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The Animals were a pivotal English rhythm and blues band formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in the early 1960s, achieving international fame as part of the British Invasion. Formed in Newcastle (1962) by Eric Burdon, Alan Price, Hilton Valentine, Chas Chandler, and John Steel. Gained fame with gritty R&B covers and originals. Key member Eric Burdon provided distinctive vocals. Achieved massive success with 'House of the Rising Sun' (1964). Underwent significant lineup changes throughout the 1960s, evolving their sound. Disbanded initially in the late 1960s but experienced numerous reunions and reformations with varying members.

• The original lineup dissolved rapidly after initial success, partly due to disputes over songwriting credits and royalties, particularly concerning Alan Price's name being solely listed on 'House of the Rising Sun' arrangements despite band collaboration.
• Bassist Chas Chandler left in 1966 to manage Jimi Hendrix, playing a crucial role in launching Hendrix's career.
• Eric Burdon later formed a radically different, psychedelic band called Eric Burdon and The Animals (or sometimes just Eric Burdon & The Animals) in 1966, featuring American musicians and a much heavier, experimental sound.
• The band faced numerous legal battles over the years regarding the rights to the name "The Animals" during various reunion attempts involving different combinations of original members.
• Despite their relatively short initial run with the classic lineup, their raw, driving interpretation of American blues and R&B had a profound influence on the development of hard rock and the British blues boom.