About the song
“Walk on the Wild Side” by Lou Reed is a quintessential piece of rock history that resonates with both the counterculture of its time and contemporary audiences. Released in 1972 as part of Reed’s second solo album, “Transformer,” this track stands out as a groundbreaking exploration of taboo subjects and societal norms.
Written and performed by Lou Reed himself, “Walk on the Wild Side” delves into the gritty underbelly of New York City, painting vivid portraits of various characters who inhabit its streets. From Holly Woodlawn to Candy Darling, the song immortalizes the denizens of Andy Warhol’s Factory scene, capturing their struggles, dreams, and triumphs with a mix of wit and empathy.
“Transformer,” produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, served as a pivotal moment in Reed’s career, propelling him to newfound fame and critical acclaim. The album, which also features hits like “Perfect Day” and “Satellite of Love,” reached No. 29 on the Billboard 200 chart and has since been hailed as one of the greatest albums of all time.
“Walk on the Wild Side” itself reached No. 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Reed’s first and only top 40 hit as a solo artist. Its provocative lyrics and catchy melody made it an instant classic, earning it a permanent place in the annals of rock music history.
Decades after its release, “Walk on the Wild Side” remains a cultural touchstone, celebrated for its fearless exploration of gender identity, sexuality, and societal norms. Its influence can be felt across generations of musicians and artists who continue to be inspired by Reed’s boundary-pushing vision.
Video
Lyrics
Holly came from Miami, FLA
Hitch-hiked her way across the USA
Plucked her eyebrows on the way
Shaved her legs and then he was a she
She says, “Hey babe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
She said, “Hey honey,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
Candy came from out on the Island
In the backroom she was everybody’s darlin’
But she never lost her head
Even when she was giving head
She says, “Hey babe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
Said, “Hey babe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
And the colored girls go:
“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 they said, “Hey babe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
I said, “Hey Joe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
Sugar Plum Fairy came and hit the streets
Lookin’ for soul food and a place to eat
Went to the Apollo
You should’ve seen ’em 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.”
All right, huh
Jackie is just speeding away
Thought she was James Dean for a day
Then I guess she had to crash
Valium would have helped that bash
She said, “Hey babe,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
I said, “Hey honey,
Take a walk on the wild side.”
And the colored girls say:
“Doo do doo do doo do do doo…”