Written by: David Williams

Hilton Valentine: The Original Guitarist of The Animals

Hilton Valentine was a renowned English skiffle and rock and roll musician, best known as the original guitarist of the iconic British rock band, The Animals. His unique guitar playing style and contributions to the band's early successes earned him a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994 and Hollywood's Rock Walk of Fame in 2001.

Early Life and Influences

Born on May 21, 1943, in North Shields, North Tyneside, England, Valentine was influenced by the 1950s skiffle craze. His mother bought him his first guitar in 1956, and he taught himself some chords from a book called "Teach Yourself a Thousand Chords."

Early Career and The Heppers

Valentine continued to develop his musical talent at Tynemouth High School, forming his own skiffle group called the Heppers. They played local gigs, and a newspaper described them as "a young but promising skiffle group." The Heppers eventually evolved into a rock and roll band, the Wildcats, in circa 1959.

The Animals and Rise to Fame

In 1963, the Animals were starting to form, and Chas Chandler heard about Hilton Valentine's wild guitar playing and asked him to join what was then the Alan Price Combo. Eric Burdon was already a member, and John Steel joined immediately following Valentine's arrival. Within a few months, this group changed their name to the Animals.

Professional Career and Achievements

With The Animals, Valentine achieved immense success, including hits like "House of the Rising Sun," "Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood," and "We Gotta Get Out of This Place." The band's music was a unique blend of blues, rock, and roll, and folk, which captivated audiences worldwide.

Valentine's guitar playing style was characterized by his use of the Futurama III solid guitar and later, the Burns VibraArtiste. His innovative and energetic playing helped shape the sound of The Animals.

Solo Career and Later Life

Following The Animals' breakup in 1966, Valentine produced several solo albums, including "All in Your Head" (1969) and "It's Folk N Skiffle, Mate" (2004). He also toured New England and participated in several The Animals reunions.

Throughout his career, Valentine remained dedicated to his music, always striving to create something new and exciting. He continued to perform and record music until his passing on January 29, 2021.

Hilton Valentine's contributions to rock music are undeniable. He was a true innovator, and his unique guitar playing style and songwriting skills helped shape the sound of The Animals. His legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.

• Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994
• Inducted into Hollywood's Rock Walk of Fame in 2001
• Released several solo albums
• Toured extensively with The Animals and as a solo artist
• Influenced numerous rock and roll bands

Hilton Valentine's impact on rock music is a testament to his innovative spirit and dedication to his craft. He will be remembered as a true rock and roll pioneer, and his music will continue to captivate audiences for generations to come.