Lou Reed '64

Lou Reed was an influential American musician, singer, and songwriter, best known as the frontman of the Velvet Underground and for his groundbreaking solo work, including the seminal album Transformer, featuring Walk on the Wild Side. A pioneer of rock, punk, and experimental music, Reed’s candid lyrics and innovative sound have left a lasting mark on generations of artists.

Over five decades, Reed pushed musical boundaries, blending storytelling, social commentary, and avant-garde experimentation in ways that continue to inspire musicians and fans alike.

A graduate of Syracuse University, he began exploring music and gained early broadcasting experience at WAER, helping to shape his distinctive artistic voice before launching his professional music career.