About the song
Lou Reed’s “Walk on the Wild Side” is more than just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone, a snapshot of a bygone era, and a testament to the enduring power of music. Released in 1972 as part of his acclaimed album “Transformer,” this track quickly became a radio hit and a defining anthem for a generation.
The song’s allure lies in its unflinching exploration of themes that were considered taboo at the time. Reed paints a vivid picture of New York City’s underground scene, introducing us to a cast of characters who defied societal norms. From transgender women like Holly Woodlawn and Candy Darling to drug addicts and male prostitutes, Reed offers a glimpse into the lives of individuals often marginalized and misunderstood.
What makes “Walk on the Wild Side” so compelling is its ability to transcend its specific subject matter. The song’s infectious melody and Reed’s distinctive vocals create a timeless piece of music that has resonated with audiences for decades. The lyrics, while candid and explicit, are also imbued with a sense of empathy and compassion. Reed doesn’t judge his characters; instead, he offers a sympathetic portrayal of their struggles and triumphs.
Beyond its musical and lyrical merits, “Walk on the Wild Side” has also become an iconic representation of New York City itself. The song captures the city’s gritty glamour, its vibrant energy, and its allure as a place where anything is possible. It’s a reminder that even in the most chaotic and unpredictable of times, there’s always room for hope and human connection.
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Lyrics
Holly came from Miami, FLA
Hitch-hiked her way across the USA
Plucked her eyebrows along the way
Shaved her legs and then he was a she
They said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
Alright
Candy came from out on the Island
In the back room she was everybody’s darling
But she never once lost her head
Even when she was giving head
She said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, Candy
Take a walk on the wild side”
And the colored girls go
“Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo”
Little Joe never once gave it away
Everybody had to pay and pay
A hustle here and a hustle there
New York City’s the place
Where you said, “Hey, Joe
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, baby
Take a walk on the wild side”
Sugar Plum Fairy came down and hit the streets
Looking for soul food and for a place to eat
Went to the Apollo
You should’ve seen them go, go, go
They said, “Hey, sugar
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
Alright
Huh
Jackie, she is just speeding away
She thought she was James Dean for a day
But then you know that she had to crash
Valium would have helped that bash
She said, “Hey, Jackie
Take a walk on the wild side”
I said, “Hey, babe
Take a walk on the wild side”
And the colored girls go
“Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo
Doo, do-doo, do-doo, do-do-doo”