A Compelling Portrait of Lou Reed in Will Hermes' Latest Biography

In his latest biography, Lou Reed: The King of New York, Will Hermes presents an intricate portrait of the musical legend, Lou Reed. Known for his role as the Velvet Underground's frontman, Reed has been a figure of fascination and controversy throughout his career and beyond.

Shelley Albin's recollection of Reed wreaking havoc upon meeting her parents in 1962 gives us a glimpse into his rebellious nature. This behavior predated his fame, his alignment with Andy Warhol, and the Velvet Underground's cult status.

Echoes of the Shadow and Light

Friends and acquaintances recall Reed as having a dual nature: capable of sweetness but also known for his caustic personality. These complexities extend to his art as well. Reed's second-to-last album, Lulu, was met with harsh criticism for its raw thematic content, contrasting sharply with the serene tones of his Hudson River Wind Meditations.

Rejecting Simplification

Hermes approach to Reed's life story avoids oversimplification, acknowledging his ever-evolving identity and resistance to societal norms. Particularly, Reed's embrace of gender fluidity is highlighted as an example of his forward thinking.

The Controversial Path of a Music Pioneer

Throughout his career, Reed was no stranger to condemnation, with most of his projects initially greeted with disdain. Yet, albums like New York struck a chord with mainstream audiences and later works such as Transformer eventually gained acclaim.

The Many Facets of Lou Reed

While the biography revisits the well-known connections with significant figures such as Warhol, Cale, Nico, and Bowie, it is the inclusion of lesser-known individuals from Reed's life that adds depth to this account.

The book benefits immensely from the Lou Reed archive at the New York Library of Performing Arts, donated by Laurie Anderson, Reed's widow. These resources allowed Hermes to provide a meticulous analysis of Reed's work, ad deals, and the continuous rebranding of his image and artistry.

A Legacy Beyond Conformity

With time, works like Lulu – once scorned – are being reconsidered as possibly Reed's finest. His enduring ability to challenge the status quo in art and society is a testament to his lasting influence. Reed's life, as depicted by Hermes, is a complex tapestry of defiance, creativity, and non-conformity that continues to captivate and provoke.

biography, music, culture