Released: 1972
Lou Reed’s ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ is a gritty, unfiltered tour through the underbelly of New York City’s counterculture in the 1970s. The song tells the tales of several characters, each embodying different aspects of the city’s marginalized communities, with a recurring invitation to ‘take a walk on the wild side’.
The first verse introduces Holly, a character who hails from Miami and embarks on a transformative journey across the USA. ‘Plucked her eyebrows along the way, shaved her legs and then he was a she’ – this line subtly hints at Holly’s transition from male to female, a daring topic for a song released in 1972.
Candy, the character in the second verse, represents the grittier side of the city’s nightlife. The line ‘But she never lost her head, even when she was giving head’ is a bold reference to Candy’s involvement in the sex industry, yet it also underscores her resilience and strength.
The ‘colored girls’ chorus adds a rhythmic, catchy element to the song, but it’s more than just a catchy hook. It’s a nod to the vibrant, diverse community that was integral to the city’s counterculture scene.
Little Joe and Sugar Plum Fairy, characters introduced in the following verses, represent different facets of the city’s underground. Little Joe’s ‘hustle’ and Sugar Plum Fairy’s search for ‘soul food and a place to eat’ depict the struggle and resilience of these marginalized figures.
Finally, Jackie’s story of ‘speeding away’ and crashing brings a note of caution to the song. It’s a stark reminder of the dangers that can come with living life on the edge, or as Reed puts it, taking a ‘walk on the wild side’.
Overall, ‘Walk on the Wild Side’ is a powerful exploration of the raw, often overlooked aspects of city life. It’s a testament to Reed’s ability to tell complex, nuanced stories through his music, inviting listeners to step into a world that’s as fascinating as it is challenging.
