Live Performances by Lou Reed
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In early 1973, Lou Reed was riding high on the success of his solo career following his departure from The Velvet Underground. The live recording of "... Read Full Description >
In early 1973, Lou Reed was riding high on the success of his solo career following his departure from The Velvet Underground. The live recording of "Intro / Sweet Jane" captures a pivotal moment as he was transitioning into a more prominent solo artist. This performance is part of the album "Rock 'n' Roll Animal," which was released in February 1974. The album is notable for its dynamic arrangements and showcases Reed's ability to blend rock with theatrical elements, emphasizing the raw energy of his live performances. Around this time, Reed was known for his confessional songwriting style, often reflecting on themes of urban life and personal experience, which made him an influential figure in the glam rock scene. The "Rock 'n' Roll Animal" tour helped solidify his solo identity and laid the groundwork for his subsequent works, marking a rejuvenation in his artistic expression.
![View Lou Reed - Live in Copenhagen 1973 [Full Concert]](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/W1AILXMPvpU/mqdefault.jpg)
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In September 1973, during the live concert at the Falconer Salen in Copenhagen, Lou Reed had recently released his critically acclaimed album "Transfo... Read Full Description >
In September 1973, during the live concert at the Falconer Salen in Copenhagen, Lou Reed had recently released his critically acclaimed album "Transformer" earlier that year, in November 1972. "Transformer" featured hit singles like "Walk on the Wild Side" and showcased Reed's shift towards a more accessible sound, blending glam rock and avant-garde elements. This transition marked a significant moment in his career, as it broadened his appeal beyond the underground scene associated with The Velvet Underground. The Copenhagen concert highlights Reed's exploration of these thematic and musical shifts, with live renditions of tracks from both "Transformer" and his earlier solo work. Notably, Reed's penchant for merging poetic lyrics with rock music was evident, establishing him as a significant figure in the glam rock movement of the early 1970s.
Lou Reed - 'Sweet Jane' Live Performance from Howard Stein's Academy, New York
Howard Stein's Academy
New York, NY, United States
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In December 1973, Lou Reed was in the midst of a transformative phase in his solo career following the dissolution of The Velvet Underground. His 1972... Read Full Description >
In December 1973, Lou Reed was in the midst of a transformative phase in his solo career following the dissolution of The Velvet Underground. His 1972 album, *Transformer,* had widely boosted his recognition, primarily bolstered by the single "Walk on the Wild Side," which showcased his unique blend of rock and avant-garde sensibilities. By the time of the live recording on December 21, 1973, at Howard Stein's Academy in New York, Reed was touring and performing tracks from his upcoming album, *Berlin,* which would be released in 1973. The year was pivotal as it saw Reed further exploring darker themes and intricate narratives in his music, setting the stage for *Berlin's* theatrical concept. Interestingly, the performance of "Sweet Jane," a song originally from The Velvet Underground's catalog, signifies Reed's ongoing connection to his past while asserting his evolving artistic identity, making it a notable moment in his live repertoire during this prolific era.
Lou Reed - Vicious Live Performance at Howard Stein's Academy, New York
Howard Stein's Academy
New York, NY, United States
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In December 1973, during the performance at Howard Stein's Academy in New York, Lou Reed was in the midst of his solo career following his departure f... Read Full Description >
In December 1973, during the performance at Howard Stein's Academy in New York, Lou Reed was in the midst of his solo career following his departure from the Velvet Underground. At this time, he had recently released the album "Berlin" in 1973, which received mixed reviews but has since gained recognition as an important work. This live recording of "Vicious" showcases Reed's shift towards more personal and theatrical themes, reflective of the darker narratives present in "Berlin." Interestingly, this period marked a significant evolution in Reed's sound, characterized by his embrace of storytelling in his lyrics and a more avant-garde approach to rock music, which would influence countless artists in the following years. The performance encapsulates Reed's raw energy and commitment to his artistic vision, making it a notable moment in his live career.
Lou Reed - Full Concert at Olympia, Paris: Featuring Sweet Jane and More
Olympia
Paris, France
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In January 1974, when Lou Reed performed live at the Olympia in Paris, he was in a transitional phase of his career following the release of his criti... Read Full Description >
In January 1974, when Lou Reed performed live at the Olympia in Paris, he was in a transitional phase of his career following the release of his critically acclaimed album "Transformer," which came out in 1972. This album, produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, significantly boosted Reed's commercial success and included hit singles like "Walk on the Wild Side." By the time of the Olympia concert, Reed had begun to shift towards a more experimental sound, as evidenced in the 1973 album "Sally Can't Dance." The Paris performance showcased Reed's dynamic stage presence and his ability to blend rock with a more avant-garde style, particularly with tracks like "Sweet Jane" and "I'm Waiting for the Man." Reed's artistic evolution during this period highlights his willingness to push boundaries, and the Olympia concert remains a notable event in his extensive catalog.
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In January 1974, when Lou Reed performed "Sweet Jane" live in Paris, he was actively promoting his album "Sally Can't Dance," which had been released ... Read Full Description >
In January 1974, when Lou Reed performed "Sweet Jane" live in Paris, he was actively promoting his album "Sally Can't Dance," which had been released in August 1974. This album represented a significant period in Reed's career as it marked his first release after his time with The Velvet Underground and continued to expand his solo artistry. The live performance in Paris showcases Reed's distinctive blend of rock and lyrical storytelling, which captivated the audience and highlighted his evolution as a solo artist. Notably, "Sally Can't Dance" would go on to reach the Top 10 on the Billboard charts, solidifying his status as a commercially viable musician. The performance is emblematic of Reed's raw and provocative style, as he engaged with themes of urban life and identity, further reflecting the cultural landscape of the 1970s.
Lou Reed: Full Concert Live at The Bottom Line, NYC - 1983
The Bottom Line
New York City, NY, United States
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In October 1983, Lou Reed was in a dynamic phase of his career, having released the album "The Blue Mask" earlier that year, which is often regarded a... Read Full Description >
In October 1983, Lou Reed was in a dynamic phase of his career, having released the album "The Blue Mask" earlier that year, which is often regarded as one of his finest works. This live performance at The Bottom Line showcases the strength of his creative resurgence during this time, featuring his powerful collaboration with guitarist Robert Quine, bassist Fernando Saunders, and drummer Fred Maher. Reed's music during this period marked a return to a rawer, more rock-oriented sound, characterized by introspective lyrics and compelling guitar work. The concert not only highlights his artistic evolution but also reflects the critical recognition he garnered in the early '80s, especially following a dip in commercial success earlier in his career. The energy and arrangement of the live set complement Reed's deep, poetic storytelling, making this performance a significant moment in his ongoing journey as a vital figure in rock music.
Lou Reed - Full Concert at The Palace, Los Angeles - Featuring Sweet Jane and More
The Palace
Los Angeles, CA, United States
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In late 1983, Lou Reed was in a unique phase of his career marked by a resurgence in his live performances and a blend of older material with newer so... Read Full Description >
In late 1983, Lou Reed was in a unique phase of his career marked by a resurgence in his live performances and a blend of older material with newer songs. The live recording from November 30, 1983, at The Palace in Los Angeles captures Reed during his "New Sensations" tour, shortly after the release of his 1984 album "New Sensations." This album reflects a more polished sound and a shift towards a more commercial approach in his music, showcasing tracks like "I Love You, Suzanne" and "My Red Joystick." Interestingly, during this period, Reed was embracing a more vibrant stage presence, which is evident in the dynamic performance featured in this recording. The 1980s were transformative for Reed, as he sought to reach new audiences while revisiting and reinterpreting his classic hits like "Walk on the Wild Side," ensuring his significant legacy in rock music continued to evolve.
Lou Reed - Full Concert at Capitol Theatre Performing 'Sweet Jane' and More
Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, USA
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On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, during a pivotal period in his career. Prior to this live rec... Read Full Description >
On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, during a pivotal period in his career. Prior to this live recording, Reed had released the album "The Blue Mask" in 1982, which marked a significant resurgence in his artistic credibility and featured a more polished sound and complex themes. By the time of the 1984 concert, Reed was promoting his album "New Sensations," released earlier that year, which showcased a vibrant, pop-oriented style and reflected his evolving musical direction. This phase was characterized by a blend of rock and new wave influences, further broadening his appeal to a wider audience. Notably, Reed's live performances during this era were marked by his charismatic stage presence and a mix of both classic and newer material, illustrating his ability to engage audiences with a diverse repertoire while navigating the complexities of his artistic identity.
Lou Reed's Live Performance of 'Rock 'N' Roll' at Capitol Theatre, Passaic
Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, United States
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On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, showcasing his enduring prowess as a live performer. This per... Read Full Description >
On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, showcasing his enduring prowess as a live performer. This period marked a significant moment in Reed's career, as it followed the release of his acclaimed album "The Blue Mask" in 1982, which is often regarded as a return to form for the artist after a series of inconsistent projects. By 1984, Reed was collaborating closely with guitarist Robert Quine, who played a pivotal role in shaping the sound of Reed's live performances during this phase. Quine's unique style complemented Reed's avant-garde sensibilities, contributing to an energetic interpretation of classics like "Rock 'N' Roll." This performance illustrates Reed's continued evolution as an artist during the 1980s, blending rock with complex themes, while remaining a significant figure in the music landscape post-Velvet Underground.
Lou Reed - Satellite Of Love Live at Capitol Theatre, Passaic
Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, United States
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On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed "Satellite of Love" live at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey. At this time in his career, Reed had... Read Full Description >
On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed "Satellite of Love" live at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey. At this time in his career, Reed had recently released his album "The Blue Mask" in 1982, which marked a significant resurgence in his popularity, featuring a more polished sound and collaboration with guitarists like Robert Quine, who was part of the lineup for this performance. This 1984 concert falls within an era where Reed was experimenting with theatrical elements in his performances while remaining a prominent figure in alternative rock. Notably, his work during this period included powerful, introspective lyrics often reflective of his complex artistic persona, and concerts like this showcased his energetic stage presence and musical evolution post-Velvet Underground. Reed's ability to blend rock with avant-garde influences was particularly evident in his live performances, drawing both old fans and new listeners alike.
Lou Reed Performs 'Walk On The Wild Side' Live at Capitol Theatre
Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, United States
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On September 25, 1984, during the live recording at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, Lou Reed was in a transitional phase of his career. Th... Read Full Description >
On September 25, 1984, during the live recording at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, Lou Reed was in a transitional phase of his career. This performance came shortly after the release of his album "The Blue Mask," which debuted in 1982 and was widely praised for its raw sound and introspective lyrics. The live show showcased Reed's enduring popularity and artistic evolution post-Velvet Underground, featuring the iconic track "Walk on the Wild Side," which remains one of his hallmark songs. Notably, Reed's collaboration with guitarist Robert Quine during this period added a distinctive edge to his performances, as Quine was known for his innovative playing style. The early 1980s marked a significant resurgence in Reed's career, affirming his continued relevance in the rock scene and his ability to attract both old and new fans.
Lou Reed Performs 'Coney Island Baby' Live at Capitol Theatre
Capitol Theatre
Passaic, NJ, United States
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On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, during a period marked by a resurgence in his career. This li... Read Full Description >
On September 25, 1984, Lou Reed performed at the Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, during a period marked by a resurgence in his career. This live recording features "Coney Island Baby," a track from his 1976 album of the same name. By the early 1980s, Reed had transitioned through various musical styles and faced challenges, but he had also experienced a creative renewal, releasing the album "The Blue Mask" in 1982, which received critical acclaim. This period was characterized by a focus on more personal and introspective themes in his songwriting. The live performance further exemplifies Reed's eclectic approach, showcasing his collaboration with guitarist Robert Quine, known for his innovative playing style. Reed's ability to capture the essence of urban life and personal struggles continues to resonate with audiences, making this performance a significant moment in his discography.
Lou Reed - Live Performance of 'A Walk On The Wild Side' at Farm Aid
Farm Aid
Champaign, Illinois, United States
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By the time Lou Reed performed "A Walk On The Wild Side" at Farm Aid in 1985, he was already an established figure in rock music, known for his solo c... Read Full Description >
By the time Lou Reed performed "A Walk On The Wild Side" at Farm Aid in 1985, he was already an established figure in rock music, known for his solo career as well as his time with The Velvet Underground. Before this performance, Reed released the album "The Blue Mask" in 1982, which marked a significant return to form for him, featuring a raw sound and introspective lyrics. The live performance at Farm Aid came during a period when Reed was actively engaging with social issues, paralleling the concert's mission to support family farmers in the U.S. This reflects Reed's own awareness of social themes, which permeated his work. Reed's rendition of "A Walk On The Wild Side," a song that addresses complex themes of identity and urban life, resonated with the audience, showcasing his continued relevance and ability to captivate listeners with poignant storytelling through music.
Lou Reed - Full Concert at Giants Stadium featuring 'Rock And Roll', 'Walk On The Wild Side'
Giants Stadium
East Rutherford, NJ, United States
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On June 15, 1986, Lou Reed performed a live concert at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, during a pivotal moment in his career. This conc... Read Full Description >
On June 15, 1986, Lou Reed performed a live concert at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, during a pivotal moment in his career. This concert came shortly after the release of his album *Mistral Wind*, which showcased his evolving sound post-Velvet Underground. The mid-1980s was a time of significant transition for Reed; he was moving away from the experimental rock of his earlier years and embracing a more accessible pop sound. The concert setlist, opening with “Rock and Roll,” highlighted his key hits alongside newer material. Notably, Reed had just participated in the Live Aid benefit concert the previous year, which brought increased attention to his solo work. Following this period, he would go on to release *New York* in 1989, which would solidify his relevance in the rock scene of the late '80s and early '90s. The concert at Giants Stadium marked a blend of old and new, capturing Reed's artistic journey during this transformative time.
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In July 1986, Lou Reed performed a live concert at the Ritz in New York, showcasing a pivotal moment in his career. This performance came shortly afte... Read Full Description >
In July 1986, Lou Reed performed a live concert at the Ritz in New York, showcasing a pivotal moment in his career. This performance came shortly after the release of his album "Mistral," which was his ninth studio album, released in 1986. "Mistral" marked Reed's continued evolution as an artist, embracing a more commercial sound while still maintaining his distinctive lyrical style. Interestingly, this concert featured songs that highlighted his early influence on punk rock and alternative music, such as "Sweet Jane," a Velvet Underground classic. By this time, Reed was reestablished as a solo artist, having transcended the initial commercial struggles of the late 1970s and early 1980s, and he was beginning to regain the critical respect he deserved. The Ritz concert encapsulates his dynamic stage presence and the rich tapestry of his musical journey.
LOU REED Live 1989 Montreal Full Concert - Featuring DIRT BLVD and More
Theatre St. Denis
Montreal, QC, Canada
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In November 1988, during the performance at the Theatre St. Denis in Montreal, Lou Reed was promoting his album *New York*, which was released earlier... Read Full Description >
In November 1988, during the performance at the Theatre St. Denis in Montreal, Lou Reed was promoting his album *New York*, which was released earlier that same year. This album marked a significant return to form for Reed, characterized by its lyrical candor and a pronounced political edge, capturing the ethos of New York City during that era. The live recording features songs from this album, including "Dirt Blvd" and "Hold On," both of which reflect Reed’s engagement with social issues and his personal narrative. Notably, *New York* was praised for its storytelling and raw emotional depth, reinvigorating Reed's career and introducing him to a new generation of listeners. This concert exemplifies Reed's distinctive style, combining elements of rock, punk, and spoken word, and showcases his ability to convey complex themes through music during a pivotal moment in his artistic journey.
Lou Reed and B.B. King Perform 'Dirty Boulevard' Live in Concert
California, United States
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In January 1990, Lou Reed was enjoying a significant period in his career, having released the album "New York" just a year prior, in 1989. This album... Read Full Description >
In January 1990, Lou Reed was enjoying a significant period in his career, having released the album "New York" just a year prior, in 1989. This album marked a creative resurgence for Reed, regarded as one of his best works, and focused on themes of urban life and social issues in New York City—perfectly exemplified in the live performance of "Dirty Boulevard" with B.B. King. The collaboration with King showcases Reed's ability to blend genres and highlights his respect for blues music, further underscored by the all-star band backing the performance. During this time, Reed was also actively involved in the music scene following his influential tenure with The Velvet Underground, solidifying his status as a solo artist. This particular live performance captures Reed at the peak of his talents, delivering powerful commentary through his lyrics while sharing the stage with another musical icon.
Lou Reed Performs 'Dirty Blvd.' Live at Farm Aid 1990 in Indianapolis
Farm Aid
Indianapolis, Indiana, United States
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In 1990, Lou Reed performed "Dirty Blvd." live at Farm Aid in Indianapolis, marking an interesting period in his career. This performance followed the... Read Full Description >
In 1990, Lou Reed performed "Dirty Blvd." live at Farm Aid in Indianapolis, marking an interesting period in his career. This performance followed the release of his album "New York," which came out in 1989 and is often regarded as one of his best works. "New York" showcased Reed's storytelling prowess and tackled social and political issues of the time, which aligns with the mission of Farm Aid to support struggling family farmers. The song "Dirty Blvd." itself encapsulates urban despair and resilience, themes that resonated deeply in the context of Farm Aid. Notably, this performance also highlighted Reed's evolution from his earlier days with the Velvet Underground to a more mature and socially aware solo artist, reflecting both personal and societal struggles in his music. Reed's participation in such a significant charitable event also underscores his willingness to use his platform for advocacy, further emphasizing his impact on both music and social causes.
LOU REED Live Concert: 'MAGIC & LOSS' Full Concert Performance
Bray Studios
London, United Kingdom
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In 1992, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Magic and Loss," which was released the same year as the live performance recorded at Bray Studios in Londo... Read Full Description >
In 1992, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Magic and Loss," which was released the same year as the live performance recorded at Bray Studios in London. This album, inspired by the deaths of two friends, reflects Reed’s exploration of themes surrounding loss and mortality, making the intensity of the live performance particularly significant. "Magic and Loss" marked a creative resurgence for Reed, following a period of less commercial success in the late 1980s. The concert features several tracks from the album, such as "Magic & Loss," showcasing his reflective lyrical content and distinctive guitar work. Additionally, Reed’s collaboration with producer and guitarist Mike Rathke during this era highlights his return to a more raw and experimental sound. Reed's live performances were often characterized by their emotional intensity and connection with the audience, making this 1992 recording a compelling snapshot of his artistry at the time.
Lou Reed - Perfect Day (Live) at Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux, ZZ, Switzerland
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In July 2000, Lou Reed performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival, a pivotal moment in his career as he was experiencing a period of renewed recognition ... Read Full Description >
In July 2000, Lou Reed performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival, a pivotal moment in his career as he was experiencing a period of renewed recognition and artistic exploration. Before this live recording, Reed had released the album "Ecstasy" in 2000, which showcased a more introspective and experimental side of his songwriting. This era also found him revisiting his classic repertoire, as evidenced by his performance of "Perfect Day," a song that has become one of his signature tracks. The Montreux Jazz Festival, known for its diverse lineup and commitment to high-quality performances, provided a fitting backdrop for Reed's blend of rock and avant-garde sounds. Moreover, the recording is part of the Claude Nobs Foundation collection, which aligns with his legacy as an influential figure in the music industry, and the performance has been preserved as part of the UNESCO Memory of the World program, highlighting its cultural significance.
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In July 2000, during the performance at the Montreux Festival, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Ecstasy," which was released earlier that same year. ... Read Full Description >
In July 2000, during the performance at the Montreux Festival, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Ecstasy," which was released earlier that same year. This live recording captures Reed's reflective and experimental style, showcasing tracks from "Ecstasy" alongside selections from his extensive catalog, including classics like "Romeo Had Juliette." Notably, this era demonstrated Reed's return to more guitar-driven music while still engaging in introspective and sometimes avant-garde themes. The Montreux performance emphasized Reed’s continued evolution as an artist, exploring a mix of rock and lyrical storytelling that had defined his long career. Reed's ability to connect with audiences while delving into personal and socially significant issues was evident in his live interpretations during this phase, making it a significant moment in his discography.
Lou Reed - Live at Montreux 2000 (Full Concert) featuring 'Perfect Day'
Montreux Casino
Montreux, Switzerland
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In July 2000, during the live recording at the Montreux Casino, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Ecstasy," which had been released earlier that same ... Read Full Description >
In July 2000, during the live recording at the Montreux Casino, Lou Reed was promoting his album "Ecstasy," which had been released earlier that same year. This concert showcased several tracks from the album, including "Ecstasy," "Modern Dance," and "Riptide," illustrating Reed's continued evolution as an artist. Notably, "Ecstasy" marked a return to a more rock-oriented sound for Reed, reflecting a mix of experimentation and lyrical introspection that characterized much of his later work. The live performance also highlights Reed's distinctive blend of avant-garde sensibility and accessible musicality. Additionally, the Montreux performance came at a time when Reed enjoyed a resurgent interest in his music, demonstrating his enduring impact on the rock genre. The setlist reveals a mix of newer compositions along with his classic style, affirming Reed's ability to captivate audiences well into his career.
Lou Reed Performance on Saturday Night Live
Saturday Night Live
New York, NY, United States
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On May 12, 2001, Lou Reed made a memorable appearance on "Saturday Night Live," a significant moment in his career as it showcased his enduring impact... Read Full Description >
On May 12, 2001, Lou Reed made a memorable appearance on "Saturday Night Live," a significant moment in his career as it showcased his enduring impact on music. Just prior to this appearance, Reed released "The Raven" in 2003, an ambitious concept album inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe, indicating his ongoing creativity and ability to innovate even later in his career. At the time of the SNL performance, Reed notably dispelled false rumors about his death, adding a heightened sense of awareness to his public persona. This moment underscored Reed's unique status in rock history as a pioneering figure whose legacy had a substantial influence on musicians across generations. This performance not only served as a reaffirmation of his presence in the music industry but also highlighted his ability to engage with current events, keeping him relevant to both fans and newcomers alike.
Lou Reed and Antony Hegarty Perform 'Perfect Day' on Later... with Jools Holland
BBC Studios
United Kingdom
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In January 2003, Lou Reed made a notable appearance on "Later... with Jools Holland," performing his iconic song "Perfect Day" alongside Antony Hegart... Read Full Description >
In January 2003, Lou Reed made a notable appearance on "Later... with Jools Holland," performing his iconic song "Perfect Day" alongside Antony Hegarty. This performance came after the release of Reed’s album "The Raven" in 2003, which was a theatrical piece based on Edgar Allan Poe's works. At this stage in his career, Reed was seen as a revered elder statesman of rock, having had a profound influence on many genres and artists. His collaboration with Antony, known for his emotive vocals, showcased Reed's continued relevance in contemporary music. Furthermore, "Perfect Day," originally from Reed's 1972 album "Transformer," has endured as a timeless classic, often associated with themes of bittersweet beauty. This live performance highlighted not just Reed's prolific legacy but also his ability to connect across generations, reaffirming his status as a pioneering and enduring force in music.
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In January 2007, during the live performance captured in the "Sweet Jane" video, Lou Reed was well into his career, marked by a rich history of innova... Read Full Description >
In January 2007, during the live performance captured in the "Sweet Jane" video, Lou Reed was well into his career, marked by a rich history of innovation and influence in rock music. The concert took place shortly after the release of his album "The Raven," which came out in 2003 and was an ambitious project blending spoken word and music, inspired by the works of Edgar Allan Poe. This era showcased Reed's continued artistry, moving beyond his iconic work with the Velvet Underground and exploring themes of existentialism and storytelling in his songs. Notably, "Sweet Jane" is one of his most celebrated tracks, first recorded in 1969 and often revisited in his performances, indicating its lasting significance in his repertoire. By 2007, Reed had established a legacy as a pioneering figure in alternative rock, and his ability to continue captivating audiences with classic songs like "Sweet Jane" reflected his enduring talent.
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In July 2011, Lou Reed was nearing the end of his illustrious career, as demonstrated by his performance during his last tour, which included a concer... Read Full Description >
In July 2011, Lou Reed was nearing the end of his illustrious career, as demonstrated by his performance during his last tour, which included a concert in Lyon, France. Just prior to this live recording, Reed had released the album "Lulu" in late 2011, a collaboration with Metallica that showcased his willingness to experiment with different genres and sounds, despite receiving mixed reviews from critics. During the concert, Reed performed several classic tracks, highlighting his significant influence on rock music and his distinct artistic vision. Notably, at this point in his career, Reed's health challenges were becoming apparent, which contextualizes the emotional depth of his performances. The concert is a poignant reminder of his unique artistry and the enduring legacy he left behind, cementing his status as a pivotal figure in the evolution of rock music.
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The live recording "New York" captures Lou Reed during a pivotal period in his career, specifically during the late 1980s. This album was released in ... Read Full Description >
The live recording "New York" captures Lou Reed during a pivotal period in his career, specifically during the late 1980s. This album was released in 1989, marking a significant return to form for Reed after a series of mixed successes in the preceding years. "New York" features themes of urban life and personal storytelling, showcasing Reed's knack for lyrical depth. Before this album, Reed had put out "Mistrial" in 1986, which did not achieve the same acclaim. Following "New York," Reed continued to explore diverse musical styles, though none quite matched the critical success of this work. One interesting fact is that "New York" is often regarded as one of Reed's most cohesive and accessible albums, highlighting his ability to critique society while remaining relatable to listeners. This live performance encapsulates the raw energy and insight Reed was known for, affirming his status as a significant figure in rock music.
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Before the live recording of "White Light, White Heat," which features the collaboration between Lou Reed and David Bowie, Reed had recently released ... Read Full Description >
Before the live recording of "White Light, White Heat," which features the collaboration between Lou Reed and David Bowie, Reed had recently released his influential album "Transformer" in 1972. This album marked a significant turn in his career, showcasing a more polished sound and gaining wider commercial success, largely due to Bowie's production work and the hit single "Walk on the Wild Side." "White Light, White Heat," originally by The Velvet Underground, emphasizes Reed's roots in the avant-garde, and this performance underscores the camaraderie between Reed and Bowie during a period when Reed was solidifying his solo identity after his departure from The Velvet Underground. Their collaboration is a testament to the vibrant exchange of ideas in the glam rock scene of the early 1970s, highlighting Reed's continuous evolution as an artist during this dynamic phase of his career.
LOU REED & DAVID BOWIE - Live Performance of 'Dirty Blvd.' at Wilshire Hotel
Wilshire Hotel
Los Angeles, CA, United States
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In 1989, Lou Reed was in a transformative phase of his career, having just released the critically acclaimed album "New York." This record marked a si... Read Full Description >
In 1989, Lou Reed was in a transformative phase of his career, having just released the critically acclaimed album "New York." This record marked a significant return to form for Reed, combining his trademark storytelling with sharp social commentary about life in the city. The live recording of "Dirty Blvd." features Reed performing alongside David Bowie at the Wilshire Hotel in Los Angeles, further highlighting his artistic resurgence during this period. The song itself reflects the gritty realities faced by individuals living on society's fringes, a recurring theme in Reed's work. His collaboration with Bowie, a fellow icon of rock and avant-garde music, showcases the convergence of their artistic visions, adding an extra layer of significance to both artists' legacies. This performance not only underscores Reed's prominence in the late '80s music landscape but also illustrates the enduring bond between these two musical pioneers.
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The live recording of "Sweet Jane" reflects a pivotal moment in Lou Reed's career during the early 1990s, particularly surrounding his 1992 album, "Ma... Read Full Description >
The live recording of "Sweet Jane" reflects a pivotal moment in Lou Reed's career during the early 1990s, particularly surrounding his 1992 album, "Magic and Loss." Prior to this release, Reed had undergone significant evolution as an artist, moving beyond his roots with the Velvet Underground. During the time of this performance, he was gaining recognition for his introspective songwriting and engaging stage presence. "Sweet Jane," originally a staple from his Velvet Underground days, showcases Reed's knack for storytelling through music, blending rock with poignant lyrics. Notably, his ability to reinterpret such an iconic song in a live setting demonstrates his ongoing connection to his earlier work while also signifying his growth as a solo artist over the years. This performance likely resonates with fans, reflecting both nostalgia and new insights into his artistic journey.
Metallica and Lou Reed Perform 'Sweet Jane' at Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
New York, NY, United States
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At the time of the live recording of "Sweet Jane" featuring Lou Reed and Metallica at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary shows in 2009, R... Read Full Description >
At the time of the live recording of "Sweet Jane" featuring Lou Reed and Metallica at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame 25th Anniversary shows in 2009, Reed had recently released his album "Hudson River Wind Meditations" in 2007, a departure from his more traditional rock roots into ambient and experimental soundscapes. This performance was significant as it showcased Reed's enduring influence on rock music and his willingness to collaborate with contemporary artists like Metallica, bridging different generations of rock. The union of Reed's lyrical prowess with Metallica’s heavy instrumentation highlighted his versatility as an artist. Additionally, the event was notable as it celebrated Reed's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, affirming his legacy as one of the pioneering figures in alternative rock and the avant-garde music scene.
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