Bio: The Animals

Love Me Do brings you the story of Newcastle’s The Animals, part of the British Invasion with hits like Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood and House of the Rising Sun.

The Animals are one of the unique groups of the British Invasion, known for their gritty blues-based sound and powerful performances. Originating from Newcastle upon Tyne in the North-East of England in the early 1960s, they have left a lasting legacy in rock and blues music. Here’s a brief history of The Animals.

Early Years of The Animals

The Animals were formed in 1962 by Eric Burdon (vocals), Alan Price (keyboards), Hilton Valentine (guitar), Chas Chandler (bass), and John Steel (drums). The group members had been involved in the local music scene before coming together, drawn by their shared love of American blues and R&B. Their name, The Animals, reflected their wild stage presence and raw energy.

Breakthrough of The Animals (1964-1966)

The Animals’ breakthrough came with the release of their version of the traditional folk song The House of the Rising Sun in 1964. Their rendition, characterized by Eric Burdon’s deep, soulful voice and Alan Price’s haunting organ riff, became a massive hit, topping the charts in both the UK and the US. The song’s success established The Animals as major players in the British Invasion.

Their debut LP, The Animals (1964), included their hit and rock classics like Chuck Berry’s Around and Around and Memphis, Tennessee. The group’s raw, bluesy sound and powerful performances set them apart from their contemporaries. They followed up with a series of successful singles, including Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood and We Gotta Get Out of This Place, which became anthems of the 1960s.

Lineup Changes and Continued Success (1966-1968)

The mid-1960s saw significant changes in The Animals’ lineup. Alan Price left the group in 1965 to go solo, and was replaced by Dave Rowberry on keyboards. Despite the changes, The Animals continued to release successful music and tour extensively. Their LP Animalization (1966) included hits like Don’t Bring Me Down and Inside–Looking Out, alongside more rock and blues classics such as I Put a Spell on You and Sweet Little Sixteen.

In 1966, the original lineup disbanded, and Eric Burdon formed a new version of the group, known as Eric Burdon & The Animals. This new lineup embraced a more psychedelic and experimental sound, reflected in LPs like Winds of Change (1967) and The Twain Shall Meet (1968). Hits from this period included San Franciscan Nights and Sky Pilot.

Hiatus and Reunions (1969-1984)

Eric Burdon & The Animals disbanded in 1969, and Burdon went on to pursue a solo career. The original members of The Animals reunited briefly in 1975 and again in 1983, releasing new LPs and going on tour. These reunions were marked by a return to their blues roots and celebrated the group’s legacy.

The Animals: Legacy and Influence

The Animals’ influence on rock and blues music is significant. Their gritty, blues-based sound and powerful performances inspired countless musicians and groups. Songs like The House of the Rising Sun and We Gotta Get Out of This Place remain timeless classics that continue to resonate with audiences.

The group’s legacy is celebrated through various tributes, documentaries, and live performances. They were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994, recognizing their contributions to popular music.

Conclusion

The Animals’ journey from a Newcastle blues group to international rock stars is a testament to their talent, passion, and enduring appeal. With a career spanning over six decades, they have left an indelible mark on the history of rock and blues music. Their powerful performances, gritty sound, and timeless hits continue to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring that The Animals remain an essential part of the rock music canon.