About the song
“House of the Rising Sun” is a haunting folk-rock song famously performed by The Animals and released in 1964. This rendition became one of the defining tracks of the 1960s and is often credited with bringing the traditional American folk song into the mainstream rock genre.
The song tells the story of a young man whose life has been ruined by gambling and vice in New Orleans. The lyrics convey a sense of sorrow and regret as the narrator warns others about the dangers of a life lived in excess. The “House of the Rising Sun” itself is often interpreted as a metaphor for a brothel or a place of ill repute, although its exact meaning has been the subject of much debate.
Musically, The Animals’ version is characterized by its distinctive organ riff, played by Alan Price, and Eric Burdon’s powerful, soulful vocals. The song features a minor key, which enhances its melancholic mood, and combines elements of rock, blues, and folk, setting it apart from other hits of the time.
Upon its release, “House of the Rising Sun” achieved commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and becoming a worldwide hit. The song’s unique sound and poignant storytelling helped it resonate with audiences across generations.
The Animals’ interpretation of “House of the Rising Sun” has since become iconic, influencing countless artists and cementing its status as a classic. Its enduring appeal continues to captivate listeners, making it a significant piece of music history.
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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.