The Animals: Did You Know?

Fun Facts & Lesser-Known Stories About The Animals

The Animals are one of the most influential British Invasion bands of the 1960s, known for their gritty blues-rock sound and soulful covers of American R&B songs. With hits like “House of the Rising Sun” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” they carved out a space in music history. While their music has endured, there are many intriguing and lesser-known stories about this legendary group. Let’s dive into some fun facts and untold stories about The Animals that even dedicated fans might not know!

1. The Band’s Original Name Was Much Less Exciting

Before they were known as The Animals, the band went by the rather unremarkable name The Alan Price Combo, named after their original keyboardist. The name change came after Eric Burdon, the band’s iconic lead singer, joined the group. The name “The Animals” was inspired by Burdon’s fascination with a tough, hard-edged gang from Newcastle. The name reflected their raw and primal sound, perfectly fitting the energy and intensity of their performances.

2. "House of the Rising Sun" Was Recorded in One Take

One of the most remarkable facts about The Animals’ hit “House of the Rising Sun” is that the band recorded it in just one take. In May 1964, during a short studio session in London, the band knocked out the now-iconic track in a single, four-minute performance. There was no overdubbing or extra studio magic involved—it was a raw, live recording. Despite the song’s length, which was unusually long for a single at the time, it became a massive hit and topped the charts in both the UK and the US. This spontaneity added to the authenticity and haunting quality of the track, making it one of the most memorable songs of the decade.

3. Their Controversial American Tour

When The Animals first arrived in America in 1964, they were immediately caught up in the frenzy of the British Invasion. However, the band’s raw, rebellious energy clashed with the more polished and controlled image expected in the U.S. music scene at the time. Eric Burdon in particular was outspoken and wild, which didn’t sit well with some American promoters. During their tour, there were moments of tension, including a famous incident where Burdon trashed a hotel room—an act that foreshadowed the destructive rock-and-roll behavior that would become common in later decades.

4. The Band’s Link to Jimi Hendrix

Chas Chandler, the bassist for The Animals, played a crucial role in the discovery and rise of legendary guitarist Jimi Hendrix. After The Animals broke up in 1966, Chandler transitioned into music management. On a trip to New York, he saw Hendrix perform at the Café Wha? in Greenwich Village and was blown away. Chandler became Hendrix’s manager and helped him form the Jimi Hendrix Experience, guiding the young guitarist to superstardom. Without Chandler’s keen eye, the world may have never seen Hendrix’s incredible rise to fame.

5. "We Gotta Get Out of This Place" Was Almost Recorded by Another Band

One of The Animals’ biggest hits, “We Gotta Get Out of This Place”, was actually written by American songwriters Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil. Initially, it was meant for another group, but when The Animals heard the demo, they insisted on recording it themselves. The song’s lyrics about wanting to escape a tough life resonated with working-class audiences, particularly in the UK. The song became an anthem for disillusioned youth and was especially popular among American soldiers serving in the Vietnam War, who felt the lyrics reflected their own desire to escape the conflict.

6. Eric Burdon’s Love for Blues Began Early

Eric Burdon, the gravelly-voiced frontman of The Animals, grew up in Newcastle, England, in the midst of a burgeoning music scene. His love for American blues and R&B started at a young age when he listened to Ray Charles, John Lee Hooker, and Bo Diddley records, which were rare to find in post-war England. Burdon’s passion for this music shaped The Animals’ sound, as the band became known for their authentic covers of American blues songs. Burdon later went on to form Eric Burdon & The Animals, continuing to explore his deep love for blues and soul.

7. They Were the First British Band to Cover Nina Simone

The Animals were pioneers in introducing British audiences to American R&B and soul music, and one of their most memorable covers was “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” a song originally performed by jazz and blues legend Nina Simone. Released in 1965, The Animals’ version of the song was a rockier, edgier take on Simone’s soulful original. Their cover became a massive hit and has since been covered by numerous artists, solidifying its place as a classic.

8. They Inspired Bruce Springsteen

Bruce Springsteen, one of the most iconic rock musicians of all time, has credited The Animals as one of his biggest influences. In his 2012 keynote speech at SXSW, Springsteen specifically mentioned how songs like “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” and “It’s My Life” shaped his songwriting. He admired how The Animals’ music reflected the struggles of working-class life, a theme that would become central to his own work. Springsteen said that The Animals were one of the reasons he picked up a guitar in the first place.

9. They Were Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

In 1994, The Animals were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a recognition of their massive influence on rock music. Their unique blend of gritty blues and rock, combined with Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals, set them apart from other British Invasion bands. Despite internal conflicts and lineup changes, The Animals’ contribution to rock history, especially with tracks like “House of the Rising Sun” and “We Gotta Get Out of This Place,” secured their place in the pantheon of greats.

10. Eric Burdon’s Ongoing Legacy

Although The Animals officially disbanded in 1966, Eric Burdon continued to perform and release music under the banner of Eric Burdon & The Animals and as a solo artist. He has also collaborated with various artists, including WAR, with whom he recorded the hit song “Spill the Wine.” Burdon’s voice remains one of the most iconic in rock history, and his passion for music has endured well into his later years, making him one of the most respected figures in the rock and blues world.

From their raw bluesy roots to their influence on future generations of rock musicians, The Animals remain a band whose legacy continues to shape modern music. Their willingness to break the mold and deliver emotionally charged performances made them stand out during the British Invasion, and their timeless tracks still resonate today. Whether through their connection to Jimi Hendrix or Bruce Springsteen’s admiration, The Animals' impact is undeniable and continues to inspire musicians around the world. One of The Animals’ most meaningful song lyrics comes from their hit “House of the Rising Sun”:

"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 Sun."

This lyric captures the essence of regret, warning, and sorrow. It’s a haunting reflection on the consequences of a life lived in sin and despair, making it one of the most emotionally charged and timeless lines in rock history. The song's protagonist pleads for others to avoid the same fate, giving the song a sense of moral reckoning and deep emotional weight. This lyric, coupled with Eric Burdon’s powerful delivery, has made “House of the Rising Sun” one of the most iconic songs of its era.