Walk on the Wild Side

Walk on the Wild Side is a song written by Lou Reed and released on his second solo album, Transformer, produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson. The song features a distinctive bass guitar riff played by Herbie Flowers, and its lyrics name-check Holly Woodlawn, Candy Darling, Little Joe Dallesandro, and Jackie Curtis, all of whom were associated with the Factory scene of Andy Warhol. The song's success can be attributed to the production skills of David Bowie and the musical talents of Mick Ronson, Herbie Flowers, and John Halsey.

Introduction

The song Walk on the Wild Side is often associated with the glam rock movement of the 1970s, which also included artists like David Bowie, T. Rex, and Roxy Music. The song's themes of transgender identity and prostitution were considered provocative at the time of its release, and it has been cited as an influence by artists such as Depeche Mode, The Cure, and Talking Heads. The song has also been covered by numerous artists, including Mark Knopfler, Elvis Costello, and Annie Lennox. The song's impact can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Iggy Pop, The New York Dolls, and Blondie.

Background

The song's lyrics were inspired by Lou Reed's observations of the transgender and gay communities in New York City during the 1970s, particularly in the Greenwich Village neighborhood. The song name-checks several figures from the Factory scene, including Holly Woodlawn, Candy Darling, and Little Joe Dallesandro, who were all associated with Andy Warhol and his Exploding Plastic Inevitable multimedia events. The song's themes of nonconformity and self-expression were also influenced by the work of William S. Burroughs and Allen Ginsberg, who were both associated with the Beat Generation. The song's background is also linked to the punk rock movement, which included bands like The Ramones, The Sex Pistols, and The Clash.

Composition and Meaning

The song's composition features a distinctive bass guitar riff played by Herbie Flowers, which has been widely imitated and parodied. The song's lyrics are delivered in a deadpan style by Lou Reed, who sings about the lives of transgender and gay individuals in New York City. The song's meaning has been interpreted in various ways, with some seeing it as a celebration of nonconformity and self-expression, while others have criticized its depiction of transgender individuals. The song has been praised by artists such as David Bowie, Iggy Pop, and Debbie Harry, who have all cited it as an influence. The song's composition is also notable for its use of jazz and classical music influences, which can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Brian Eno and Kraftwerk.

Release and Reception

The song was released in November 1972 on Lou Reed's album Transformer, which was produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson. The song was a major commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the United Kingdom and Australia. The song received widespread critical acclaim, with many praising its innovative production and Lou Reed's lyrics. The song has since been certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America and has been named one of the greatest songs of all time by publications such as Rolling Stone and NME. The song's release and reception are also linked to the CBGB music club, which was a hub for punk rock and new wave music.

Cultural Impact

The song's cultural impact has been significant, with its themes of nonconformity and self-expression influencing a wide range of artists and musicians. The song has been name-checked in numerous other songs, including Jay-Z's Empire State of Mind and Kanye West's Jesus Walks. The song has also been featured in various films and television shows, including Trainspotting, The Sopranos, and Breaking Bad. The song's influence can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Lady Gaga, Marilyn Manson, and Rihanna. The song's cultural impact is also linked to the LGBTQ+ community, which has embraced the song as an anthem of self-expression and nonconformity.

Legacy

The song's legacy continues to be felt today, with its influence evident in a wide range of musical genres, from rock music to hip hop. The song has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has been named one of the greatest songs of all time by numerous publications. The song's impact can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Arcade Fire, The Black Keys, and Florence + The Machine. The song's legacy is also linked to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, which has recognized Lou Reed's contribution to rock music. The song's influence can be seen in the work of other artists, such as Bruce Springsteen, Tom Waits, and Nick Cave. Category:Rock music