Lou Reed – Walk on the Wild Side

About The Song

“Walk on the Wild Side” is a classic song by Lou Reed, released in 1972 as a single from his second solo album, “Transformer.” The song is known for its distinctive bass line, spoken-word lyrics, and its exploration of taboo subjects, making it a landmark in Reed’s career and a seminal piece in the realm of glam rock.

Five facts about “Walk on the Wild Side”:

Andy Warhol Connection: “Walk on the Wild Side” was produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, and it was inspired by characters from Andy Warhol’s studio, The Factory. The song’s lyrics mention several personalities associated with Warhol, including Holly Woodlawn, Candy Darling, Joe Dallesandro, and others.
Controversial Lyrics: The song’s lyrics address taboo subjects such as transgender issues, sexuality, and drug use, making it a groundbreaking and controversial piece at the time. Despite its explicit content, the song received widespread acclaim for its boldness and social commentary.
Innovative Arrangement: “Walk on the Wild Side” features an iconic double bass riff played by Herbie Flowers, which has become one of the most recognizable bass lines in rock history. The innovative arrangement, coupled with Reed’s deadpan vocal delivery, contributes to the song’s unique sound.
Chart Success: While the song didn’t initially fare well on the charts, “Walk on the Wild Side” gained popularity over time and has since become one of Lou Reed’s signature songs. It eventually reached a broader audience and is often regarded as one of the greatest songs in the glam rock genre.
Cultural Impact: Beyond its musical influence, “Walk on the Wild Side” has left a lasting mark on popular culture. It has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone. The song’s title has become a common phrase in English, referring to adventurous or unconventional behavior.

Video

Lyrics

Holly came from Miami, F.L.A.
Hitch-hiked her way across the U.S.A.
Plucked her eyebrows on the way
Shaved her legs and then he was a she

She says, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
Said, “Hey, honey
Take a walk on the wild side”

Candy came from out on the Island
In the back room she was everybody’s darling
But she never lost her head
Even when she was giving head

She says, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
Said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”

And the colored girls go
“Doo do doo do doo do do doo…”

Little Joe never once gave it away
Everybody had to pay and pay
A hustle here and a hustle there
New York City’s the place

Where they said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, Joe
Take a walk on the wild side”

Sugar Plum Fairy came and hit the streets
Looking for soul food and a place to eat
Went to the Apollo
You should’ve seen them go, go, go

They said, “Hey, sugar
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”, alright
Huh

Jackie is just speeding away
Thought she was James Dean for a day
Then I guess she had to crash
Valium would have helped that bash

She said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, honey
Take a walk on the wild side”

And the colored girls say
“Doo do doo do doo do do doo…”