Notes from the Velvet Underground: The Life of Lou Reed

"**** COMPELLING" - The Sunday Telegraph

"CONTROVERSIAL ... Sounes' book pushes the standard Reed narrative" - The New York Times

Lou Reed, who passed away in 2013, was most familiar to the general public as the rather grumpy New Yorker clad in black who sang 'Walk on the Wild Side'. However, to his devoted admirers, he was recognised as one of the most innovative and intelligent American songwriters of modern times, a natural outsider who lived a tumultuous and often tormented life.

In this in-depth, meticulously researched, and highly entertaining biography, the respected biographer Howard Sounes examines the life and work of this fascinating individual, from his birth to his death. This includes his pivotal time as the leader of The Velvet Underground – a band widely considered to be one of the most important in the history of rock 'n' roll.

Written with a profound knowledge and understanding of the music, Sounes also casts entirely new light on the artist's creative process, his struggles with mental health, his bisexuality, his three marriages, and his battles with drug and alcohol addiction. Throughout his extensive research, Sounes conducted interviews with over 140 people from every aspect of Lou Reed's life – some of whom have never spoken publicly about him before – including figures from the music industry, band members, fellow celebrities, family members, former wives, and lovers. This book vividly brings Lou Reed and his complex world to life.