Lou Reed was one of the most influential artist of our time; first appearing on the scene with the Velvet Underground and then continuing on as a successful solo artist. His dark and literal lyrics challenged the norms of the music world and were greatly appreciated. Reed died on Sunday at 71, it is currently unconfirmed as to the reasons why.
In the 60’s, while music coming out of California gave images of peace and love, and Pink Floyd in the London paisley underground, Reed and his band the Velvet Underground were telling a different story and painting a different picture of their city. On the opposite side of the country, a darker tale of life in the city was being told that included taboo subjects (at the time) of sex, drugs and stories of the dark seedy underworld of New York. Although Reed’s only radio hit was “Walk On The Wildside,” Reed stands tall next to 70’s biggest influential and relevant artist such as Bowie, Iggy Pop and T Rex; they were the fab four of the 70’s. Giving New York their ultimate cool appeal way before the New York Dolls or The Ramones, Reed will be greatly missed and forever will be immortalized in his music and words.
Txt by: Daniel Salas