About the song
Lou Reed’s live 1973 performance of “Sweet Jane” stands as a vivid snapshot of his artistry and the transformative period of his career. Reed, known for his profound impact on rock music through both his solo work and his time with the Velvet Underground, delivers an unforgettable rendition of one of his most celebrated songs in this live recording.
“Sweet Jane” originally appeared on Reed’s 1970 album “Loaded,” which marked a significant turning point in his career. The song, with its iconic guitar riff and evocative lyrics, quickly became a classic, epitomizing Reed’s ability to blend raw storytelling with compelling melodies. On the Billboard charts, “Sweet Jane” did not chart as a single, but its influence and popularity among fans have solidified its status as one of Reed’s quintessential tracks.
The 1973 live performance of “Sweet Jane” captures Reed at a pivotal moment, after his departure from the Velvet Underground and during the early stages of his solo career. This era was marked by Reed’s exploration of new musical landscapes and a deeper focus on his unique lyrical voice. The live recording is renowned for its energy and Reed’s charismatic delivery, offering fans a raw and authentic experience that studio versions often lack.
In this performance, Reed is accompanied by a backing band that complements his distinctive sound, adding depth to the song’s already rich texture. The live 1973 version of “Sweet Jane” showcases Reed’s ability to reinterpret and invigorate his music in a live setting, bringing new dimensions to the song while staying true to its original spirit.
For an audience appreciative of rock’s rich history and Reed’s influential role in shaping it, this live rendition of “Sweet Jane” is a testament to his enduring legacy. It captures the essence of an era and offers a glimpse into the dynamic performance style that made Lou Reed a legend in the world of rock music. Whether revisiting a classic or discovering it anew, this performance remains a powerful and evocative experience.
Video
Lyrics
Anyone who’s ever had a heart
Wouldn’t turn around and break it
And anyone who’s ever played a part
Wouldn’t turn around and hate it
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Oh, sweet, sweet Jane
You’re waiting for Jimmy down in the alley
You were waiting there for him to come back home
You’re waiting down on the corner
And thinking of ways to get back home
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Ah, sweet, sweet Jane
Anyone who’s ever had a dream
Anyone who’s ever played a part
Anyone who’s ever been lonely
And anyone who’s ever split apart
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Oh, sweet, sweet Jane
Heavenly wine and roses
Seem to whisper to me when you smile
Heavenly wine and roses
Seem to whisper to me when you smile
La-la-la-la, la-la-la
La-la-la, la-la-la
Na-na-na-na, na-na-na
Na-na-na, na-na-na
Sweet Jane
Sweet, sweet Jane