ERIC BURDON of
the Animals
at Treasure Chest Concert, July 3, 2000
(Photograph by Robert Freeman)
Three humorous stories Eric Burdon told me backstage:
1. Eric was appearing in Seattle and had some free time
one night.
He visited a karaoke bar and watched the performances. No one knew
who he was, so he decided to join in. He got on stage and sang
"House of the Rising Sun." When he was through, the patrons
applauded the unknown singer. The manager came over and
told Eric "Good job. Come back tomorrow night and
I'll give you a couple of free drinks!"
2. Eric loves New Orleans and visits as often as he can.
One night
rather late he went to the all-night Hummingbird Grill on St. Charles
Avenue for a bite. He sat at the counter and placed his order. Then he
checked out the jukebox and played "House of the Rising Sun" and
sang along with it as he waited for his meal. A drunk down the counter
yelled out "Hey buddy, would ya stop singing? I'm trying to listen
to the song!"
3. I asked Eric if they REALLY liked those Beatle haircuts
all the groups wore back in the 60's.
"Hell no," he said, "we had to iron our hair before every
show!"