About the song
Let’s take a stroll down memory lane with “Walk on the Wild Side” by the legendary Lou Reed. This iconic track, released in 1972 as part of his solo album “Transformer”, remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
Crafted by the masterful songwriting of Lou Reed himself, “Walk on the Wild Side” is a musical narrative that offers a glimpse into the vibrant and eclectic world of New York City’s underground scene in the 1970s. With its catchy melody, smooth bassline, and Reed’s distinctive spoken-word delivery, the song effortlessly transports listeners to the streets of Manhattan, where they encounter a cast of colorful characters navigating life on society’s fringe.
Upon its release, “Walk on the Wild Side” achieved considerable commercial success, reaching the 16th position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. However, its impact extends far beyond chart rankings, as the song has since become an anthem of counterculture and a symbol of artistic rebellion. Its frank portrayal of taboo subjects such as sexuality, gender identity, and drug use challenged societal norms and paved the way for greater artistic freedom in popular music.
Despite facing some controversy upon its release due to its explicit lyrics, “Walk on the Wild Side” has endured as one of Lou Reed’s most beloved and influential compositions. Its infectious groove and thought-provoking lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages, cementing its status as a true classic in the annals of rock music.
So, if you’re ready to embark on a musical journey through the streets of 1970s New York City, join Lou Reed and “Walk on the Wild Side”.
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…”