Fats Domino’S Impact On The Animals’ Music Style

March 20, 2025

It was the summer of 1964, and the world was buzzing with the sound of a new kind of music. The British Invasion was at its peak, and bands like The Beatles were capturing the hearts of millions. Yet, tucked away in a small studio in Newcastle, England, another band was about to take a different route, one where the rhythm of Fats Domino would leave an indelible mark. The Animals, a group of young musicians, had been drawn to the vibrant sounds of rhythm and blues, and none of them could resist the infectious melodies that poured from Fats Domino’s songs.

As lead singer Eric Burdon stepped into the studio one evening, he felt a wave of excitement mixed with nervousness. Fats Domino’s music had always made him feel alive, with its rich piano chords and catchy beats. “Ain’t That a Shame” and “Blueberry Hill” were more than just songs; they were a spark igniting the fire inside Burdon and his bandmates. They wanted to create something raw and powerful, music that would resonate with the struggles and joys of everyday life. Inspired by Fats’ ability to blend heartfelt storytelling with catchy hooks, The Animals decided to infuse their own sound with blues and rhythm, channeling the spirit of New Orleans into their rock music.

Their breakthrough came with the pulsating hit “House of the Rising Sun.” The song’s haunting melody and Burdon’s soulful voice captivated listeners, a testament to Fats Domino’s influence. Just as Fats had poured his heart into his music, The Animals did the same, each note dripping with emotion. The way they fused rock with blues made their sound unique, a bridge connecting the past with the present. Burdon often recalled how hearing Fats play made him realize that music could be more than just entertainment; it could be a powerful force for connection, capable of stirring emotions deep within the listener’s heart.

As fame swept over The Animals, they always gave credit to the greats who inspired them, especially Fats Domino. They understood that their success was built on the shoulders of giants. Fats had broken barriers during a time when segregation was common, showing the world that music could unite people regardless of their background. Burdon and his bandmates found strength in this legacy. They admired how Fats had faced adversity with resilience, and they wanted to echo that sentiment in their own careers, not just as artists, but as individuals.

The journey wasn’t always easy. There were challenges and setbacks along the way, but the music kept them going. Each time The Animals stepped on stage, they felt Fats’ spirit with them, urging them to be authentic and true to themselves. Through the struggles of fame and the pressures of the music industry, they remained committed to their roots, infusing rhythm and blues into their performances. The impact of Fats Domino was not just in the sound they created; it was a guiding light, teaching them that passion and perseverance could turn dreams into reality.

Looking back, Eric Burdon understood how crucial those initial inspirations had been. Fats Domino’s melody could still be heard in the chords they strummed, a reminder that music had the power to transcend time and borders. The Animals not only honored Fats through their music, but they also inspired a new generation of artists to pursue their passions, sharing the essential message that resilience and love for what you do can open doors to extraordinary possibilities. In the end, the rhythm of Fats Domino had not only influenced a band but had changed the course of music history, leaving an uplifting legacy that would resonate through the ages.