Lou Reed's Top 20 Solo Songs: A Journey Through Musical Brilliance

Lou Reed: the 20 best solo songs

Lou Reed, the iconic musician known for his enigmatic persona and boundary-pushing music, left an indelible mark on the world of rock with his solo career. Despite his own ambivalence towards some of his work, Reed’s solo discography is a treasure trove of diverse and thought-provoking songs that continue to captivate audiences to this day. Let’s delve into his 20 best solo songs, each a testament to his unparalleled talent and creative vision.

Table of Contents

Early Life and The Velvet Underground:

Lou Reed, born Lewis Allan Reed on March 2, 1942, in Freeport, New York, established himself as a pivotal figure in rock history. He found his musical voice as the frontman and lead guitarist of the Velvet Underground, a band formed in 1964. Despite achieving limited commercial success during their active years (1964-1970), their music, characterized by its raw energy, unconventional sound, and exploration of dark themes, gained a cult following and exerted a profound influence on alternative rock and punk music.

Solo Career and Mainstream Recognition:

Following the Velvet Underground’s disbandment, Reed embarked on a successful solo career. His 1972 album, “Transformer,” produced by David Bowie and featuring the iconic song “Walk on the Wild Side,” marked a turning point, achieving mainstream recognition and introducing him to a wider audience. Throughout his solo career, he continued to push boundaries with his music, delving into diverse genres and themes while remaining true to his unique lyrical style and poetic sensibilities.

Lou Reed’s Musical Evolution: From The Velvet Underground to Solo Stardom

Lou Reed’s journey as a solo artist began after the dissolution of The Velvet Underground, the groundbreaking band he co-founded. Emerging from uncertain beginnings, Reed’s solo career flourished, marked by a prolific output that spanned several decades. His music traversed a wide spectrum of genres, from gritty rock to introspective ballads, showcasing his versatility as a songwriter and performer.

The Enigmatic Charm of Lou Reed Songs

Lou Reed’s songs are characterized by their raw honesty and vivid storytelling. He had a knack for crafting narratives that delved into the complexities of human emotion and experience. Whether he was chronicling the gritty realities of urban life or exploring themes of love, loss, and redemption, Reed’s lyrics resonated with audiences on a profound level.

A Countdown of Lou Reed’s 20 Best Solo Songs

20. Magic And Loss (Summation) (Magic And Loss, 1992)

19. Tell It To Your Heart (Mistrial, 1986)

18. Set The Twilight Reeling (Set The Twilight Reeling, 1996)

17. The Gun (The Blue Mask, 1982)

16. Vicious (Transformer, 1972)

15. How Do You Speak To An Angel (Growing Up In Public, 1980)

14. Romeo Had Juliette (New York, 1989)

13. Kicks (Coney Island Baby, 1976)

12. Ennui (Sally Can’t Dance, 1974)

11. Disco Mystic (The Bells, 1979)

10. How Do You Think It Feels (Berlin, 1973)

9. She’s My Best Friend (Coney Island Baby, 1976)

8. Street Hassle (Street Hassle, 1978)

7. Temporary Thing (Rock And Roll Heart, 1976)

6. Walk On The Wild Side (Transformer, 1972)

5. The Bells (The Bells, 1979)

4. Satellite Of Love (Transformer, 1972)

3. Perfect Day (Transformer, 1972)

2. Sad Song (Berlin, 1973)

1. Coney Island Baby (Coney Island Baby, 1976)

From the infectious groove of “Walk On The Wild Side” to the poignant beauty of “Perfect Day,” each of these songs showcases Lou Reed’s unparalleled talent and creative genius. As we reflect on his legacy, it’s clear that Reed’s music will continue to inspire and resonate with audiences for generations to come.

Each of these songs offers a glimpse into the multi-faceted world of Lou Reed’s music, showcasing his ability to tackle a diverse range of themes and styles with ease. From the gritty energy of “Vicious” to the haunting beauty of “Perfect Day,” Reed’s songs leave an indelible impression on listeners, transcending time and genre.

Legacy and Net Worth:

Lou Reed passed away on October 27, 2013, at the age of 71. At the time of his death, his net worth was estimated to be around $15 million. However, his true legacy resides beyond his financial success. He is remembered as a groundbreaking artist whose music resonated with generations of fans, inspiring countless musicians and leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of alternative rock.

Additional Facts:

Lou Reed was known for his distinctive deadpan vocals and introspective lyrics, often exploring themes of alienation, urban life, and societal issues.
He experimented with various musical styles throughout his career, incorporating elements of rock, glam, and avant-garde into his work.
Despite initial commercial struggles, Lou Reed received critical acclaim and is considered one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. In 2015, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist.

Lou Reed’s Enduring Legacy

More than a decade after his passing, Lou Reed’s influence on music continues to reverberate. His songs have inspired countless artists and resonated with generations of listeners, cementing his status as one of rock’s most influential figures. As we revisit his 20 best solo songs, we’re reminded of the enduring power of Reed’s music and the lasting impact he left on the world of rock and roll.