About The Song
Released in 1964, “House of the Rising Sun” is a classic rock song performed by the English band The Animals. The song’s lyrics, which are adapted from a traditional folk song, tell the story of a young man who is corrupted by the temptations of a sinful life. The narrator recalls his experiences in the titular “house of the rising sun,” a place associated with gambling, drinking, and debauchery. The song’s haunting melody and Eric Burdon’s powerful vocals have made it a timeless rock anthem.
The song’s arrangement features a driving bassline, a steady drumbeat, and a distinctive organ riff that provides a melancholy undertone. Burdon’s vocals, with their raw intensity and emotional depth, capture the narrator’s regret and despair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a life gone astray, with references to “gambling men,” “drinking women,” and “a mother’s tears.” The song’s chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “Oh, mother, don’t make me leave,” conveys the narrator’s longing for redemption and his desire to escape the cycle of sin.
“House of the Rising Sun” was a huge commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and number three on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s popularity helped to establish The Animals as one of the leading bands of the British Invasion. Over the years, “House of the Rising Sun” has been covered by countless artists, including The Doors, Joan Baez, and Led Zeppelin. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless themes of temptation, regret, and the search for meaning in life.
One of the factors contributing to the song’s enduring popularity is the versatility of its interpretation. While the lyrics clearly depict a cautionary tale about the dangers of vice, the song can also be seen as a more universal exploration of human nature. The narrator’s experiences can be interpreted as a metaphor for the struggles and temptations that people face in their own lives. The song’s open-ended nature allows listeners to connect with its themes on a personal level, making it a relevant and resonant piece of music even today.
Additionally, the song’s musical arrangement is both simple and effective. The driving rhythm and repetitive structure create a sense of urgency and tension, while the organ riff adds a touch of melancholy. Burdon’s vocals are a powerful force, conveying the narrator’s emotions with raw honesty. The combination of these elements results in a song that is both catchy and thought-provoking.
In conclusion, “House of the Rising Sun” is a classic rock song that has stood the test of time. Its timeless themes, powerful lyrics, and memorable melody have made it a beloved anthem for generations of music fans. The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to the power of music to connect with people on a deep emotional level.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
They call the Rising Sun
And it’s been the ruin of many a poor boy
And God, I know I’m oneMy mother was a tailor
She sewed my new blue jeans
My father was a gamblin’ man
Down in New OrleansNow the only thing a gambler needs
Is a suitcase and a trunk
And the only time he’s satisfied
Is when he’s all drunkOh mother, tell your children
Not to do what I have done
Spend your lives in sin and misery
In the House of the Rising SunWell, 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