Soldier of Fortune cover

Soldier of Fortune

Eric Burdon · 1997

58 min · 12 tracks · blues

A fusion of blues and rock that channels Burdon’s gritty vocals into tales of struggle and resilience.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Heart Attack — The opening track sets the tone with its driving rhythm and urgent vocals, encapsulating themes of urgency and survival that resonate throughout the album.
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    Power Company — This song highlights Burdon's ability to weave social commentary into engaging melodies, reflecting on industry power dynamics with a compelling groove.
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    Portrait of a Soldier — A poignant reflection on war and identity, this track showcases Burdon's lyrical depth and emotional delivery, making it a standout moment on the album.
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    You Can’t Kill My Spirit — The anthem-like quality of this track embodies resilience, featuring empowering lyrics that resonate as a rallying cry against adversity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • gritty storytelling through vocals
  • cathartic release of raw emotion
  • reflective moments of resilience
  • late-night introspection and reflection
  • energizing anthems for weary souls

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer polished, upbeat tracks
  • seek quick, catchy singles

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Soldier of Fortune' was released in 1997, Eric Burdon had transitioned from his 1960s fame with The Animals to a solo career marked by varied musical explorations. This album emerged as part of his ongoing reinvention, following a decade where he delved into diverse genres like Latin rock and jazz fusion, showcasing his adaptability as an artist.
Stylistic neighbors
The Animals· Joe Cocker· Santana

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Heart Attack 4:31
  • 2 Power Company 4:48
  • 3 Highway Mover 4:58
  • 4 Wicked Man 5:47
  • 5 Ghetto Child 5:37
  • 6 Portrait of a Soldier 5:00
  • 7 Devil’s Daughter 4:22
  • 8 Comeback 2:05
  • 9 You Can’t Kill My Spirit 3:27
  • 10 Yes Indeed, Yeah 6:24
  • 11 House of the Rising Sun 4:56
  • 12 Ghetto Child (reprise, live) 6:32

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata