About the song
Let’s delve into “Heroin” by the groundbreaking band The Velvet Underground. This track, nestled within their debut album “The Velvet Underground & Nico” released in 1967, is a visceral and thought-provoking exploration of addiction and the human condition. Penned by the enigmatic Lou Reed, the song showcases his ability to craft raw, evocative lyrics that delve deep into the complexities of life.
“Heroin” is a sonic journey that mirrors the highs and lows of its subject matter. From its hauntingly sparse opening chords to its cacophonous crescendos, the song’s musical arrangement perfectly complements Reed’s poignant lyrics. Through vivid imagery and stark honesty, Reed paints a vivid portrait of the allure and devastation of heroin addiction, challenging listeners to confront uncomfortable truths about the human experience.
Upon its release, “Heroin” faced considerable controversy due to its explicit subject matter and unflinching portrayal of drug use. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, the song has since been heralded as one of The Velvet Underground’s most influential works, cementing their legacy as pioneers of alternative rock.
While “Heroin” may not have enjoyed mainstream chart success, its impact on music and culture cannot be overstated. Its bold exploration of taboo topics and innovative musical approach have inspired generations of artists across genres. From punk to post-punk, shoegaze to grunge, the echoes of “Heroin” can be heard in the work of countless musicians who continue to push boundaries and challenge conventions.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a sonic journey that is equal parts haunting and transcendent, look no further than “Heroin” by The Velvet Underground.
Video
Lyrics
I don’t know just where I’m going,
But I’m gonna try for the kingdom if I can,
‘Cause it makes me feel like I’m a man
When I put a spike into my vein,
And I’ll tell ‘ya, things aren’t quite the same,
When I’m rushin’ on my run,
And I feel just like Jesus’ son,
And I guess that I just don’t know,
And I guess that I just don’t know.
I have made the big decision:
I’m gonna try to nullify my life.
‘Cause when the blood begins to flow,
When it shoots up the dropper’s neck,
When I’m closing in on death,
And you can’t help me now, you guys,
And all you sweet girls with all your sweet talk,
You can all go take a walk.
And I guess that I just don’t know,
And I guess that I just don’t know.
I wish that I was born a thousand years ago
I wish that I’d sail the darkened seas,
On a great big clipper ship,
Going from this land here to that,
In a sailor’s suit and cap,
Away from the big city
Where a man can not be free
Of all of the evils of this town,
And of himself, and those around.
Oh, and I guess that I just don’t know.
Oh, and I guess that I just don’t know.
Heroin, be the death of me.
Heroin, it’s my wife and it’s my life,
Because a mainer to my vein
Leads to a center in my head,
And then I’m better off than dead
Because when the smack begins to flow,
I really don’t care anymore
About all the Jim-Jim’s in this town,
And all the politicians makin’ busy sounds,
And everybody puttin’ everybody else down,
And all the dead bodies piled up in mounds,
‘Cause when the smack begins to flow,
Then I really don’t care anymore.
Ah, when the heroin is in my blood,
And that blood is in my head,
Then thank God that I’m as good as dead,
Then thank your God that I’m not aware,
And thank God that I just don’t care,
And I guess I just don’t know,
And I guess I just don’t know.