The Black-Man's Burdon

"The Black-Man's Burdon" is a double album released by Eric Burdon and War in December 1970 on MGM Records. It marked the final album by the group before Eric Burdon departed and the remaining band continued as War.

The album's title is a play on "The Black Man's Burden," a phrase referencing black slavery, which contrasts with Rudyard Kipling's poem "The White Man's Burden." The album includes two suites based on songs by other artists: "Paint It Black" by The Rolling Stones and "Nights in White Satin" by The Moody Blues. These suites are expanded with additional sections composed by the group, and the album features mostly instrumental tracks, interspersed with Eric Burdon's recitation of the poem "P.C. 3" over music.

Critically, the album is noted for its sprawling psychedelic funk jams, showcasing War's fusion of jazz, Latin, and soul influences. Richie Unterberger of Allmusic described it as a work where War "mapped out much of the jazz/Latin/soul grooves" they would become known for.

"They Can't Take Away Our Music" was the album's single release, paired with "Home Cookin'". The album remains a significant part of War's discography, highlighting their experimental approach to blending genres and themes.