How “House Of The Rising Sun” by The Animals Became a 1960s Folk-Rock Anthem

When The Animals released “House Of The Rising Sun” in 1964, few expected a traditional folk song to transform into a global rock phenomenon. Yet that’s exactly what happened. With its haunting organ riff, raw guitar tones, and frontman Eric Burdon’s soul-stirring vocals, the song became a chart-topping hit that echoed across continents and generations.

The song’s narrative—a cautionary tale of sin and sorrow set in a New Orleans brothel—was brought to life like never before through the band’s dramatic interpretation. Their version not only soared to the top of the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100, but it also helped usher in a new era of rock storytelling rooted in folk tradition.

𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐀𝐧𝐢𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐬 – 𝐇𝐨𝐮𝐬𝐞 𝐎𝐟 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐧

“House Of The Rising Sun” is actually a traditional American folk song with origins that date back to the 18th century.

The Animals’ 1964 version is widely considered the definitive take, although earlier versions were recorded by artists like Woody Guthrie, Lead Belly, and Bob Dylan.

The band recorded the song in just one take, a rarity in music production—even back then!

The single became the first British Invasion hit recorded in a minor key, adding to its eerie and emotional power.

The iconic organ solo was played by Alan Price, whose haunting tone became synonymous with the track.

The song was so influential, it led Bob Dylan to stop performing his own version live—he felt The Animals’ rendition outshone his.

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