About the song
“Walk on the Wild Side” isn’t just a song; it’s a cultural touchstone. Released in 1972 by Lou Reed, the song became an anthem for the counterculture movement, breaking boundaries with its frank lyrics that explored themes of sex, drugs, and the lives of marginalized individuals.
Produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, “Walk on the Wild Side” emerged from a unique meeting point. Inspired by Nelson Algren’s novel of the same name, the song evolved to feature characters from Andy Warhol’s “Factory” scene, a hub for New York City’s artistic underground.
Each verse chronicles the journey of a different “superstar” – Holly Woodlawn, a transgender actress; Candy Darling, another transgender performer; Joe Dallesandro, an actor known for his portrayal of a hustler; Jackie Curtis, a drag queen and Warhol collaborator; and Joe Campbell, a drug dealer. Through these snapshots, the song paints a vivid picture of a world unseen by mainstream society.
The song’s musical elements are just as captivating as its lyrics. A simple chord progression forms the foundation, while the iconic twinned basslines, played by Herbie Flowers, add a touch of unconventional brilliance. David Bowie’s acoustic guitar and the soaring baritone saxophone solo further enrich the soundscape.
“Walk on the Wild Side” sparked controversy upon release. The song’s frank portrayal of sexuality and social realities challenged the status quo. However, this boldness also propelled it to success. Despite censored versions offered by record companies, the song resonated with a generation yearning for honesty and social change.
Today, “Walk on the Wild Side” remains a landmark song. It’s included in the Rolling Stone’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time” and inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. Beyond accolades, the song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a bygone era, capturing the raw energy and social turbulence of a vibrant artistic movement.
“Walk on the Wild Side” is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a testament to artistic courage, the power of music to challenge norms, and the enduring allure of the unconventional. It’s a song that continues to resonate, reminding us of the beauty and complexity found in the fringes of society.
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Lyrics
Holly came from Miami, F.L.A.
Hitch-hiked her way across the U.S.A.
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”
Said, “Hey, honey
Take a walk on the wild side”
Candy came from out on the Island
In the back room she was everybody’s darling
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
Looking for soul food and a place to eat
Went to the Apollo
You should’ve seen them 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”, alright
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…”