Alan Price

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Alan Price – Life, Career, and Musical Legacy

Explore the life and work of Alan Price (born April 19, 1942)—English keyboardist, singer, composer, and former member of The Animals. Discover his music, film contributions, signature style, and enduring influence.

Introduction

Alan Price (born 19 April 1942) is an English musician, singer, composer, and arranger. He rose to prominence as the original keyboardist of the British rock band The Animals, contributing to iconic recordings like “The House of the Rising Sun”. After leaving the band in 1965, Price built a successful solo career, composed film scores, and continued performing for decades. His versatility—across rock, pop, soundtrack, and entertainment—makes him an enduring figure in British music history.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Alan Price was born in Fatfield, Washington, County Durham, England on 19 April 1942. Jarrow Grammar School in South Tyneside.

He was largely self-taught in music—learning piano, organ, and later other instruments through practice and immersion. Alan Price Rhythm and Blues Combo, a Tyneside group that later evolved—after recruiting singer Eric Burdon—into The Animals.

His organ playing became a key musical voice in The Animals’ sound. For example, his arrangement for “The House of the Rising Sun” is widely regarded as iconic.

Career with The Animals

As keyboardist of The Animals, Price contributed to several of their major hits: “The House of the Rising Sun”, “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood”, “Bring It On Home to Me”, among others.

However, in May 1965 he left The Animals—citing musical differences and, reportedly, a fear of flying on tour.

Solo Career & the Alan Price Set

Shortly after leaving The Animals, Price formed his own band, The Alan Price Set. “I Put a Spell on You” (reaching UK Top 10), “Hi-Lili, Hi-Lo”, “Simon Smith and the Amazing Dancing Bear”, and “The House That Jack Built”.

In 1974, he released the autobiographical album Between Today and Yesterday, which included the single “Jarrow Song”, returning him to chart success.

One interesting story: in 1974 he also recorded an album called Savaloy Dip, intended as a sequel to O Lucky Man!. But it was recalled by the label and remained unreleased until 2016.

He also collaborated with Georgie Fame, producing “Rosetta” and joint albums like Fame and Price / Price and Fame.

Later, in the 1990s, he joined forces with The Electric Blues Company, featuring Bobby Tench and Zoot Money, to record albums such as Covers and A Gigster’s Life for Me.

Film, Television & Composing

Alan Price’s contributions extended beyond the stage and studio:

• He composed the soundtrack for Lindsay Anderson’s film O Lucky Man! (1973), in which he also appears on screen. This score won critical acclaim and awards including a BAFTA.

• He acted in Alfie Darling (1975), a sequel to Alfie.

• He wrote music for The Whales of August (film) and other film/TV projects like The Plague Dogs.

• On TV, he appeared on shows such as Saturday Night Live (1977), performing his songs.

• He also composed for stage musicals—for example Andy Capp—and contributed theme songs to television series.

Style, Influence & Musical Identity

Alan Price is known for blending rock, pop, blues, and more orchestral or cinematic elements. His keyboard work—especially on organ and piano—has been praised for its melodic richness and supporting role in arrangements rather than overpowering solos.

He helped popularize the use of the organ in rock music, and his arrangements of songs (especially traditional ones) have become definitive for many listeners.

His longevity—active from the 1960s well into the 2000s—speaks to his adaptability, whether performing, composing, or reinterpreting his catalog.

Notable Achievements & Awards

• In 1994, Alan Price was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Animals.

• The O Lucky Man! soundtrack earned him a BAFTA for film music.

• His songs have continued to be performed, adapted, and appreciated across generations.

• The delayed release of Savaloy Dip in 2016 revived interest in his archival work.

Legacy & Influence

Alan Price’s legacy is multifaceted:

• He remains a touchstone in British Invasion history—not just as a member of The Animals, but as someone who successfully transitioned to a solo and composing career.

• His approach to keyboard arrangement, composing, and collaboration has influenced many rock, pop, and soundtrack musicians.

• His work in film and television demonstrates how a rock musician can cross into cinematic and narrative realms without losing musical authenticity.

• The story of Savaloy Dip also shows how artist legacy can include lost or rediscovered works that deepen appreciation for their oeuvre.