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"The House of the Rising Sun" is a classic rock song by the English rock band The Animals, released in 1964. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the band:
Traditional Folk Song Origin: "The House of the Rising Sun" is based on a traditional folk song that dates back to the 19th century. It has been covered by various artists over the years, but The Animals' version is one of the most famous and enduring renditions.
Distinctive Organ Sound: The song is known for its distinctive organ sound played by the band's keyboardist, Alan Price. The haunting organ melody is a defining element of the track and contributes to its unique atmosphere.
Quick Recording: The Animals recorded "The House of the Rising Sun" in just one take during a recording session. This was somewhat unusual for the time, but the band's raw and powerful performance made it work.
Chart-Topping Success: The song was a massive commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and staying there for three weeks. It also topped the charts in the UK.
Lengthy Career: The Animals formed in 1963 and disbanded in 1966, but they experienced considerable success in that short period. Their hit songs, including "The House of the Rising Sun," continue to be celebrated and played on the radio to this day.
Influence on Rock Music: The Animals' rendition of the song had a significant impact on the development of rock music. It's often considered a key example of the British Invasion sound that swept the United States in the mid-1960s.
Controversial Lyrics: The lyrics of "The House of the Rising Sun" have been the subject of debate and interpretation. The song tells the story of a person's life gone astray in New Orleans' French Quarter, often associated with a house of ill repute. This subject matter was controversial at the time but added to the song's mystique.
Legacy: The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Bob Dylan, Dolly Parton, and Muse, among others. It remains a classic of rock music and is often included in lists of the greatest songs ever recorded.
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 1994, The Animals were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing their significant contribution to the music industry.
"The House of the Rising Sun" by The Animals is an iconic track that continues to resonate with music fans and remains a cornerstone of rock history.