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The Animals originated in Newcastle upon Tyne, England in 1962. Known for their gritty, bluesy sound and deep-voiced frontman Eric Burdon, they were part of the British Invasion of the US music scene. The band’s distinguished track record includes several hit singles, most notably “The House of the Rising Sun.” Over the years, The Animals experienced multiple line-up changes and disbandments, with their first incarnation dissolving in 1966. They have released numerous albums, achieving considerable chart success and critical acclaim.
Eric Burdon
Eric Burdon, as the lead vocalist and founding member of The Animals, joined the band at its inception in 1962. His deep, distinctive voice became a defining feature of the group’s sound. Burdon was a key figure throughout the band’s most famous period, contributing significantly to their major hits and classic albums like “The Animals” (1964), “Animal Tracks” (1965), and the seminal “House of the Rising Sun.” He was part of the band until its initial breakup in 1966. Post-The Animals, Burdon achieved success with the band War, particularly with their hit “Spill the Wine.” He also embarked on a solo career and has been involved in several Animals reunions.
Alan Price
Alan Price, the original keyboardist for The Animals, was with the band from 1962 to 1965. His organ playing was a crucial element of their early sound, especially notable in their hit “The House of the Rising Sun.” Price appears on their early albums, including “The Animals” and “Animal Tracks.” After leaving the band, he formed the Alan Price Set, achieving success with songs like “I Put a Spell on You.” His solo career also includes the soundtrack for the film “O Lucky Man!” for which he received critical acclaim.
Chas Chandler
Bassist Chas Chandler was a part of The Animals from their beginning in 1962 until their initial breakup in 1966. He played on all the early albums, contributing to the band’s gritty, blues-infused sound. After The Animals, Chandler became known as a music manager and producer, most notably for discovering and managing Jimi Hendrix. His production work on Hendrix’s early albums, including “Are You Experienced,” has been widely celebrated.
Hilton Valentine
Guitarist Hilton Valentine joined The Animals in 1962 and was a part of the original lineup. His guitar riff in “The House of the Rising Sun” is one of the most iconic in rock history. Valentine played on the band’s early albums, helping to shape their distinctive sound. After the band’s breakup, Valentine had a solo career and later participated in various Animals reunions. He also explored different musical genres, including skiffle, a style he was passionate about.
John Steel
Drummer John Steel was a founding member of The Animals, joining in 1962. His drumming was integral to the band’s rhythm section on albums like “The Animals” and “Animal Tracks.” Steel left the band in 1966 but returned when the band reformed later. He has been involved in various versions of The Animals since then and has been a constant presence in the band’s later iterations.
Dave Rowberry
Dave Rowberry replaced Alan Price as the keyboardist in 1965. He played on later albums such as “Animalisms” (1966). His tenure with the band was marked by a shift in their sound, incorporating more psychedelic elements. After The Animals, Rowberry worked with various artists and bands, though he did not achieve the same level of fame as his time with The Animals.
Barry Jenkins
Barry Jenkins joined The Animals in 1966, replacing John Steel on drums. He was part of the band’s later era and played on albums like “Animalism” and “Love Is” (1968). Jenkins continued with Eric Burdon in the band Eric Burdon and The Animals, contributing to their psychedelic and progressive rock sound. After The Animals, Jenkins played with several other groups but remained most famous for his work with The Animals and Eric Burdon.
Danny McCulloch
Danny McCulloch, joining as the bassist in 1966 during the later phase of The Animals, played on albums like “Winds of Change” (1967) and “Every One of Us” (1968). His tenure coincided with the band’s exploration of psychedelic rock. Post-The Animals, McCulloch had a brief solo career and worked with various musicians, though he did not attain significant success outside the band.
Vic Briggs
Vic Briggs joined the band in 1966 as a guitarist and keyboardist, contributing to albums such as “Winds of Change.” His time with the band was during their more experimental phase. After leaving The Animals, Briggs shifted his focus to spirituality and changed his name to Antion Vikram Singh, becoming a teacher of Kundalini Yoga and a performer of Sikh sacred music.
Zoot Money
Zoot Money joined The Animals in 1983 as a keyboardist. This period saw the band explore a more contemporary sound, and Money’s contribution can be heard on the album “Ark” (1983). He also participated in the live album “Greatest Hits Live (Rip It to Shreds)” (1984).
Steve Grant
Steve Grant joined The Animals in the 1980s, contributing as a guitarist, synthesizer player, and backing vocalist. His involvement came during the band’s revival phase when they were experimenting with a more updated sound. Grant played on “Ark” (1983) and was part of the live performances that resulted in the “Greatest Hits Live (Rip It to Shreds)” album in 1984.
Steve Gregory
Steve Gregory was part of The Animals during their 1980s resurgence, playing the saxophone. His addition brought a unique element to the band’s sound, aligning with the era’s musical trends. Gregory’s saxophone work added a new layer to The Animals’ music, especially during live performances. His career outside The Animals included session work and collaborations with various artists, showcasing his versatility as a saxophonist.
Eric Burdon And The Animals Band Members
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Complete List Of The Animals Band Members article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2023
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