About the song
Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” is an iconic song that epitomizes the spirit of the 1970s and continues to resonate with audiences today. Released in 1972 as part of Reed’s second solo album, “Transformer”, the track stands out for its candid portrayal of characters from New York’s underground scene.
“Walk on the Wild Side” delves into taboo subjects such as gender identity, sexuality, and societal norms, all wrapped in Reed’s trademark blend of rock, pop, and experimental styles. The song’s lyrics introduce listeners to colorful personalities like Holly Woodlawn, Candy Darling, and Jackie Curtis—transgender individuals who were part of Andy Warhol’s inner circle. By celebrating these marginalized figures, Reed challenged mainstream conventions and brought their stories into the spotlight.
Musically, “Walk on the Wild Side” features a laid-back groove with a prominent bass line and minimalist instrumentation, allowing Reed’s spoken-word style vocals to shine. His narrative delivery, infused with both detachment and empathy, invites listeners to explore the lives of the characters he portrays. The song’s chorus, with its famous refrain “doo doo doo doo doo doo doo doo,” adds a catchy hook that contrasts with the song’s deeper themes.
Socially, “Walk on the Wild Side” had a profound impact by humanizing and normalizing aspects of LGBTQ+ culture at a time when such topics were often taboo in mainstream media. Through Reed’s storytelling, the song not only challenged societal norms but also provided visibility and representation for communities that were frequently marginalized.
The legacy of “Walk on the Wild Side” extends beyond its initial release. It has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be referenced in popular culture, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. Its frank exploration of identity and acceptance remains relevant in discussions about diversity and inclusion today.
In conclusion, Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” is more than a song—it’s a narrative masterpiece that invites listeners to explore the lives of unconventional characters with empathy and understanding. Its impact on music and society underscores its significance as a timeless anthem for acceptance and celebration of diversity. Whether rediscovering it or hearing it for the first time, the song’s allure lies in its ability to provoke thought and evoke emotion, making it a pivotal work in Reed’s illustrious career and in the broader landscape of popular music.
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Lyrics
Holly came from Miami, F.L.A.Hitch-hiked her way across the U.S.A.Plucked her eyebrows on the wayShaved her legs and then he was a sheShe says, “Hey, babeTake a walk on the wild side”Said, “Hey, honeyTake a walk on the wild side”Candy came from out on the IslandIn the back room she was everybody’s darlingBut she never lost her headEven when she was giving headShe says, “Hey, babeTake a walk on the wild side”Said, “Hey, babeTake 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 awayEverybody had to pay and payA hustle here and a hustle thereNew York City’s the placeWhere they said, “Hey, babeTake a walk on the wild side”I said, “Hey, JoeTake a walk on the wild side”Sugar Plum Fairy came and hit the streetsLooking for soul food and a place to eatWent to the ApolloYou should’ve seen them go, go, goThey said, “Hey, sugarTake a walk on the wild side”I said, “Hey, babeTake a walk on the wild side”, alrightHuhJackie is just speeding awayThought she was James Dean for a dayThen I guess she had to crashValium would have helped that bashShe said, “Hey, babeTake a walk on the wild side”I said, “Hey, honeyTake a walk on the wild side”And the colored girls say“Doo do doo do doo do do doo…”