The Animals were an English rock band of the 1960s, formed in Newcastle upon Tyne. The original lineup featured Eric Burdon (vocals), John Steel (drums), Hilton Valentine (guitar), and Chas Chandler (bass). The group is most famous for their top-five hit single “House of the Rising Sun” along with other popular songs like “We’ve Gotta Get Out of this Place” and “It’s My Life”.

Early Years The Animals were formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1962, with Eric Burdon as lead singer and Chas Chandler as bassist and manager. They were joined by Hilton Valentine on guitar and John Steel on drums. The band was heavily influenced by rhythm and blues music, particularly that of Chuck Berry and Little Richard. They signed a contract with Columbia Records and released their first single, “Baby Let Me Take You Home” in 1964.

Breakthrough Success The Animals’ breakthrough came with the single “House of the Rising Sun”, which reached number one on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1964. The song was originally recorded by folk singer Woody Guthrie, but it was the Animals' version that achieved mainstream success. The song was also featured on their debut album, The Animals. The band followed up with another successful single, “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” which reached number two on the UK singles chart in 1965.Later Career The band released several more albums in the 1960s including Animal Tracks (1965) and Animalisms (1966). In 1967 they disbanded following Eric Burdon’s departure to form the Eric Burdon Band. The remaining members reunited briefly in 1977 for an album and tour before splitting again. In 1983, they reunited again for the album Ark and toured extensively throughout the 1980s and 1990s.

Legacy The Animals are remembered as one of the most influential British bands of the 1960s, having helped to shape the sound of rock music for generations to come. They have been cited as an influence by many artists including Jimi Hendrix, Van Morrison, Neil Young, and Tina Turner. Their seminal song “House of the Rising Sun” has been covered countless times by other artists.

Original co-founder and drummer, John Steel joins us this week to share the story of his amazing musical journey.

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