Band

Lou Reed

Mapped through Glam Rock, Folk rock, Rock influences; 23 albums in the Staimusic archive.

Lou Reed
Biography

Lou Reed: history and sound

Lewis Allan Lou Reed (March 2, 1942 – October 27, 2013) was an American musician, singer, and songwriter. Lou Reed is a highly accomplished musical artist with an expansive catalogue of memorable, influential tunes. He was prolifically prolific, releasing 26 studio albums between 1964 and his death in 2013; 13 of those releases attained varying levels of commercial success. Amongst some of Lou Reed's most celebrated songs are Walk on the Wild Side, Satellite of Love, and Perfect Day. Legacy wise, he achieved critical points for pushing boundaries by blending a distinctive synthesis of rock, punk, jazz and classical music into one style. No musician has ever quite managed to sound like Lou Reed, showcasing how impactful and innovative his work was during an artistic career that shaped the soundscapes of more than one generation.
Remembering Lou Reed: A Tribute to the Father of Alternative Rock
Lou Reed was one of the most influential artists in the history of rock and roll. With a career spanning over five decades, he is known for his poetic lyrics, unconventional voice, and willingness to experiment with different musical styles. From his solo work to his contributions to the Velvet Underground, Reed has left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring countless musicians and fans alike. In this article, we will take a closer look at his musical biography, genre-bending music, best songs, and concerts.
Lou Reed was born in Brooklyn, New York, in 1942. He started playing guitar in his teen years and formed the Velvet Underground in 1964. While the band was not commercially successful during its inception, their legacy is now revered as one of the most groundbreaking and influential bands in rock history. The band's music was a blend of rock, avant-garde, and proto-punk. After the band's breakup, Reed went on to have a successful solo career, releasing groundbreaking albums like Transformer and Berlin.
Reed's music is often associated with the underground music scene, where he drew inspiration from poets, artists, and beatniks. He was known for his raw and emotive performances, with songs that dealt with taboo subjects like drug use, prostitution, and homosexuality. Reed was also an innovator in the music industry, collaborating with other artists and incorporating different genres into his music. He tackled everything from punk rock to jazz, and his music always had an edge that was uniquely his own.
Some of Reed's best songs include Walk on the Wild Side, Perfect Day, and Sweet Jane. Walk on the Wild Side is one of his most recognizable songs, featuring a catchy bassline and lyrics that celebrate the lives of transvestites and other outcasts in New York City. Perfect Day is a more soulful number, showcasing Reed's softer side. Sweet Jane is a classic rock song with a sing-along chorus that remains a fan favorite to this day.
Reed's concerts were legendary for their intensity and unpredictability. He was known for eschewing conventions like setlists and would often change up his songs on the fly, keeping both the audience and musicians on their toes. One of his most famous concerts was his Berlin concert in 2007, where he performed his album Berlin in its entirety, complete with a choir and orchestra. The concert was hailed as a triumph of art and music.
Critics and fans alike have praised Reed's contributions to the music industry. His influence can be heard in everything from punk rock to indie music. Reed's music resonates even today, inspiring new generations of musicians who continue to push boundaries in their own right.
In conclusion, Lou Reed was a true pioneer in the music industry. His unapologetic approach to songwriting and his willingness to experiment with different genres has made him an enduring figure in music history. From his work with the Velvet Underground to his solo career, Reed's legacy lives on. So turn up the volume and take a walk on the wild side with Lou Reed's music.
Songs

Selected YouTube songs from our archive

Charley's Girl
Lou Reed Charley's Girl
New Sensations
Lou Reed New Sensations
She's My Best Friend
Lou Reed She's My Best Friend
Nobody But You
Lou Reed Nobody But You
A Gift
Lou Reed A Gift
White Light/white Heat
Lou Reed White Light/white Heat
Articles and news

Stories, updates and listening guides

Music

DISCOGRAPHY OF LOU REED