It’s been two weeks since the tragic passing of Lou Reed, and I’ve had some time to think about it all. I’ll be the first to admit that I am not a die-hard Lou Reed fan the way I am for some other musical artists. However, I knew from the young age of fourteen that Lou was cool.
Lou did not give a damn. I liked that. I wanted to not give a damn either, to be constantly shrouded in black leather, snarling and sarcastic. He was cool. He was the template for cool. And I took note of this. So you could say Lou had an impact on my teenage brain that way. But he also had a lasting impact on me through the musicians that I love.
Without Lou there would be no Black Flag, no Pixies, no Nirvana, no R.E.M., no Red Hot Chili Peppers, no David Bowie, no Patti Smith as we know and love them. Would they even exist at all?
Lou inspired generations of musicians and music lovers. With Lou, even if you didn’t listen to him, you still experienced him through a type of osmosis, because your musical heroes probably listened to him. His music was music for weirdos, for anyone who was different, which is what true rock and roll should be. He inspired those weirdos to leave the safety of their bedrooms or basements, and unleash their talents on the world.
So thank you to a pioneer, a rebel, and a true rock and roll icon. Thank you for providing the world with music, inspiration, and integrity. Thanks Lou.
1942-2013
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