Shortly after relocating to Greece during the pandemic in 2021, Eric Burdon started collaborating with Greek artists Alex Sid & Quasamodo on “Don’t Ever Leave,” which was featured in the Greek television drama Η Παραλία (The Shore/Paralia), in February 2024. During the recording, Burdon was struggling with some health issues and was hospitalized with pneumonia shortly after laying down vocals, coincidentally “mirroring the gravity of the song’s theme,” he says.
“In hindsight, it’s almost surreal to think about how closely my experience mirrored the emotion and intensity of the track,” says Burdon. “Despite the challenges, the collaborative process was a profound one, and I believe the authenticity of that moment shines through in the final product. It’s a testament to the power of music to transcend circumstances and connect us on a deeper level.”
“Don’t Ever Leave” was the first new recording from Burdon in more than a decade since ‘Til Your River Runs Dry in 2013, but it’s not his last. “I’ve been continuously writing and exploring new musical avenues allowing inspiration to guide me along the way,” the 83-year-old Burdon tells American Songwriter. “Writing remains an integral part of my creative expression, serving as a cathartic outlet for my thoughts, emotions, and experiences.”
Along with new music, he’s also ready to get back on stage—something he hasn’t done since touring in 2018 and a few shows in 2019—at the Fool in Love Fest in Inglewood, California in August 2024, alongside Diana Ross, Santana, Smokey Robinson, Lionel Richie, Al Green, and more. This year also marks the 60th anniversary of The Animals’ eponymous 1964 debut and hit “House of the Rising Sun,” which is being commemorated by a reissue of the band’s first four albums, along with a Retrospective compilation.
Burdon took time to chat with American Songwriter about reflections on his work with The Animals, War, and beyond, life in Greece, “introspective” songwriting, and why he’s still making music nearly 65 years later.
AS: Covers are nothing new for you, but since “Don’t Ever Leave” was written by Quasamodo and Alex Sid specifically for Η Παραλία, how were you able to find your connection to the song?
EB: Despite it being written specifically for the film, the context of the song, being crafted for a death scene, resonated profoundly with me. As we worked on the project together, I delved into the lyrics and melody and found myself drawn to its poignant narrative. The themes of loss, longing, and the transient nature of life struck a chord within me, particularly given my own health struggles at the time.
Navigating through the recording process, I channeled those emotions into my performance, allowing myself to fully inhabit the character and storyline of the song. It was a deeply immersive experience, one that blurred the lines between fiction and reality as I grappled with my own mortality while bringing the song to life.
In the end, my connection with “Don’t Ever Leave” transcended its origins and it became a deeply personal journey, reflective of my own experiences and emotions, ultimately enriching the collaborative process and infusing the final product with a raw authenticity.
AS: Thinking back to the ’60s and The Animals, and later on with War and your solo career, what is your connection to some of these older songs now?
EB: The songs from The Animals era evoke a sense of nostalgia, and nostalgia for me, serving as a reminder of the raw energy and passion of my youth. They also carry with them the spirit of rebellion and social consciousness that defined that era, themes that continue to resonate with me to this day. Similarly, my time with War brought about a fusion of musical styles and influences that captured the zeitgeist of the ’70s. The songs from that era, not only reflect the cultural landscape of their time but also serve as a testament to the power of music to unite people across boundaries.
As I transitioned into my solo career, I continued to draw upon these musical roots while exploring new sounds and genres. My connection to those older songs remains strong, as they serve as touchstones that anchor me to my musical heritage while also inspiring me to push the boundaries of creativity.
Each phase of my musical evolution represents a chapter in my life, marked by unique experiences, collaborations, and artistic growth. In essence, each song from my past represents a snapshot of a moment in time, encapsulating the emotions, experiences, and aspirations of both myself and the audience. They continue to hold a special place in my heart, serving as a reminder of the transformative power of music to transcend generations and connect us on a deeper level.
AS: With The Animals in particular, so many of these song were initially written for specific place and time. Which ones have taken on new meaning for you now?
EB: Certainly, there are several songs from my repertoire that resonate with me in entirely new and unexpected ways as time goes on. “House of the Rising Sun,” a signature track from my time with The Animals, has taken on deeper layers of meaning for me over the years. When I first recorded it in the ’60s, was a powerful expression of youthful rebellion and defiance. However, as I’ve matured and experienced life’s ups and downs, the song has come to represent something more profound—a reflection on the consequences of one’s choices and the passage of time.
Similarly, songs like “We Gotta Get Out of This Place” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” have taken on new significance as I’ve grown older. They now serve as reminders of the universal themes of longing, resilience, and the search for meaning that resonate with people of all ages and backgrounds.
As an artist, I’ve found that my interpretation of these songs continues to evolve with each passing year, reflecting my own personal journey and the changing dynamics of the world around me. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend time and speak to the human experience in all its complexity.
AS: You’ve been in this for nearly 65 years now. How is songwriting different for you now?
EB: Songwriting has evolved for me in many ways over the years, reflecting both personal growth and changes in the world around me. In my early days as a songwriter, the process was often fueled by raw emotion and a sense of urgency to express myself. Whether it was capturing the rebellious spirit of the ’60s with The Animals or addressing social and political issues with War, my songwriting was deeply rooted in the ethos of the times.
As I’ve matured as an artist, I’ve become more introspective in my approach to songwriting, drawing inspiration from a wider range of influences and experiences. Rather than simply reacting to external events, I strive to delve deeper into universal themes and emotions that resonate with people on a deeper level.
Additionally, collaboration has played an increasingly important role in my songwriting process. Working with other talented musicians and songwriters has allowed me to tap into new perspectives and ideas, enriching the creative process and pushing me to explore new musical territories.
Technology has also transformed the way I approach songwriting. With access to a wealth of digital tools and resources, I’m able to experiment with sounds and arrangements in ways that were unimaginable in the past. This has opened up new avenues for creativity and innovation, allowing me to push the boundaries of my musical expression.
Overall, while the essence of songwriting remains constant—a desire to connect with others through music—the process itself continues to evolve, reflecting the ever-changing nature of art and the human experience.
AS: Was there a specific turning point when songwriting shifted for you?
EB: The way songs come to me has certainly evolved over the years, influenced by both personal experiences and shifts in my creative process. In the past, I didn’t pay much attention to writing my own songs as I was proudly interpreting songs by others. There is so much talent out there, and I loved giving a new life to other people’s songs using my voice. However, when my wife [Marianna Burdon] came into my life, she changed things. She taught me the importance of songwriting and that my fans want to hear my point of view and my songs. She urged me to write more, which I did with albums like My Secret Life and ‘Til Your River Runs Dry.
Today, I am more disciplined in my creative practice, setting aside dedicated time for writing and honing my craft. This has allowed me to approach songwriting with a greater sense of focus and purpose, resulting in more polished and refined compositions.
Also, my collaboration with different artists and musicians from diverse backgrounds has not only expanded my creative horizons but has also challenged me to push the boundaries of my own songwriting. Overall, while the process of songwriting has evolved for me over the years, the underlying passion and drive to create music remain constant. Each new song is a testament to the ongoing journey of self-discovery and artistic expression, reflecting the ever-changing landscape of my life and experiences.
But I still consider myself a good interpreter of other people’s songs. There’s something special about bringing my own perspective to a well-written piece of music.
AS: What is it about Greece that still keeps you there?
EB: Greece holds a special place in my heart for a multitude of reasons, which have collectively contributed to my decision to make it my home. Firstly, there’s the rich cultural heritage and timeless beauty of the Greek landscape, from the sun-drenched islands to the ancient ruins steeped in history. The sense of serenity and connection to nature that permeates the Greek countryside has been a source of inspiration and solace for me.
Greece offers a vibrant and welcoming community that has embraced me with open arms. The warmth and hospitality of the Greek people have made me feel at home, fostering a sense of belonging that is truly invaluable.
Lastly, there’s an intangible quality to Greece that is difficult to articulate but undeniably powerful. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, allowing for moments of reflection and introspection that are increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced world. In Greece, I’ve found a sense of peace and contentment that I cherish deeply, making it a place I’m proud to call home.
On a personal level, my decision to reside in Greece is also intertwined with my family as my wife is Greek. Whether it’s the support of loved ones or the opportunity to spend quality time with my nearest and dearest, Greece has provided a nurturing environment for both my personal and professional life.
AS: It’s been more than a decade since your last solo album ‘Til Your River Runs Dry. Will there be another?
EB: I know it’s been some time since ‘Til Your River Runs Dry, but the creative flame still burns brightly within me. I’ve been continuously writing and exploring new musical avenues allowing inspiration to guide me along the way. Writing remains an integral part of my creative expression, serving as a cathartic outlet for my thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Crafting an album is a deeply immersive process, one that requires time, dedication, and a clear vision. So, while there are no concrete plans set in stone just yet, rest assured that the creative wheels are in motion, and I’m excited to see where the journey takes me next.
AS: You once quoted Winston Churchill: “Try not to fear to do or say what you believe to be right.” At this point in your life, has all the fear dissolved?
EB: While Winston Churchill’s quote resonates deeply with me and serves as a guiding principle in both my personal and professional life, I must admit that fear is a natural and inevitable part of the human experience. However, as I’ve navigated through life’s challenges and successes, I’ve learned to confront fear with courage and resilience.
Over the years, I’ve developed a greater sense of self-assurance and conviction in my beliefs and actions. This has allowed me to face fear head-on, embracing it as a catalyst for growth rather than allowing it to hold me back.
While I can’t claim to have completely eradicated fear from my life, I’ve cultivated a mindset that allows me to acknowledge its presence without letting it dictate my decisions or hinder my progress.
Ultimately, I strive to live by Churchill’s words, fearlessly pursuing what I believe to be right, even in the face of uncertainty or adversity. It’s a continuous journey, but one that has enriched my life immeasurably and allowed me to chart my own path with confidence and conviction.
*Story originally appeared in the July/August issue of American Songwriter
Photo: by Marianna Burdon
