Lou Reed made some great and important music that I’m grateful to have in my life. His band The Velvet Underground failed commercially but influenced many important bands. Their music was a unique mixture of feedback drenched energy, and beautiful simplicity. To me it still sounds fresh and was way ahead of the times when it was released in the late 60’s. I’m feeling sentimental, so if you aren’t familiar with the Velvets, I recommend the beautiful “Sweet Jane”, but “I’m Waiting For The Man” has great energy. Lou made some gems as a solo artist too. My favorite solo album is Transformer, which was produced by David Bowie. “Perfect Day” is an absolute masterpiece
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QYEC4TZsy-Y
Also, check out Steve Jones from the Sex Pistols and friends performing a great version of “Perfect Day” recently… http://vimeopro.com/chromehearts/perfectday
-Shepard
http://www.rollingstone.com/music/news/lou-reed-velvet-underground-leader-and-rock-pioneer-dead-at-71-20131027