Eric Burdon: Age, Date of Birth & other info
Eric Burdon is an iconic figure in the music industry, particularly within the world of rock and blues. His distinctive voice, captivating stage presence, and influence on the genre have made him a legendary figure in the annals of music history.
- Age: 83 Years
- Date of Birth: May 11, 1941
- Birth Place: Newcastle upon Tyne, England
- Height: 5 feet 6 inches tall (1.7 meters)
- Net Worth: $8 million
Early Life and Date of Birth
Eric Burdon was born on May 11, 1941, in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. This date places him in the early years of the post-World War II generation, and the cultural environment of the 1940s and 1950s would later influence his artistic direction. Raised in Newcastle, Burdon grew up in a working-class family. His early life was marked by the impact of the harsh conditions that came with being part of the working class in the north of England during the mid-20th century.Burdon’s interest in music developed at a young age. He was particularly influenced by the growing popularity of blues, R&B, and rock and roll in the 1950s. His parents, while not deeply involved in the music scene themselves, supported his early interest in singing and performance.It wasn’t long before Burdon’s talent became evident, and by his teenage years, he was involved in local bands. His burgeoning passion for music would eventually lead him to leave Newcastle and pursue his dreams of a professional career in music.
The Rise of Eric Burdon in the 1960s
Eric Burdon first gained widespread recognition as the lead singer of The Animals, a band that formed in 1962. The Animals were among the first British bands to successfully blend rock and roll with rhythm and blues, and Burdon’s powerful vocals were an integral part of their sound. Their early hits, including the classic “House of the Rising Sun,” helped define the sound of the 1960s British Invasion.”House of the Rising Sun,” a traditional folk song that was reinterpreted by The Animals with a rock-infused arrangement, became a massive hit, reaching number one on the charts in the U.S. and the U.K. in 1964. The success of the song catapulted the band to fame, and Eric Burdon was heralded for his intense and emotional vocal delivery. The success of The Animals was instrumental in popularizing blues and R&B in Britain during the 1960s.The Animals were not just another British Invasion band; they had a distinctive sound that incorporated both blues and rock elements, driven by Burdon’s distinctive vocals. This fusion of genres helped cement the band’s position as one of the most influential groups of the era.However, as is often the case with the pressures of fame and personal conflicts, The Animals eventually began to break up. In 1966, Burdon decided to leave the group and embark on a solo career. Despite the split, Burdon’s association with the band remained a significant part of his legacy, and the music of The Animals continued to resonate with fans around the world.
Eric Burdon and War: The Next Phase
In the late 1960s, Burdon’s musical evolution took an interesting turn when he joined forces with the band War, a Los Angeles-based group known for their innovative mix of rock, funk, soul, and Latin rhythms. This collaboration marked a distinct phase in Burdon’s career, and it resulted in the creation of several influential albums. Notably, the album Eric Burdon Declares “War” (1970) was a bold departure from his previous work, blending psychedelic rock with funk and creating a sound that was both experimental and deeply soulful.One of the most famous songs from this period is “Spill the Wine,” a funky and groovy track that became a hit on the charts. The collaboration with War was a highly successful venture for Burdon, and it allowed him to reach new audiences while continuing to evolve as an artist. War’s influence on Burdon’s work is unmistakable, and it played a significant role in expanding his musical range.Despite his success with War, Burdon’s time with the group was relatively short. He left War in the early 1970s to pursue a solo career, but the period of collaboration left a lasting impact on his musical legacy.
Solo Career and Later Years
After his time with War, Eric Burdon continued to build on his reputation as one of the leading voices in rock and blues. He released several albums in the 1970s, including Love Is, Sun Secrets, and The Black-Man’s Burdon. These albums were more introspective and reflective of Burdon’s evolving musical sensibilities.Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Burdon remained active in the music scene, performing live and recording new material. He also reunited with the original members of The Animals for special performances, including the 1994 reunion tour. This period saw Burdon continue to embrace his musical roots while incorporating new influences and styles.Though the mainstream popularity of his music waned somewhat in the later decades, Burdon’s enduring legacy as a pioneer in rock and blues ensured that he maintained a devoted following. Burdon’s musical exploration never truly stopped. He continued to tour, releasing new albums, and was highly respected in music circles for his consistent creativity.
Eric Burdon’s Personal Life and Family
Eric Burdon has had an eventful personal life, filled with both triumph and struggle. He has been married several times and has fathered children. In terms of his romantic relationships, his first marriage was to Angie King in the 1960s, though the marriage was short-lived. Later, Burdon married his second wife, Rose Marks, in the 1980s, and the couple remained together for several years before parting ways.Eric Burdon’s children include daughters, though not much is publicly known about their personal lives. Burdon has generally kept his family life private, although he has occasionally shared insights into his relationships and experiences as a father. Throughout his life, he has continued to speak about his passion for music and his desire to keep performing, a commitment that has remained central to his identity.
Health and Legacy
In recent years, Eric Burdon’s health has been a topic of concern, as he has been open about battling various health challenges. However, his resilience and dedication to his craft have kept him performing well into his 80s. His presence on stage is still magnetic, and he remains a figure of great influence for younger generations of musicians.Burdon’s legacy as one of rock and blues’ most distinctive and influential voices remains unchallenged. His role in shaping the British Invasion, influencing countless musicians, and helping introduce new sounds and ideas into the mainstream is widely acknowledged.
Net Worth
As of 2025, Eric Burdon’s net worth is estimated to be between $10 million and $20 million. This fortune stems from his long and successful career in the music industry, including revenue from record sales, live performances, and royalties. Burdon’s extensive catalog of music, including hits from his time with The Animals, his solo career, and his work with War, continues to generate revenue. Despite not being as active in recent years, Burdon’s legendary status ensures that his earnings remain strong.Burdon’s ability to remain relevant through multiple musical eras, from the 1960s to the present day, reflects his enduring influence. His wealth is not just a product of his musical success, but also the result of his entrepreneurial endeavors and shrewd decision-making regarding his legacy.
Conclusion
Eric Burdon’s journey from a working-class boy in Newcastle to one of the most influential figures in rock and blues music is a story of immense talent, perseverance, and evolution. From his early years with The Animals to his groundbreaking collaborations with War and his successful solo career, Burdon has consistently pushed the boundaries of music and influenced countless artists along the way.Now in his 80s, Eric Burdon remains an iconic figure in the world of rock, blues, and soul. His contributions to music have left an indelible mark on the industry, and his legacy as a musician and performer will undoubtedly continue to inspire future generations.His estimated net worth of $10-20 million is a testament to both his commercial success and his enduring relevance in the music industry. Eric Burdon’s age may be advancing, but his passion for music, his artistic legacy, and his impact on the world of rock and blues are as vital as ever.
