Lou Reed was an influential American musician, songwriter, and guitarist best known as the frontman and principal songwriter of The Velvet Underground. Although the band found little commercial success during its brief initial run in the 1960s, it became one of the most pivotal acts in underground and alternative rock, recognized for experimental sounds and poetic, often provocative lyrics. Reed’s distinctively dry vocal style and innovative guitar work defined his music throughout his career. After early experiences singing in doo-wop groups and studying poetry at Syracuse University, Reed formed The Velvet Underground in New York alongside John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Angus MacLise, later joined by Moe Tucker and Nico. Their collaborations with Andy Warhol and connection to the 1960s art scene shaped their groundbreaking debut and left a lasting influence on future musicians. Reed left the band in 1970. Launching a prolific solo career, Reed released twenty studio albums over five decades. His 1972 album Transformer, produced by David Bowie, included the classic hit Walk on the Wild Side and established his mainstream profile. Though he faced personal and professional setbacks, including struggles with addiction, Reed returned with acclaimed records like The Blue Mask and his late-eighties standout, New York. Reed reunited with The Velvet Underground in the 1990s and continued to create music, including collaborations such as Songs for Drella with John Cale and Lulu with Metallica. He was also known for his experimental projects and partnerships, including work inspired by literature and theater. Reed married artist Laurie Anderson in 2008 and passed away in 2013. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Velvet Underground and again as a solo artist, underscoring his legacy as a pioneering force in modern rock music.