The Velvet Underground

On November 4, 1966, The Velvet Underground performed live at the Valley Dale Ballroom in Columbus, Ohio, showcasing their avant-garde sound and electric stage presence as part of Andy Warhol's Exploding Plastic Inevitable event. This recording comes shortly after the release of their groundbreaking debut album, "The Velvet Underground & Nico," which had hit the shelves earlier that year. That album, featuring tracks like "Heroin" and "Venus in Furs," introduced the world to their unique blend of music and art, making a lasting impact on the landscape of rock. At this point in their career, the band was still on the uptick, wrestling against commercial expectations but gaining a cult following. Their live performances were known for their immersive, often experimental nature, resonating deeply with audiences and pushing the boundaries of what music could convey. The inclusion of Nico's haunting vocals further defined their sound, setting the stage for their future influence.

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