About This Footage
This 1964 footage of The Animals performing "The House of the Rising Sun" is a rare gem, offering a glimpse into the evolution of folk rock and the band's innovative approach to music at the time.
In 1964, The Animals were on tour with Chuck Berry, but they wanted to differentiate themselves from the straight rock acts that always closed their sets with familiar numbers. They chose "The House of the Rising Sun", a traditional folk song collected in Appalachia in the 1930s, but likely rooted in English folk music. This song, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics, was an unlikely choice for a rock band, but The Animals' arrangement brought a new level of energy and intensity to the classic tune.
This footage is notable not only because it captures The Animals performing one of their most iconic songs, but also because it highlights the band's willingness to experiment with traditional folk music. At this time, The Animals were still finding their sound, having just released their debut album "The Animals" in 1964. Their lead singer, Eric Burdon, had heard Johnny Handle perform the song at a club in Newcastle, England, and was immediately drawn to its haunting melody.
The fact that The Animals recorded "The House of the Rising Sun" in a small studio, De Lane Lea Studios on Kingsway in London, adds to the clip's significance. This intimate setting allowed the band to capture their raw energy and emotion, making for a compelling performance that still resonates today.
This footage is also significant because it shows The Animals' commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds. In an era where rock music was dominated by straight-laced, guitar-driven bands, The Animals were willing to take risks and incorporate traditional folk elements into their music. This approach paid off, as "The House of the Rising Sun" became a number one hit on the UK Singles Chart and in the US and Canada.
Watching this footage, viewers will gain insight into the creative process behind one of rock's most iconic songs. They'll see The Animals' raw energy and emotion, and understand why their arrangement of "The House of the Rising Sun" was so groundbreaking at the time. This clip is a must-see for anyone interested in the evolution of folk rock and the innovative spirit of 1960s music.
Johnny Handle's influence on Eric Burdon cannot be overstated. His performance of "The House of the Rising Sun" at a club in Newcastle, England, sparked something in Burdon, who was drawn to the song's haunting melody. This chance encounter highlights the power of traditional folk music to inspire and influence rock musicians.
In conclusion, this 1964 footage of The Animals performing "The House of the Rising Sun" is a rare and significant clip that offers a glimpse into the evolution of folk rock. It showcases the band's innovative approach to music, their willingness to experiment with traditional folk elements, and their commitment to pushing boundaries.
Curated from public records and music databases.
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