Hey Babe, Take a Walk on the Wild Side

  They are probably the most influential punk band and totally went against what the 60s' were supposed to be about with dark, hopeless, sensual lyrics and drug fueled songs The Velvet underground were without a doubt one of the most interesting bands of their time.  They were an experimental rock n' roll/punk/alternative band even though punk and alternative weren't even invented at the time.  The band had an unusual line up of Lou Reed(the most successful and well known member of the band), John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Maureen Tucker(the first girl drummer).  When Andy Warhol discovered them he decided to produce an album with them and his "superstar" at the time Nico The band came out with their first album "The Velvet Underground and Nico.  Although the album was not a commercial success it is highly acclaimed by critics and people who are into the band.  Nico only sang three songs off the album and never did work with the Velvets again but her haunting deep voice is often associated with them.  After an 11 year career together and 10 albums the Velvet Underground broke up.  Although they may not be as well known as The Beatles or The Rolling Stones they are truly something equally extraordinary.      

                    from left: Nico, Maureen Tucker, John Cale, Sterling Morrison, and Lou Reed

                                                     The Velvets with Andy Warhol

The Velvet Underground and Nico album cover design by Andy Warhol

The velvets after Nico