“It’s My Life,” released in 1964, is a raw, powerful anthem of self-determination by British invasion rock group The Animals. Formed in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1962, The Animals, fronted by the gritty vocals of Eric Burdon, were known for their blues-rock sound and impassioned delivery. While they achieved significant success with their cover of “House of the Rising Sun,” “It’s My Life” showcased a different side of the band, their ability to deliver original material imbued with a similar energy and social commentary.
The song, written by Brill Building songwriters Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, resonated with a generation grappling with changing social norms and asserting their independence. While “It’s My Life” didn’t achieve the chart-topping success of “House of the Rising Sun,” peaking at number 23 on the Billboard Hot 100, it became a significant album track on their second American album, “Animal Tracks,” and cemented its place as a quintessential garage rock classic. Its influence stretched beyond the charts, resonating deeply within the counter-culture movement.
Lyrically, “It’s My Life” is a declaration of independence. It’s a defiant rejection of societal expectations and a staunch defense of individual choice. The lyrics, “It’s my life and I’ll do what I want/It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want,” capture the spirit of youthful rebellion and the yearning for autonomy. This message, delivered with Burdon’s characteristic growl, gave voice to a generation eager to break free from the constraints of tradition.
Contemporary audiences embraced the song’s message of self-ownership. While critical reviews at the time often focused on The Animals’ blues influences and powerful performance style, the song’s underlying theme of individual freedom clearly resonated with listeners. “It’s My Life” transcended the realm of simple entertainment and became an anthem for those seeking to define their own paths, solidifying its enduring legacy within rock and roll history. Its influence can still be heard echoing in countless artists who have followed in The Animals’ footsteps.
