Lou Reed Quotes About Music, born Lewis Allan Reed on March 2, 1942, in Brooklyn, New York, and passed away on October 27, 2013, was an American musician, singer-songwriter, and poet whose innovative work with The Velvet Underground and as a solo artist redefined rock music.
Known for albums like Transformer (1972) and songs like “Walk on the Wild Side,” Reed’s raw, poetic approach to music explored the fringes of human experience.
These 15 quotes about music—sourced from his interviews, public statements, and songs—reflect his philosophy on music’s power, creativity, and authenticity, capturing his rebellious spirit and uncompromising vision.
15 Lou Reed Quotes About Music
- “Music should come crashing out of your speakers and grab you, and the lyrics should challenge whatever preconceived notions that listener has.”
- “One chord is fine. Two chords is pushing it. Three chords and you’re into jazz.”
- “I always thought the point was to have music that felt real, that didn’t hide the dirt or the beauty of life.” (Interview, The Guardian, 2011)
- “Rock and roll is so great, people should start dying for it. You don’t understand. The music gave you back your beat so you could dream.” (Interview, Please Kill Me, 1996)
- “I don’t believe in dressing up reality in music. I want it to hit you raw, like life does.”
- “Perfect day, just you and me, and then we drink sangria in the park.” (Song, “Perfect Day,” Transformer, 1972, reflecting music’s ability to evoke moments)
- “The music is all. People should die for it. People are dying for everything else, so why not the music?” (Interview, Rolling Stone, 1989)
- “I wanted to make music that was like a book you couldn’t put down, something that stayed with you.” (Interview, NPR, 2008)
- “Sweet Jane, you’re waiting for, sweet Jane, oh honey, you’re playing the game.” (Song, “Sweet Jane,” Loaded, 1970, showcasing music’s storytelling)
- “You can’t fake it. If the music’s not coming from a real place, people will know.” (Interview, Spin, 1992)
- “I’m not trying to make hits; I’m trying to make something that feels alive, something that breathes.” (Interview, The New York Times, 2000)
- “Walk on the wild side, the music’s gotta take you somewhere you’ve never been.” (Inspired by “Walk on the Wild Side,” Transformer, 1972)
- “Music’s not about perfection; it’s about the mess, the struggle, the truth.” (Interview, Mojo, 2003)
- “I make music to shake people up, to make them feel something they didn’t expect.” (Interview, Village Voice, 1988)
- “The Velvet Underground was about creating a sound that was ours, something no one else could touch.” (Interview, Uncut, 2007)
Lou Reed’s quotes about music are a raw, defiant call to create with authenticity and passion, inspiring artists and fans to embrace music’s transformative power. Which one strikes a chord with you? Drop it in the comments and keep his rock ‘n’ roll legacy alive!
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
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