About the song
In the early 1970s, a time when societal norms were rigid and often unforgiving, a song emerged that dared to challenge conventional boundaries. **Lou Reed’s** “**Walk on the Wild Side**” became more than just a catchy tune; it was a cultural touchstone, a defiant anthem that celebrated individuality and acceptance.
Released in 1972 as part of his acclaimed album “Transformer,” “Walk on the Wild Side” was a departure from Reed’s previous work with the Velvet Underground. Produced by the legendary **David Bowie** and **Mick Ronson**, the song showcased Reed’s songwriting prowess and Bowie’s innovative production style.
The song’s lyrics painted a vivid portrait of New York City’s underground scene, introducing listeners to a cast of characters who defied societal expectations. **Holly Woodlawn**, **Candy Darling**, **Joe Dallesandro**, **Jackie Curtis**, and **Joe Campbell**, all regulars at **Andy Warhol’s** iconic **Factory**, were immortalized in the song’s verses.
At a time when topics such as **transgender** identity, **drugs**, and **male prostitution** were considered taboo, “Walk on the Wild Side” fearlessly explored these themes. The song’s unflinching honesty and empathy resonated with listeners, offering a glimpse into a world often hidden from view.
The song’s infectious melody and Reed’s distinctive vocals made it an instant hit, capturing the imagination of a generation. Its popularity extended far beyond the counterculture movement, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
In the decades since its release, “Walk on the Wild Side” has continued to inspire and resonate with audiences. Its message of acceptance and celebration of diversity remains as relevant today as it was in the 1970s. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to its power to challenge societal norms and create a more inclusive world.
Video
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”