“Walk on the Wild Side” by Lou Reed remains one of the most iconic songs of the 1970s, known for its candid portrayal of New York City’s underground culture. Released in 1972 on Reed’s second solo album, “Transformer,” the song became his most successful single. This article explores the origins of “Walk on the Wild Side,” its lyrical themes, musical composition, and its lasting impact on music and culture.
Origins and Context:
“Walk on the Wild Side” emerged from Lou Reed’s experiences with the avant-garde art scene in New York City during the late 1960s and early 1970s. Reed, who had previously been a member of the influential band The Velvet Underground, was deeply embedded in the city’s countercultural movement. His connection with Andy Warhol’s Factory—a hub for artists, musicians, and other creative misfits—greatly influenced his work.
The song was produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, who played significant roles in shaping its sound. Bowie’s admiration for Reed and his desire to help him gain wider recognition led to their collaboration on “Transformer.” The production of “Walk on the Wild Side” was a deliberate effort to blend Reed’s gritty lyrical style with a more accessible sound, creating a unique and compelling track.
Lyrical Themes and Narrative:
“Walk on the Wild Side” is notable for its candid and compassionate portrayal of the lives of several individuals who were part of Warhol’s Factory scene. The song’s verses each focus on a different character, offering a glimpse into their unconventional and often challenging lives.
The first verse introduces Holly Woodlawn, a transgender actress and Warhol superstar, with the line, “Holly came from Miami, FLA / Hitchhiked her way across the USA / Plucked her eyebrows on the way / Shaved her legs and then he was a she.” This depiction of Holly’s gender transition was groundbreaking for its time, bringing attention to transgender issues in a way that was both respectful and matter-of-fact.
Candy Darling, another Warhol superstar, is the subject of the second verse. Reed sings, “Candy came from out on the Island / In the backroom, she was everybody’s darling,” highlighting her journey from Long Island to becoming a fixture of New York’s nightlife. The lyrics capture Candy’s allure and the challenges she faced as a transgender woman in a prejudiced society.
The third verse introduces “Little Joe,” a reference to Joe Dallesandro, an actor and Warhol muse known for his roles in Warhol’s films. The verse describes Joe’s hustling lifestyle with lines like, “Little Joe never once gave it away / Everybody had to pay and pay.” This portrayal of a male hustler adds another layer to the song’s exploration of marginalized lives.
“Jackie,” the subject of the fourth verse, is often thought to be Jackie Curtis, a pioneering transgender actress and playwright. Reed sings about Jackie losing her “head,” a possible reference to the struggles with addiction and mental health issues that many in Warhol’s circle faced. The verse paints a vivid picture of the highs and lows of life on the fringes of society.
The final verse brings it all together with a reference to “Sugar Plum Fairy,” a nickname for actor Joe Campbell. The verse captures the sense of community and resilience among these individuals, despite the hardships they encountered.
Musical Composition and Innovation:
Musically, “Walk on the Wild Side” stands out for its blend of rock, jazz, and pop elements. The song’s laid-back groove is anchored by Herbie Flowers’ distinctive bassline, which was achieved by layering double bass and electric bass parts. This inventive approach creates a rich and textured sound that drives the song forward.
Ronson’s production adds to the song’s unique character, with tasteful use of saxophone and backing vocals. The doo-wop-style “doo doo doo” chorus, sung by Thunderthighs, provides a contrast to the gritty subject matter, creating a juxtaposition that is both jarring and compelling.
Reed’s vocal delivery is another key element of the song’s success. His detached, almost conversational style of singing enhances the storytelling aspect of the lyrics, allowing the listener to focus on the vivid character portraits he paints.
Cultural Impact and Legacy:
“Walk on the Wild Side” quickly became one of Lou Reed’s most successful and influential songs. It reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, bringing Reed mainstream recognition while maintaining his artistic integrity. The song’s success helped solidify his reputation as a pioneering and uncompromising artist.
The song’s impact extends beyond its commercial success. Its candid portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters and themes was groundbreaking for its time, challenging societal norms and bringing visibility to marginalized communities. “Walk on the Wild Side” has been praised for its empathetic and non-judgmental approach to these characters, offering a humanizing glimpse into their lives.
The song’s influence can be seen in the countless artists it has inspired across various genres. Its innovative production techniques and bold lyrical content have left a lasting mark on rock music and beyond. Artists ranging from David Bowie to Patti Smith have cited Lou Reed and “Walk on the Wild Side” as major influences on their work.
Moreover, the song’s legacy is reflected in its continued presence in popular culture. It has been covered, sampled, and referenced in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. Its themes of individuality, resilience, and the search for acceptance remain relevant, resonating with new generations of listeners.
Controversies and Misunderstandings:
Despite its success, “Walk on the Wild Side” has not been without controversy. Some listeners initially misunderstood the song’s intentions, interpreting its candid portrayal of marginalized lives as exploitative. However, Reed’s empathetic and respectful approach to his subjects makes it clear that his intent was to shed light on their experiences rather than sensationalize them.
In more recent years, the song has faced criticism from some quarters for its use of outdated and potentially offensive language when discussing transgender individuals. While the song was groundbreaking for its time, these criticisms highlight the evolving nature of societal attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues and the importance of continuing to promote respectful and inclusive language.
Conclusion:
“Walk on the Wild Side” by Lou Reed is a landmark song that captures the essence of New York City’s underground culture and the lives of its most colorful inhabitants. Through its vivid character portraits, innovative musical composition, and empathetic storytelling, the song offers a unique and compelling glimpse into a world often hidden from the mainstream.
As we reflect on the enduring legacy of “Walk on the Wild Side,” we are reminded of the power of music to challenge societal norms, bring visibility to marginalized communities, and connect us through shared human experiences. Lou Reed’s masterpiece continues to resonate with listeners, inspiring new generations to explore the complexities of identity, resilience, and the search for acceptance in a constantly changing world.
