About the song
The Animals’ “House of the Rising Sun,” released in 1964, is a timeless classic that has solidified the band’s reputation as one of the most influential groups in the history of rock and roll. The song’s haunting melody, coupled with Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals and the band’s energetic performance, has made it a cultural touchstone.
“House of the Rising Sun” is a traditional folk song that tells the tale of a young woman who is seduced by the temptations of the city and ultimately falls into a life of sin and despair. The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid imagery and a sense of foreboding, as the narrator recounts the tragic fate of the young woman.
Musically, “House of the Rising Sun” is a powerful and emotive rock and roll song that showcases The Animals’ songwriting and musicianship. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Burdon’s vocals and the band’s instrumental accompaniment to take center stage. The song’s repetitive melody and Burdon’s haunting vocals create a sense of melancholy and despair.
Beyond its commercial success, “House of the Rising Sun” has become a cultural touchstone, influencing countless artists and cementing The Animals’ legacy as pioneers of British Invasion rock. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level. As we listen to “House of the Rising Sun” today, we are reminded of the power of music to evoke powerful emotions and the enduring legacy of The Animals’ artistry.
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Lyrics
There is a house in New Orleans
They call The Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one
My mother was a tailor
She sewed my new blue jeans
My father was a gamblin’ man
Down in New Orleans
Now the only thing a gambler needs
Is a suitcase and a trunk
And the only time he’s satisfied
Is when he’s on a trump
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
Well, I got one foot on the platform
The other foot on the train
I’m goin’ back to New Orleans
To wear that ball and chain
Well, there is a house in New Orleans
They call The Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m one