Table of Contents
- 1. Heroin
- 2. Sweet Jane
- 3. Beginning To See the Light
- 4. I’ll Be Your Mirror
- 5. Sister Ray
- 6. Rock & Roll
- 7. Pale Blue Eyes
- 8. Venus In Furs
- 9. White Light/White Heat
- 10. I’m Waiting For The Man
- 11. What Goes On
- 12. New Age
- 13. All Tomorrow’s Parties
- 14. Femme Fatale
- 15. Here She Comes Now
- 16. Foggy Notion
- 17. We’re Gonna Have A Real Good Time Together (live at The Matrix)
- 18. Candy Says
- 19. I’m Sticking With You
- 20. Coyote (live)
The Velvet Underground, formed in New York City in 1964, is one of the most influential bands in the history of rock music. They are known for their unconventional sound and lyrics that explored topics such as drug use, sadomasochism, and other taboo subjects. Despite never achieving mainstream success during their active years, their music has continued to inspire countless artists and continues to be celebrated to this day.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 20 best songs by The Velvet Underground. From their early days performing at Andy Warhol’s Factory to their final album, we will take a look at the band’s most iconic tracks and delve into what makes them so timeless. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive overview of the band’s greatest hits and showcase why The Velvet Underground is still considered one of the most important bands in music history.
1. Heroin
“Heroin” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1967 debut album, “The Velvet Underground & Nico.” The song features a driving, repetitive guitar riff and spoken-word verses that describe the highs and lows of heroin use. It is widely considered one of the band’s most iconic and influential tracks, with its raw, honest lyrics and experimental sound influencing countless artists in the decades since its release. Despite its controversial subject matter, “Heroin” has stood the test of time as a powerful commentary on addiction and the human experience. The song’s unapologetic exploration of taboo topics helped to cement The Velvet Underground’s place in rock history and solidified their reputation as one of the most daring and innovative bands of their time.
2. Sweet Jane
“Sweet Jane” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1970 album, “Loaded.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and lyrics that celebrate the joy of music and the power of rock and roll. With its sing-along chorus and memorable guitar riff, “Sweet Jane” has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring tracks, with its influence felt across multiple genres of music. The song’s timeless message of the transformative power of music has helped to make it a classic, with its message resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, “Sweet Jane” has since become a staple of classic rock radio and a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring legacy.
3. Beginning To See the Light
“Beginning To See the Light” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1969 album, “The Velvet Underground.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and lyrics that celebrate the joys of newfound love and self-discovery. With its infectious chorus and driving guitar riff, “Beginning To See the Light” has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring tracks, capturing the spirit of the late 1960s and the counterculture movement of the time. Despite its relatively modest commercial success, the song’s influence has been felt across multiple genres of music, with its message of hope and optimism resonating with listeners around the world. Today, “Beginning To See the Light” remains a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring legacy and a celebration of the power of music to inspire and uplift.
4. I’ll Be Your Mirror
“I’ll Be Your Mirror” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1967 debut album, “The Velvet Underground & Nico.” The song features a delicate, ethereal melody and lyrics that speak to the transformative power of love and the importance of self-acceptance. Sung by band member Nico, “I’ll Be Your Mirror” is a hauntingly beautiful track that has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its message of self-love and acceptance has resonated with listeners for decades, inspiring countless artists across multiple genres of music. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, “I’ll Be Your Mirror” has since become a staple of alternative and indie rock radio, a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring influence, and a reminder of the timeless power of love and self-acceptance.
5. Sister Ray
“I’ll Be Your Mirror” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1967 debut album, “The Velvet Underground & Nico.” The song features a delicate, ethereal melody and lyrics that speak to the transformative power of love and the importance of self-acceptance. Sung by band member Nico, “I’ll Be Your Mirror” is a hauntingly beautiful track that has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring songs. Its message of self-love and acceptance has resonated with listeners for decades, inspiring countless artists across multiple genres of music. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, “I’ll Be Your Mirror” has since become a staple of alternative and indie rock radio, a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring influence, and a reminder of the timeless power of love and self-acceptance.
6. Rock & Roll
“Rock & Roll” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1970 album, “Loaded.” The song is a celebration of the power of rock and roll music, with lyrics that tell the story of a young girl whose life is transformed by the sound of a radio playing rock music. With its driving rhythm and catchy guitar riff, “Rock & Roll” has become one of the band’s most beloved and enduring tracks, and a staple of classic rock radio. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, the song’s message of hope and liberation has resonated with listeners for decades, inspiring countless artists across multiple genres of music. Today, “Rock & Roll” remains a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and influential bands in the history of rock music, and a celebration of the transformative power of music to change lives.
7. Pale Blue Eyes
“Pale Blue Eyes” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1969 self-titled album. The song features a slow, melancholic melody and lyrics that speak to the complexities of love and heartbreak. Sung by band member Lou Reed, “Pale Blue Eyes” is a hauntingly beautiful track that has become one of the band’s most enduring and beloved songs. Its message of love, loss, and regret has resonated with listeners for decades, inspiring countless artists across multiple genres of music. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, “Pale Blue Eyes” has since become a staple of alternative and indie rock radio, a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring influence, and a reminder of the timeless power of love and the human experience.
8. Venus In Furs
“Venus In Furs” is a song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their 1967 debut album, “The Velvet Underground & Nico.” The song is inspired by the 1870 novel of the same name by Austrian author Leopold von Sacher-Masoch, and features a hypnotic melody and lyrics that explore themes of sadomasochism and submission. With its driving rhythm and droning viola, “Venus In Furs” is a dark and provocative track that showcases the band’s willingness to explore taboo subject matter and push the boundaries of conventional rock music. Despite its controversial themes, the song has since become a cult favorite among fans of The Velvet Underground, with its haunting sound and provocative lyrics inspiring countless artists in the years since its release. Today, “Venus In Furs” remains a testament to the band’s enduring legacy as one of the most innovative and daring groups in the history of rock music.
9. White Light/White Heat
“White Light/White Heat” is the title track from The Velvet Underground’s second album, released in 1968. The song is a blistering blast of punk rock energy, with its driving rhythm, screeching guitars, and confrontational lyrics that seem to revel in the dangers of drug use and the excesses of the rock and roll lifestyle. Sung by the band’s leader Lou Reed, “White Light/White Heat” is a raw and uncompromising track that captures the raw energy and rebellious spirit of the era. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, the song has since become a cult classic and an inspiration for countless punk and alternative rock bands that have followed in its wake. Today, “White Light/White Heat” remains a testament to the band’s fearless exploration of taboo subject matter and their pioneering influence on the sound and attitude of rock music.
10. I’m Waiting For The Man
“I’m Waiting For The Man” is a classic Velvet Underground song that was originally released in 1967 on their debut album “The Velvet Underground & Nico”. The song is a vivid portrait of a drug addict’s journey to Harlem to purchase heroin from his dealer, capturing the gritty reality of the city’s underworld and the desperation of those caught up in its web. Sung by Lou Reed in his trademark deadpan style, “I’m Waiting For The Man” features a driving rhythm and a raw guitar riff that perfectly captures the urgency and intensity of the song’s subject matter. With its frank depiction of drug use and its gritty, urban sound, “I’m Waiting For The Man” stands as a classic example of the Velvet Underground’s unique and influential style, which helped to shape the sound and attitude of rock music for generations to come.
11. What Goes On
“What Goes On” is a song by the American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1969 as part of their self-titled album. The song features a lively rhythm, with driving guitars and drums, and showcases the band’s signature sound of gritty, raw rock mixed with poetic lyrics. The lyrics tell the story of a tumultuous romantic relationship, with the narrator questioning his partner’s feelings and actions. The song’s catchy chorus and guitar riffs make it a standout track on the album, and it remains a fan favorite to this day. “What Goes On” is a quintessential example of The Velvet Underground’s influential style, which has inspired countless musicians and continues to be celebrated as a landmark in the history of rock music.
12. New Age
“New Age” is a song by the American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1970 as part of their album “Loaded”. The song features a more polished and refined sound compared to their earlier work, with a prominent use of strings and a catchy pop melody. The lyrics reflect on the theme of rebirth and renewal, with the narrator looking forward to a new era of peace and love. The song’s uplifting tone and positive message make it a departure from the band’s more nihilistic and experimental work, but it still retains their signature poetic lyricism and musical style. “New Age” has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances, and it remains a testament to their ability to evolve and adapt while staying true to their artistic vision.
13. All Tomorrow’s Parties
“All Tomorrow’s Parties” is a haunting and evocative song by The Velvet Underground, originally released on their debut album “The Velvet Underground & Nico” in 1967. Sung by Nico, the song is a vivid portrayal of a decadent and glamorous party scene, filled with beautiful people and wild excess, but tinged with a sense of sadness and isolation. Nico’s haunting vocals are accompanied by a minimalist arrangement that features drones, chimes, and a simple guitar melody, creating a hypnotic and otherworldly atmosphere that perfectly captures the mood of the song. “All Tomorrow’s Parties” has become a beloved classic in the Velvet Underground’s catalog, celebrated for its poetic lyrics, haunting melodies, and unique blend of beauty and melancholy.
14. Femme Fatale
“Femme Fatale” is a mesmerizing and alluring song by The Velvet Underground, originally sung by Nico on their debut album “The Velvet Underground & Nico” in 1967. The song is a tribute to the archetype of the femme fatale, a seductive and mysterious woman who lures men to their downfall. Nico’s delicate and dreamy vocals are complemented by a lush arrangement that features an intricate guitar riff, a pulsing bass line, and shimmering percussion, creating a rich and textured sound that perfectly captures the allure of the femme fatale. “Femme Fatale” has become one of the Velvet Underground’s most beloved songs, celebrated for its evocative lyrics, haunting melodies, and sophisticated musical arrangements.
15. Here She Comes Now
“Here She Comes Now” is a song by the American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1967 as part of their album “White Light/White Heat”. The song features a simple, repetitive riff and sparse instrumentation, creating a hypnotic and atmospheric sound. The lyrics are cryptic and abstract, with the narrator anticipating the arrival of a mysterious woman. The song’s minimalist approach and enigmatic lyrics are characteristic of the band’s experimental and avant-garde style, and it has been cited as a major influence on the development of punk and alternative rock. “Here She Comes Now” remains a cult classic and a testament to The Velvet Underground’s enduring impact on the music world.
16. Foggy Notion
“Foggy Notion” is a song by the American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1969 as a single and later included in the compilation album “VU”. The song features a driving, bluesy rhythm and a catchy guitar riff, with each member of the band taking turns on vocals. The lyrics are playful and suggestive, with references to sexual desire and drug use. The song’s loose and improvisational structure reflects the band’s experimental and free-form approach to music-making, and it has been cited as a major influence on the development of alternative and indie rock. “Foggy Notion” remains a fan favorite and a testament to The Velvet Underground’s innovative and boundary-pushing approach to rock music.
17. We’re Gonna Have A Real Good Time Together (live at The Matrix)
“We’re Gonna Have a Real Good Time Together” is a lively track that showcases The Velvet Underground’s raw energy and garage rock sound. This live recording at The Matrix in San Francisco captures the band’s dynamic performance style and Lou Reed’s distinct vocal delivery. The song features upbeat guitar riffs and driving drums, creating a sense of urgency and excitement. The lyrics speak to the joy of being in the moment and experiencing the thrill of a live music performance, with lines like “We’re gonna dance to the rock ‘n’ roll / We’re gonna even do a little soul / We’re gonna groove, yeah, groove tonight”. Overall, this song is a fun and energetic addition to The Velvet Underground’s catalogue, showcasing their ability to create music that is both powerful and catchy.
18. Candy Says
“Candy Says” is a song by the American rock band The Velvet Underground, released in 1969 as part of their self-titled album. The song features a gentle, acoustic guitar melody and a poignant vocal performance by lead singer Lou Reed. The lyrics are based on conversations between Reed and Candy Darling, a transgender actress and one of Andy Warhol’s superstars, and reflect on themes of identity, gender, and self-acceptance. The song’s intimate and introspective tone marks a departure from the band’s more abrasive and experimental work, but it still retains their signature poetic lyricism and musical style. “Candy Says” has become a fan favorite and a testament to The Velvet Underground’s ability to tackle complex and controversial subject matter with sensitivity and grace.
19. I’m Sticking With You
“I’m Sticking with You” is a charming, upbeat love song by the Velvet Underground. The song is an example of the band’s more pop-oriented style, with simple chord progressions and playful lyrics about the joys of being in love. The song features Lou Reed and Maureen Tucker on vocals, with Tucker singing in a high, girlish voice that perfectly complements the song’s innocent lyrics. The track also includes handclaps and a jangling tambourine, adding to the song’s cheerful, optimistic vibe. Despite its simplicity, “I’m Sticking with You” remains a beloved track by the Velvet Underground, showcasing the band’s ability to craft catchy, charming tunes that remain timeless even decades later.
20. Coyote (live)
“Coyote” is a live recording by The Velvet Underground featuring vocalist and guitarist Lou Reed, bassist Doug Yule, and drummer Billy Yule. The song was first performed during the band’s 1970 residency at Max’s Kansas City in New York City and was later included on their live album “1969: The Velvet Underground Live”. The track features a fast-paced, country-inspired rhythm with lyrics that depict a woman’s journey across the United States to meet her lover, the titular Coyote. Reed’s vocal delivery is intense and frenzied, backed by Yule’s driving bassline and Billy Yule’s pounding drums. The song’s vivid imagery and raw energy make it a standout in the Velvet Underground’s discography, showcasing the band’s ability to merge diverse genres and create something truly unique.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
