When I was young
The Animals · Other Songs - The Animals
My father was a soldier then
And times were very hard
When I was young, when I was young
I smoked my first cigarette at ten
And for girls I had a bad yen
And I had quite a gall
When I was young
When I was young it was more important
They'd more pain but they laughed much louder yeah
When I was young, when I was young
I met my first love at thirteen
She was brown and I was pretty green
And I learned quite a lot
When I was young, when I was young
When I was young it was more important
They'd more pain but they laughed much louder yeah
When I was young, when I was young
My faith was so much stronger then
I believed in fellow man
And I was so much older then
When I was young, when I was young
When I was young, when I was young
When I was young, when I was young
When I was young
The Animals, a pioneering force in British rhythm and blues, delivered a raw and emotive sound that defined the mid-1960s music scene. Known for their powerful vocals and tight instrumentation, the band crafted a legacy that bridged the gap between traditional blues and emerging rock styles. While best remembered for anthems like 'House of the Rising Sun,' their broader discography reveals a versatile group capable of exploring diverse themes. 'When I was young' stands as a poignant reflection within their catalogue, showcasing the group's ability to convey deep personal sentiment through their signature gritty delivery. This recording highlights the band's enduring commitment to authentic expression, capturing the essence of their era without relying on commercial gimmicks. Their work remains a vital touchstone for understanding the evolution of British rock and the enduring power of vocal-driven blues.