We have a collection of 19 arrangements for The Animals - House of the Rising Sun
What 1960s folk rock anthem about a New Orleans brothel became a defining song of the British Invasion? Learn!
Who's behind the notes? Discover The Animals: British Invasion Blues Pioneers
"The House of the Rising Sun" is a classic song by the British rock band The Animals. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Traditional Folk Song Origin: "The House of the Rising Sun" is actually a traditional folk song with roots in American music. The origins of the song are somewhat unclear, but it has been recorded by various artists under different titles since the early 20th century. The Animals' version is one of the most famous renditions.
Recording Time: The Animals recorded the song in just one take during a recording session in 1964. This was somewhat unusual for the time, as many songs required multiple takes and extensive editing.
Lengthy Intro: The song is known for its iconic and lengthy instrumental introduction, which features Alan Price's haunting organ melody. This intro is instantly recognizable and helped set the song apart from others of the era.
Chart Success: "The House of the Rising Sun" was a massive commercial success for The Animals. It reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States in 1964 and remained there for three weeks. It also topped the charts in the UK.
Timeless Appeal: The song's timeless quality is reflected in its enduring popularity. It has been covered by countless artists from various genres over the years, including Bob Dylan, Nina Simone, Dolly Parton, and Muse, among others.
Historic Lyrics: The lyrics of the song tell the story of a young person's life gone awry in the infamous house of ill repute known as the "House of the Rising Sun." The haunting lyrics and melody contribute to the song's enduring appeal.
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: In 1994, The Animals were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and "The House of the Rising Sun" was cited as one of their most significant contributions to the world of music.
Changing Lineup: The Animals went through several lineup changes over the years, but their classic lineup during the recording of "The House of the Rising Sun" included Eric Burdon on vocals, Alan Price on keyboards, Hilton Valentine on guitar, Chas Chandler on bass, and John Steel on drums.
Enduring Influence: The song's influence extends beyond the world of music. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture.
Preservation in the National Recording Registry: In 1999, the Library of Congress selected The Animals' rendition of "The House of the Rising Sun" for preservation in the National Recording Registry as a culturally, historically, and artistically significant recording.
These facts highlight the cultural significance and enduring popularity of The Animals' rendition of "The House of the Rising Sun." It remains a classic in the world of rock and folk music.