Lou Reed was an American musician, songwriter, and poet who rose to prominence as the frontman of the influential rock band The Velvet Underground in the 1960s. After leaving the band, Reed embarked on a successful solo career that spanned several decades, producing some of the most iconic songs in rock history. His music was known for its poetic lyricism, experimental soundscapes, and gritty, often controversial themes that explored the darker aspects of human experience.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Lou Reed songs of all time. From his early years with The Velvet Underground to his later solo work, Reed’s music has left an indelible mark on the world of rock and roll, inspiring countless artists and musicians along the way. Whether you’re a die-hard Lou Reed fan or simply curious about his unique and groundbreaking sound, this list is sure to provide a comprehensive overview of some of his most iconic and memorable songs. So sit back, grab your headphones, and get ready to dive into the world of Lou Reed’s music.
1. Satellite of Love
“Satellite of Love” is one of Lou Reed’s most beloved and iconic songs, released on his 1972 album “Transformer.” The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and a lively horn section, contrasting with the song’s lyrics, which explore themes of loneliness, alienation, and longing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is isolated from the world, dreaming of being connected to something greater, and finding solace in watching television. The song’s catchy chorus and Reed’s distinctive vocals make it a fan favorite, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years. “Satellite of Love” is a perfect example of Reed’s ability to blend poignant lyrics with upbeat, catchy melodies, making it a standout track in his extensive discography.
2. Kill Your Sons
“Kill Your Sons” is a powerful and deeply personal song from Lou Reed’s 1974 album “Sally Can’t Dance.” The song explores Reed’s struggles with mental illness and the controversial treatments he received as a teenager, including electroconvulsive therapy. With its driving beat and blistering guitar riffs, “Kill Your Sons” conveys a sense of anger and frustration, as Reed rails against the oppressive forces that sought to control and “fix” him. Despite its intense subject matter, the song is also filled with moments of vulnerability and introspection, as Reed reflects on his own experiences and offers a message of hope and resilience to others who may be struggling with mental health issues. “Kill Your Sons” is a haunting and deeply moving track that showcases Reed’s unique ability to use music as a means of personal expression and social commentary.
3. Smalltown (with John Cale)
“Smalltown” is a poignant and introspective song that was recorded as a collaboration between Lou Reed and his former bandmate, John Cale. The song was released on their 1990 album “Songs for Drella,” which was dedicated to their mutual friend and mentor, Andy Warhol. “Smalltown” features a simple, stripped-down arrangement of acoustic guitar and vocals, with Reed and Cale taking turns singing verses that describe the experience of growing up in a small town and feeling trapped by its limitations. The song’s lyrics are filled with vivid, evocative imagery, painting a picture of a place that is both familiar and suffocating. “Smalltown” is a beautiful and poignant reminder of the power of music to capture the complexities of the human experience, and the enduring legacy of Reed and Cale’s collaboration.
4. Walk on the Wild Side
“Walk on the Wild Side” is one of Lou Reed’s most iconic and recognizable songs, released on his 1972 album “Transformer.” The song features a catchy, jazzy melody and a memorable bassline, along with Reed’s distinctive spoken-word vocals. The lyrics tell the story of several characters from Andy Warhol’s circle in 1960s New York, including trans women and drag queens, and explore themes of sexuality, gender identity, and the underground subculture of the era. Despite its controversial subject matter, “Walk on the Wild Side” became a commercial success and remains one of Reed’s most well-known songs. It is a testament to his ability to create music that is both thought-provoking and catchy, and to his willingness to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
5. The Blue Mask
“The Blue Mask” is the title track from Lou Reed’s 1982 album of the same name, and is widely regarded as one of his finest works. The song features a powerful, driving rhythm section and searing guitar work, with Reed’s vocals conveying a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, as Reed reflects on his own experiences and struggles with addiction and personal demons. Despite its dark subject matter, “The Blue Mask” is ultimately a song of hope and redemption, as Reed sings about the transformative power of facing one’s own inner demons and emerging stronger on the other side. With its raw, uncompromising sound and deeply personal lyrics, “The Blue Mask” is a powerful and enduring testament to Reed’s singular talent and vision as an artist.
6. Lady Day
“Lady Day” is a beautiful and tender tribute to jazz legend Billie Holiday, recorded by Lou Reed on his 1985 album “Legendary Hearts.” The song features a sparse, elegant arrangement of acoustic guitar and Reed’s soft, melodic vocals, creating a sense of intimacy and warmth. The lyrics paint a portrait of Holiday as a complex and troubled figure, whose music and life continue to inspire and captivate audiences even after her death. Reed’s own admiration for Holiday shines through in every note, as he sings with a sense of reverence and affection for the legendary singer. “Lady Day” is a timeless and heartfelt tribute to one of the most influential and enduring figures in jazz history, and a testament to Reed’s own skill as a songwriter and performer.
7.Coney Island Baby
“Coney Island Baby” is a nostalgic and romantic ballad from Lou Reed’s 1976 album of the same name. The song features a gentle, wistful melody and sparse arrangement, with Reed’s tender vocals conveying a sense of longing and bittersweet nostalgia. The lyrics tell the story of a love affair that takes place on the boardwalks of Coney Island, capturing the carefree spirit of summertime and the magic of falling in love. With its evocative imagery and heartfelt sentiment, “Coney Island Baby” has become a beloved classic in Reed’s discography, showcasing his ability to craft simple yet deeply affecting songs that speak to the heart of the human experience. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to Reed’s music, “Coney Island Baby” is sure to captivate and enchant you with its timeless charm.
8. Street Hassle
“Street Hassle” is an epic and ambitious song from Lou Reed’s 1978 album of the same name, clocking in at over 11 minutes in length. The song features a haunting, atmospheric arrangement that blends rock and jazz influences, along with spoken-word vocals that tell a complex and emotionally charged story. The lyrics describe a chance encounter on the streets of New York City between two former lovers, as they confront the pain and regret of their past relationship. With its shifting rhythms and powerful emotional intensity, “Street Hassle” is a tour-de-force of Reed’s songwriting and performance skills, showcasing his ability to create music that is both intellectually and emotionally engaging. It is a landmark track in Reed’s discography, and a testament to his status as one of the most innovative and influential artists in rock history.
9. Perfect Day
“Perfect Day” is a timeless and hauntingly beautiful song from Lou Reed’s 1972 album “Transformer.” The song features a simple, elegant arrangement of acoustic guitar and orchestral strings, with Reed’s soft, melodic vocals conveying a sense of fragile vulnerability and emotional resonance. The lyrics describe a day that is perfect in every way, capturing the beauty and wonder of life’s fleeting moments. Despite its seemingly idyllic subject matter, the song is imbued with a sense of melancholy and longing, as Reed’s vocals suggest a deeper undercurrent of sadness and regret. “Perfect Day” has become one of Reed’s most enduring and beloved songs, a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of human experience and the enduring power of music to capture its essence.
10. What’s Good?
“What’s Good?” is a standout track from Lou Reed’s 1989 album “New York,” and features a driving, guitar-driven sound that is emblematic of the album’s overall style. The song’s lyrics are dark and brooding, exploring themes of violence, corruption, and social decay in the urban landscape. Reed’s vocals convey a sense of anger and frustration, as he rails against the injustices and hypocrisies of modern society. Despite its bleak subject matter, “What’s Good?” is ultimately a song of hope, as Reed searches for meaning and purpose in a world that often seems devoid of both. With its propulsive beat and searing guitar work, “What’s Good?” is a powerful and deeply affecting track that speaks to the timeless themes of human struggle and perseverance that have defined Reed’s music throughout his storied career.
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.
