The Animals

The Animals The Animals were a British rock band from Newcastle upon Tyne, formed in 1963, known for their gritty R&B sound and Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals. Original lineup: Burdon (vocals), Alan Price (keyboards), Hilton Valentine (guitar), Chas Chandler (bass), and John Steel (drums). Signed to EMI, their breakthrough was a raw cover of “House of the Rising Sun” (1964, No. 1 US and UK), an epic folk-blues arrangement that sold millions and influenced rock. Hits followed: “I’m Crying,” “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” “Bring It On Home to Me,” and “We Gotta Get Out of This Place.” Price left in 1965 for solo success; the band evolved through lineup changes (including Barry Jenkins on drums). Burdon shifted to psychedelic with Eric Burdon & the Animals (“Monterey,” “Sky Pilot”). They disbanded in 1966, reformed variably in the 1970s–2000s. Chandler managed Jimi Hendrix; Valentine and Steel pursued other paths. Burdon continues touring into his 80s. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1994), The Animals bridged blues, R&B, and British Invasion with raw energy and social commentary.