The Animals' Top 10 Songs, Ranked

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The Animals, one of the greatest British bands of the 1960s, hailed from Newcastle and established a gritty, blues-infused sound that balanced tough, rock-edged pop singles with rhythm-and-blues-oriented album material. Despite lineup changes over the years, the band's initial burst of creativity remains their most celebrated period, with hits like "The House of the Rising Sun," "Don't Bring Me Down," and "It's My Life." The Animals continue to perform today in various incarnations, showcasing the enduring appeal of their music.

Why it matters

The Animals were a key part of the British Invasion that swept the US in the 1960s, helping to introduce American audiences to the raw energy and blues-influenced sound of British rock. Their music continues to resonate with fans, and the band's evolution over the years demonstrates the lasting impact they've had on the world of rock and roll.

The details

Spinning off from the Alan Price Rhythm and Blues Combo, The Animals quickly established a gritty, blues-infused sound that balanced tough, rock-edged pop singles with rhythm-and-blues-oriented album material. Despite lineup changes, with Eric Burdon initiating changes and rebranding the group as Eric Burdon and The Animals, they continued to release music for a couple of years, adding four albums to their discography before disbanding in 1969. Various incarnations of the band have reformed over the years, even achieving some comeback success.

• The Animals were formed in the early 1960s in Newcastle, England.
• The band's original lineup didn't last long, with Eric Burdon initiating changes and rebranding the group as Eric Burdon and The Animals.
• The Animals eventually disbanded in 1969, though various incarnations reformed over the years.