Will Hermes: Lou Reed's Royal Biographer
So, Will Hermes has done it. He’s penned a tome about Lou Reed titled, Lou Reed: The King of New York. Now, I know what you’re thinking, “Another Lou Reed book? Really?” Trust me, this one’s different. It’s like if Lou Reed and Truman Capote had a love child and that child decided to write a tell-all biography.
The Velvet Underground and Beyond
Hermes doesn’t just skim the surface of Reed’s life. He dives deep into the grimy, glamorous world of New York’s underground scene. From the early days with The Velvet Underground, where they were allegedly paid in blowjobs and beer, to Reed’s solo career as the self-proclaimed “King of New York,” Hermes paints a vivid picture of a complex, contradictory, and undeniably influential figure.
The Man Behind the Myth
One of the things that sets this book apart is its unflinching honesty. Hermes doesn’t shy away from Reed’s flaws, his drug addictions, or his often abrasive personality. But he also doesn’t demonize him. Instead, he presents a nuanced portrait of a man struggling to reconcile his artistic vision with the demands of fame.
A Love Letter to New York
As the title suggests, Lou Reed: The King of New York is as much a love letter to the city as it is to the musician. Hermes captures the gritty, electric energy of 70s New York, a time when the city was both a hellhole and a playground for artists and misfits.
Is It Worth Your Time?
If you’re a fan of Lou Reed, music biographies, or simply a lover of good storytelling, then yes, this book is absolutely worth your time. It’s a wild ride through the life of a rock and roll icon, told with wit, intelligence, and a deep appreciation for its subject.
How To…
- How to understand Lou Reed better? Read Lou Reed: The King of New York by Will Hermes.
- How to appreciate the New York underground scene? Immerse yourself in the world of The Velvet Underground.
- How to write a compelling biography? Study the techniques used in Lou Reed: The King of New York.
- How to overcome challenges in life? Learn from Lou Reed’s resilience and determination.
- How to enjoy a good book? Pick up Lou Reed: The King of New York and get lost in the story.