About The Song
Background
Released in early 1967, “When I Was Young” marked a pivotal moment for Eric Burdon & The Animals. It was the first single to feature the band’s new lineup, which included Eric Burdon on vocals, Barry Jenkins on drums, John Weider on guitar and violin, Vic Briggs on guitar, and Danny McCulloch on bass. The song’s genesis is rooted in the band’s collective songwriting efforts, with all five members contributing to its creation.
The track’s debut came on The Mike Douglas Show on February 21, 1967, where the band lip-synced to the song and “See See Rider.” This initial exposure, coupled with the song’s subsequent release, propelled “When I Was Young” to become a global hit.
Musical Style
“When I Was Young” represents a sonic departure from The Animals’ earlier R&B-infused sound. While the song retains the raw energy and emotional intensity that characterized the band’s music, it also incorporates elements of psychedelic rock and folk.
The instrumentation is rich and textured, with the interplay between guitars, bass, and drums creating a driving rhythm. Weider’s violin adds a haunting and melodic counterpoint, while Burdon’s vocals are delivered with a raw passion and emotional depth. The song’s arrangement is dynamic, building in intensity towards the powerful climax.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “When I Was Young” are a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the loss of innocence. Burdon’s evocative words paint a picture of youthful idealism and the disillusionment that comes with age. The song explores themes of mortality, regret, and the search for meaning in life.
The lyrics are characterized by their simplicity and directness, yet they resonate with a profound depth of emotion. Lines such as “I used to wonder what I was gonna be” and “I never thought I’d live to see the day” capture the universal experience of growing older and confronting life’s challenges.
Cultural Impact
“When I Was Young” became a massive commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to connect with audiences on a deep emotional level.
Beyond its chart success, the song has had a significant impact on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films and television shows, and has been covered by countless artists. The song’s message of loss and longing has resonated with generations of listeners, and it continues to be a relevant and powerful piece of music.
Conclusion
“When I Was Young” is more than just a song; it is a cultural touchstone that captures the essence of a generation. Eric Burdon & The Animals’ masterpiece is a testament to the power of music to evoke profound emotions and to transcend time. Through its evocative lyrics, innovative musical style, and enduring popularity, the song has secured its place in the pantheon of rock and roll classics.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
My father was a soldier then
And times were very hard
When I was young
When I was young
I smoked my first cigarette at ten
And for girls, I had a bad yen
And I had quite a ball
When I was young
When I was young, it was more important
Pain more pain
But I laughed a much louder, yeah
When I was young
When I was young
I met my first love at thirteen
She was brown and I was pretty green
And I learned quite a lot when I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young, it was more important
Pain more painful
Laughed a much louder, yeah
When I was young
When I was young
My faith was so much stronger then
I believed in fellow man
And I was so much older then
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young
When I was young