Lou Reed

In the midst of his evolving career, Lou Reed was riding a wave of creative rebirth during the mid-1980s. Just before the live performance at Farm Aid on September 22, 1985, Reed had released 'New Sensations' earlier that same year, an album that marked a significant shift towards a more commercial sound. This live performance of 'A Walk On The Wild Side,' one of his signature tracks from the Velvet Underground era, demonstrated his ability to transcend decades, connecting past and present. It's interesting to note that despite his legendary status, Reed often battled with mainstream acceptance. Farm Aid was a deeply meaningful event, focusing on supporting struggling farmers, which seems intrinsic to Reed's own advocacy for individuality and social justice. This performance, showcasing his lyrical genius and stage presence, highlighted his unique position as a rock icon.

Watch on YouTube