The Meaning Behind The Song: I Used To Be An Animal by Eric Burdon
Table:
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I Used To Be An Animal | Eric Burdon | Michael George Jackson Clark, Geoffery “K.I.D.” Bastow & Eric Burdon | I Used to Be an Animal (1988) | 1988 | Pop | Steve Grant & Eric Burdon |
Eric Burdon’s song “I Used To Be An Animal” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey back to his early days as a musician. Through his lyrics, Burdon reflects on his youth, the wildness of the rock and roll scene, and the transformation he has undergone since then. This song is featured on his 1988 album titled “I Used to Be an Animal”.
The song begins with Burdon wanting to tell a story about a time when he and four other young guys were making music in Newcastle. They played Rhythm and Blues, not caring about the challenges they faced in the music industry. The reference to the Reeperbahn, a famous street in Hamburg, Germany where many bands started their careers, symbolizes their journey to success.
Burdon sings about the shock his music caused and how it marked a new era in rock. He acknowledges that he used to be an animal, someone who let their wild instincts guide them. However, as the song progresses, he mentions that he is now “alright” and has moved on from that phase.
The lyrics also touch upon notable events and influences from the past. Burdon mentions being children of war twenty years ago, possibly referring to his experiences growing up during World War II. He highlights the impact of music, specifically the Bo Diddley beat, on their lives. The rock and mod subcultures are also mentioned, emphasizing their connection to popular culture.
Burdon’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of the vibrant music scene of his youth. He describes a time when there were no limits, when they would dance and have a ball without worrying about the consequences. The references to “freaks and queens” and “love-ins and has-beens” capture the free-spirited atmosphere of the era. He also mentions iconic venues like the Whisky-a-gogo and the psychedelic explosion of the 1960s.
Personally, this song holds a special place in my heart. As a fan of Eric Burdon and the Animals, I have always admired the raw energy he brought to his performances. “I Used To Be An Animal” captures that same intensity and nostalgia. Whenever I listen to this song, it takes me back to a time when music was rebellious and transformative. It reminds me of the power of music to shape our identities and connect us to our past.
In conclusion, “I Used To Be An Animal” by Eric Burdon is a reflection on the early days of his musical career and the wildness of the rock and roll scene. Through his lyrics, Burdon pays homage to his roots and the influences that shaped him. This song serves as a reminder of the power of music to transport us to different times and evoke emotions. Whether you’re a fan of Eric Burdon or simply appreciate the history of rock and roll, “I Used To Be An Animal” is a must-listen.
