rock anthems of all time. “House of the Rising Sun” is a testament to the power of music to transcend time and cultural boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music.
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Lyrics
“The House Of The Rising Sun”
There is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m oneMy mother was a tailor
She sewed my new blue jeans
My father was a gamblin’ man
Down in New OrleansNow the only thing a gambler needs
Is a suitcase and a trunk
And the only time he’s satisfied
Is when he’s all drunk[Organ Solo]
Oh mother, tell your children
Not to do what I have done
Spend your lives in sin and misery
In the House of the Rising SunWell, I got one foot on the platform
The other foot on the train
I’m goin’ back to New Orleans
To wear that ball and chainWell, there is a house in New Orleans
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one