Lou Reed, a name synonymous with the raw, urban sound of the Velvet Underground, might not be the first artist that springs to mind when you think of mainstream hits. Yet, against all odds, he gifted the world “Walk on the Wild Side,” a song that defied conventions and became an enduring anthem. This wasn’t just another track; it was a sonic snapshot of a counter-culture world, delivered with a catchy melody that belied its subversive lyrical content.
Before “Walk on the Wild Side” propelled him to international fame, Reed’s journey was far from glamorous. Post-Velvet Underground, he found himself back at his parents’ home, working as a typist. This stark contrast – from avant-garde rocker to suburban office worker – underscores the improbable nature of his subsequent breakthrough. Signing with RCA Records, he initially struggled to find his footing as a solo artist. His debut album barely registered on the public radar.
Everything changed in 1972 with the release of Transformer, an album produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson. This collaboration proved to be the catalyst Reed needed. From this album emerged “Walk on the Wild Side,” a song that, remarkably, became a hit despite its lyrical exploration of taboo subjects. Transgender identities, drug use, male prostitution, and oral sex were not typical radio fare in 1972. Yet, the song’s infectious groove and Reed’s nonchalant delivery charmed its way into the mainstream. As Reed himself wryly noted, he knew his obituary would likely begin with the song’s iconic “Doot, di-doot, di-doot” bassline.
The song’s title was inspired by Nelson Algren’s novel of the same name, but the characters – Holly, Candy, Sugar Plum Fairy, and others – were drawn from Reed’s experiences within Andy Warhol’s Factory scene. This personal connection imbued the song with authenticity and a sense of lived experience, even as it touched upon themes that were considered underground at the time.
Musically, “Walk on the Wild Side” is deceptively simple yet incredibly effective. Built on just a couple of chords and anchored by Herbie Flowers’s brilliant double bass lines (both acoustic and fretless Fender Jazz Bass), the song creates a hypnotic, almost film noir atmosphere. The saxophone solo by Ronnie Ross, who famously taught Bowie to play the instrument, adds another layer of cool sophistication. And the “colored girls” backing vocals, sung by the white British trio Thunder Thighs, remain a point of discussion and re-evaluation in contemporary contexts, highlighting the complexities of the song’s historical moment.
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While the original recording of “Walk on the Wild Side” is undeniably iconic, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to be reinterpreted. Suzanne Vega, a fellow New Yorker known for her storytelling in song, offers a compelling live version from her 2020 album An Evening of New York Songs and Stories. Recorded in 2019, Vega’s rendition strips the song down, emphasizing the narrative and highlighting the inherent New York sensibility within the lyrics. Her performance brings a different kind of intimacy to the song, showcasing its lyrical strength and timeless cool.
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Another fascinating interpretation comes from jazz singer Karen Souza. Known for her smooth, lounge-style covers, Souza transforms “Walk on the Wild Side” into a sophisticated, jazzy number. Her version invites a different kind of listening experience, one that’s perhaps more suited to a cocktail lounge than a gritty New York street corner. Souza’s rendition demonstrates the song’s versatility and its ability to transcend genres.
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“Walk on the Wild Side” remains more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. From its unlikely journey to mainstream success to its diverse interpretations by artists like Suzanne Vega and Karen Souza, the song continues to fascinate and resonate. It stands as a testament to Lou Reed’s unique artistry and the enduring power of a song that dared to explore the fringes of society and bring them into the spotlight. Whether you prefer the raw energy of the original, the intimate storytelling of Vega’s version, or the jazzy coolness of Souza’s rendition, “Walk on the Wild Side” invites you to listen, reflect, and perhaps, take your own walk on the wild side.
