The Kinks, a cornerstone of the British Invasion alongside The Beatles, carved a unique path in rock history. While contemporaries often leaned into American sounds for transatlantic success, The Kinks, celebrated for anthems like “You Really Got Me,” “Sunny Afternoon,” and “All Day and All of the Night,” resolutely embraced their English heritage. This, combined with their penchant for musical experimentation, set them apart and cemented their influence on generations of artists, from The Clash and Blondie to Van Halen.
However, amidst their impressive discography, one song stands out for its groundbreaking themes and enduring appeal: “Lola.” Widely hailed as a folk-rock masterpiece, “Lola” is perhaps best known for its narrative centered around a surprising encounter with a transwoman or drag queen. Let’s delve into the fascinating story and meaning embedded within the Song Lyrics To Lola By The Kinks.
Unpacking the Lyrics of “Lola”: Meaning and Interpretation
Released in 1970, “Lola” broke barriers by becoming one of the first commercially successful songs to openly address LGBTQ+ themes. The lyrics narrate a night out in London’s Soho district, where the protagonist meets an alluring individual named Lola. As the story unfolds, a revelation emerges, challenging societal norms and expectations: Lola is, in fact, a man.
I met her in a club down in old Soho
Where you drink champagne and it tastes just like coca cola
…
Well, I’m not the world’s most masculine man
But I know what I am and I’m glad I’m a man
And so is Lola
The beauty of “Lola” lies in its overwhelming sense of acceptance and even joy in the face of this unexpected encounter. While the narrator initially expresses confusion – Well, I’m not dumb but I can’t understand/ Why she walked like a woman but talked like a man – the song ultimately transcends mere confusion. It’s a celebration of love and attraction in all its forms, suggesting that genuine connection trumps societal labels and preconceived notions. “Lola” encourages embracing experiences that broaden perspectives and challenge conventional understandings of identity and relationships.
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind Lola
The mastermind behind “Lola” is The Kinks’ lead singer, Ray Davies. Over the years, numerous theories have circulated regarding the real-life inspiration for the character of Lola. One of the most prevalent stories traces back to an experience of The Kinks’ manager, Robert Wace. As the anecdote goes, Wace had a memorable night out in Paris where he was captivated by a woman he danced with, only to later discover she had facial hair.
Davies recounted this story in a New York Times interview, stating, “One of our crew at the time met this beautiful blonde and he took her back to the hotel. In the morning, he saw the stubble growing on her chin. So, he got a surprise!” This surprising encounter reportedly served as a primary catalyst for the song’s narrative.
However, the inspiration wasn’t solely based on a single event. Davies also revealed a broader cultural context that informed “Lola.” He described the influence of British music hall culture, which often embraced cross-dressing and gender fluidity as part of its entertainment. “We used to dress up and have parties at home,” Davies explained, highlighting the acceptance of men dressing as women within his own family and cultural milieu. This environment, combined with his research into drag queens, provided a rich tapestry of influences that shaped the character of Lola.
Davies himself stated, “When I write songs, I put myself in the part… In Lola’s journey, I did a bit of research with drag queens.” This immersive approach allowed him to craft a nuanced and empathetic portrayal, regardless of whether Lola was specifically envisioned as a transwoman, drag queen, or gender non-conforming individual. Ultimately, as Davies suggests, Lola’s identity is less important than the message of acceptance and the celebration of individuality: “I admire anyone who can get up and be what they want to be.”
Controversy and Censorship: The Coca-Cola Lyric
Beyond its progressive themes, “Lola” also courted controversy for a seemingly trivial reason: the original lyric mentioning “Coca-Cola.” In 1970, the BBC famously banned “Lola” from airplay due to its policy against product placement. The lyric, “where you drink champagne and it tastes just like coca cola,” was deemed a violation.
Faced with censorship, Davies cleverly adapted the lyric to “cherry cola” for British radio broadcasts. This quick thinking ensured the song’s airplay while subtly highlighting the absurdity of the censorship itself. The incident underscored the delicate balance between artistic expression and commercial sensitivities, even for a song as seemingly lighthearted as “Lola.”
Lola’s Legacy and Cultural Impact
“Lola” transcended its initial controversy to become a lasting anthem of acceptance and understanding. Its impact resonates not only within LGBTQ+ culture but also in broader discussions about gender identity and societal norms. By presenting a narrative that embraces love and connection beyond traditional boundaries, “Lola” paved the way for greater representation and acceptance in popular music.
The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message. “Lola” remains a powerful reminder to celebrate individuality, challenge prejudices, and embrace love in all its diverse and unexpected forms. Its legacy extends beyond its musical merit, solidifying its place as a cultural touchstone and a significant milestone in the evolution of popular music’s engagement with LGBTQ+ themes.
