Role

:

Composer  

Country

:

United States of America

Birth

:

March 2, 1942 in Brooklyn, NY

Death

:

October 27, 2013 in East Hampton, NY

 

Lou Reed was an American musician, songwriter, and guitarist who was born on March 2, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York. He was the son of Sidney Joseph Reed, a tax accountant, and Toby Futterman Reed, a housewife. Lou Reed grew up in a Jewish family and attended Syracuse University, where he studied English and journalism. Reed's interest in music began at an early age, and he started playing the guitar when he was a teenager. He was influenced by the music of Elvis Presley, Chuck Berry, and Little Richard, and he formed his first band, The Shades, while he was still in high school. After graduating from Syracuse University in 1964, Reed moved to New York City and formed the band The Velvet Underground with John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Maureen Tucker. The Velvet Underground was known for their experimental sound and provocative lyrics, and they quickly gained a following in the New York City music scene. Their debut album, "The Velvet Underground & Nico," was released in 1967 and featured the iconic banana cover designed by Andy Warhol. The album was not a commercial success at the time, but it has since been recognized as a groundbreaking work of art. Reed left The Velvet Underground in 1970 and began a solo career. His first solo album, "Lou Reed," was released in 1972 and featured the hit single "Walk on the Wild Side." The song, which was about the transsexuals and other colorful characters who frequented Andy Warhol's Factory, became Reed's signature song and remains one of his most popular works. Throughout his career, Reed continued to push the boundaries of music and explore new genres. He experimented with rock, punk, and electronic music, and collaborated with artists such as David Bowie, Laurie Anderson, and Metallica. Some of his most notable works include the albums "Transformer," "Berlin," and "New York," as well as the songs "Perfect Day," "Satellite of Love," and "Heroin." Reed was also known for his outspoken personality and controversial opinions. He was openly bisexual and wrote songs about his experiences with both men and women. He was a vocal critic of the music industry and the political establishment, and he often used his music to address social and political issues. Lou Reed passed away on October 27, 2013, at the age of 71. He left behind a legacy as one of the most influential musicians of his generation, and his music continues to inspire and challenge listeners today.

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