Walk on the Wild SideLou Reed1rank/position

Lou Reed – Walk on the Wild Side (Official Audio)

If there’s one song that epitomizes the counterculture of the 1970s, it’s this one.

It appears on Lou Reed’s Transformer, released in December 1972.

Its lyrics, depicting people living in New York’s underworld, were bold for the time.

Produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, the track is notable for its striking twin bass lines.

The song became a global hit, reaching No.

16 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The lyrics, modeled on real figures who gathered at artist Andy Warhol’s The Factory, portray the lives of those on society’s margins.

It’s a track that conveys a strong respect for diversity.

Perfect DayLou Reed2rank/position

Lou Reed – Perfect Day (Official Audio)

A song produced in 1972 by David Bowie and Mick Ronson.

It features dark, slow vocals and a sweet, nostalgic piano-based sound.

The track was used in the film Trainspotting and in an AT&T commercial.

Halloween ParadeLou Reed3rank/position

Halloween Parade

Lou Reed, also known as the vocalist of The Velvet Underground who influenced many rock musicians.

He had periods of mainstream success as well as times when his uniquely experimental style was not widely appreciated, but his 1989 album “New York” is a masterpiece that represents the culmination of his work in the ’80s.

Among its tracks, “Halloween Parade” can be called a classic where you can enjoy his signature vocal style.

N.Y. StarsLou Reed4rank/position

Lou Reed – N.Y. Stars

A heavyweight of the American rock scene, Lou Reed released an album in 1974 titled “Sally Can’t Dance,” which includes a track distinguished by a powerful guitar sound that seems to capture the clamor of New York.

Overflowing with Reed’s signature groove, the song delivers a scathing critique of New York’s nightlife culture and consumerism.

The lyrics, laced with irony toward imitators and satire aimed at those dazzled by superficial charm, are quintessential Reed.

This is a recommended track for anyone who wants to stay true to themselves without being deceived by the frills of city life.

Xmas in FebruaryLou Reed5rank/position

Lou Reed – Xmas in February – New York Album

This song is known as a masterpiece of narrative songwriting from the 1980s.

Its lyrics portray the anguish of a Vietnam War veteran, contrasting the joy of Christmas with personal torment to vividly depict the long-term effects of war.

Showcasing Lou Reed’s delicate storytelling and keen eye for detail, it was included on the album New York, released in January 1989.

The album’s critical acclaim is evident from Rolling Stone ranking it 19th among the best albums of the 1980s.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to reflect on the lives of those who carry the scars of war.

ViciousLou Reed6rank/position

Lou Reed – Vicious (Official Audio)

Lou Reed, who emerged from New York’s underground scene.

Opening his 1972 album Transformer, this track has long been celebrated as a seductive, glamorous piece that resonated with the UK’s glam rock boom.

The famous anecdote traces back to Andy Warhol’s idea of “malice that hits like a bouquet of flowers.” When the aggressive guitar riff intertwines with Reed’s sardonic vocals, a decadent, dangerous world unfolds—like donning leather and eyeshadow.

Its use in the TV drama Billions is still fresh in memory.

When you crave a jolt to the everyday, why not surrender to the track’s dazzling, provocative sound?