Lou Reed Quotes, 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, best known as the frontman of the influential rock band The Velvet Underground and for his groundbreaking solo career.
With iconic songs like “Walk on the Wild Side” and albums such as Transformer (1972) and Berlin (1973), Reed’s raw, poetic lyrics explored themes of urban life, love, addiction, and rebellion, shaping alternative and punk rock.
These 15 quotes—sourced from his songs, interviews, and public statements—reflect his sharp wit, unapologetic authenticity, and profound insights on music, life, and art, capturing his enigmatic and rebellious spirit.
15 Lou Reed Quotes
- “I don’t believe in dressing up reality. I don’t believe in using makeup to make things look smoother.”
- “Holly came from Miami, F.L.A., hitch-hiked her way across the U.S.A.” (Song, “Walk on the Wild Side,” Transformer, 1972)
- “My week beats your year.”
- “I always thought that if I made it, I was going to make it on my own terms.”
- “I’m waiting for my man, twenty-six dollars in my hand.” (Song, “I’m Waiting for the Man,” The Velvet Underground & Nico, 1967)
- “There’s a bit of magic in everything and then some loss to even things out.”
- “Perfect day, just you and me, and then we drink sangria in the park.” (Song, “Perfect Day,” Transformer, 1972)
- “I don’t like nostalgia unless it’s mine.”
- “I think it’s good to be a little bit insane. It’s how you get things done.”
- “Heroin, be the death of me, heroin, it’s my wife and it’s my life.” (Song, “Heroin,” The Velvet Underground & Nico, 1967)
- “The trouble with everything is that it’s stupid.”
- “Music should come crashing out of your speakers and grab you, and the lyrics should challenge whatever preconceived notions that listener has.”
- “Sweet Jane, you’re waiting for, sweet Jane, oh honey, you’re playing the game.” (Song, “Sweet Jane,” Loaded, 1970)
- “I don’t know what’s good or bad. I’m just doing what I do.”
- “One chord is fine. Two chords is pushing it. Three chords and you’re into jazz.”
Lou Reed’s quotes are a raw, poetic blend of defiance, creativity, and unfiltered truth, inspiring fans to embrace their individuality and live boldly. Which one hits you hardest? 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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