Guide Note

Lou Reed is a singer-songwriter, guitarist, and record producer. He was a founding member of the Velvet Underground. In 1971 Reed quit the Velvet Underground and began a successful solo career. "Walk on the Wild Side," his first hit as a solo artist, was produced by David Bowie. The 2007 documentary film, Lou Reed's Berlin was filmed over 5 nights at a live 2006 concert performance from his 1973 concept album Berlin.

Fast Facts

1. Name: Lewis Rabinowitz
2. Born: March 2, 1942
3. Origin: Brooklyn, New York
4. Years Active: 1965 - Present
5. Founding member of the Velvet Underground
6. Discography

Key Solo Albums

Transformer, 1972—Reed's second solo album, after a self-titled debut, was produced by David Bowie and Mott the Hoople's Mick Ronson. The first single, "Walk on the Wild Side," was Reed's first bona fide commercial hit.

Berlin, 1973—A far gloomier affair than Transformer, Berlin contains themes of drug abuse, death and tragic romance, set to a blend of rock and orchestral sounds.

Metal Machine Music, 1975—In order to fulfill contractual ob'igations to RCA, his record company, Reed submitted Metal Machine Music, an hour and four minutes of squalling feedback and white noise. The album contained no actual songs, and has since been influential in the development of noise-rock bands, such as The Boredoms and Sonic Youth.

New Sensations, 1984—The pop-rock New Sensations may be the most mainstream-friendly of Reed's albums, featuring the infectious single "I Love You, Suzanne."

New York, 1989—A hit with critics and fans, New York represents Reed's first extended political statement, as well as a return to basic, blues-influenced rock structures. The work is a concept album concerning modern politics and the state of New York City.

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