Lewis Allan Reed was an American musician and songwriter. He was the guitarist, singer, and principal songwriter for the rock band The Velvet Underground and had a solo career that spanned five decades. Although not commercially successful during its existence, the Velvet Underground came to be regarded as one of the most influential bands in the history of underground and alternative rock music. Reed's distinctive deadpan voice, poetic and transgressive lyrics, and experimental guitar playing were trademarks throughout his long career.
Reed performing live at Arlene Schnitzer Concert Hall in Portland, Oregon in 2004
Reed as a high school senior, 1959
Reed in 1977
Reed performing onstage with guitarist Chuck Hammer, June 1979, The Bottom Line, New York City
The Velvet Underground was an American rock band formed in New York City in 1964. It originally comprised singer and guitarist Lou Reed, Welsh multi-instrumentalist John Cale, guitarist Sterling Morrison, and drummer Angus MacLise. In 1965, MacLise was replaced by Moe Tucker, who played on most of the band's recordings. Though their integration of rock and the avant-garde resulted in little commercial success, they became one of the most influential bands in rock, underground, experimental, and alternative music. Their provocative subject matter, musical experiments, and nihilistic attitude was also instrumental in the development of punk rock, new wave and several other genres.
The Velvet Underground and Nico in 1966 Clockwise from top left: Lou Reed, Sterling Morrison, John Cale, Moe Tucker and Nico
The Velvet Underground reformed in 1993. From left to right: Morrison (at back), Tucker, Cale and Reed.