About the song
The Animals’ “It’s My Life” stands as a testament to the raw power and rebellious spirit of 1960s rock music. Released in October 1965, this track showcases the distinctive sound and attitude that made The Animals a cornerstone of the British Invasion. Written by the accomplished songwriting duo Roger Atkins and Carl D’Errico, “It’s My Life” was produced by the legendary Mickie Most and featured on the compilation album “The Best of The Animals,” which compiled the band’s greatest hits.
From the opening notes, “It’s My Life” grabs the listener with its driving rhythm and Eric Burdon’s gritty, soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics are a bold declaration of independence and defiance, resonating deeply with the youth of the era who were eager to break free from societal expectations and carve out their own paths. Burdon’s delivery of lines like “It’s my life and I’ll do what I want” and “It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want” captures the essence of a generation pushing back against conformity.
The track’s success was immediate and widespread. It reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart and climbed to No. 23 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States. Its infectious energy and message of self-empowerment made it an anthem for those embracing the cultural shifts of the 1960s. The combination of Hilton Valentine’s jangly guitar riff, Chas Chandler’s solid bassline, John Steel’s driving drums, and Dave Rowberry’s vibrant keyboards created a sound that was both raw and polished, a hallmark of The Animals’ style.
“It’s My Life” also marked a significant moment in the band’s career. By this time, The Animals had already achieved considerable success with hits like “The House of the Rising Sun” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood.” This song, however, reinforced their image as champions of the underdog and voices of the rebellious youth. It was a departure from their earlier blues-influenced sound, incorporating more elements of rock and pop, which broadened their appeal and cemented their place in rock history.
The song’s enduring appeal is a testament to its powerful message and the exceptional talents of The Animals. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the timeless anthem of individuality and self-determination. For older listeners, “It’s My Life” is a nostalgic reminder of an era of profound cultural change, while for new audiences, it continues to inspire with its bold declaration of personal freedom.
In essence, “It’s My Life” is more than just a song; it’s a statement of intent and a celebration of the human spirit’s resilience and desire for autonomy. The Animals captured lightning in a bottle with this track, creating a piece of music that transcends its time and continues to resonate across generations.
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Lyrics
It’s a hard world to get a break in
All the good things have been taken
But girl, there are ways to make certain things pay
Though I’m dressed in these rags
I’ll wear sable some day
Hear what I say
I’m gonna ride that serpent
No more time spent
Sweatin’ rent
Hear my command
I’m breakin’ loose
And ain’t no use
Holdin’ me down
Stick around
But baby (Baby)
Remember (Remember)
It’s my life and I’ll do what I want
It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want
Show me I’m wrong
Hurt me sometime
But some day I’ll treat you real fine
There’ll be women and their fortunes
Who just want to mother orphans
Are you gonna cry while I’m squeezin’ them dry?
Takin’ all I can get, no regrets
When I openly lie
And live on their money
Believe me, honey
That money
Can you believe I ain’t no saint?
No complaints
So girl, throw out any doubt
And baby (Baby)
Remember (Remember)
It’s my life and I’ll do what I want
It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want
Show me I’m wrong
Hurt me sometime
But some day I’ll treat you real fine
Don’t push it
(It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want)
It’s my life
Can’t get to do what I want
(It’s my mind and I’ll think what I want)
You can’t tell me
(It’s my life and I’ll do what I want)
It’s my mind