Who Is Lou Reed? Age, Biography and Wiki
Lou Reed, an influential American rock musician, was born on March 2, 1942. Known for his unique sound and poetic lyricism, Reed rose to fame as the frontman of the groundbreaking rock band The Velvet Underground. His music, characterized by its honest storytelling and avant-garde style, has left an indelible mark on the music industry. As of 2025, Reed's legacy continues to inspire new generations of artists.
| Occupation | Photographers |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | March 2, 1942 |
| Age | 83 Years |
| Birth Place | New York City, U.S. |
| Horoscope | Pisces |
| Country | U.S |
Popularity
Lou Reed's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
Although Lou Reed's precise height and weight details have varied over his lifetime, he was often described as having a slender build. Rough reports suggest that he stood around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and maintained a weight of approximately 150 pounds (68 kg). His defining feature was his iconic look, which often included dark clothing and sunglasses, adding to his enigmatic persona.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Throughout his life, Lou Reed's relationships were pivotal in shaping his music. He was married three times, with his most notable relationship being with performance artist Laurie Anderson, whom he married in 2008. Fans are often curious about his romantic history, but Reed valued his privacy and maintained a low profile regarding his personal life. In 2025, while his romantic entanglements are a source of interest, the focus remains on his artistic legacy rather than current relationships.
He contributed music to two theatrical interpretations of 19th-century writers, one of which he developed into an album titled The Raven. He married his third wife Laurie Anderson in 2008, and recorded the collaboration album Lulu with Metallica. He died in 2013 of liver disease.
Reed has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: as a member of the Velvet Underground in 1996 and as a solo act in 2015.
Net Worth and Salary
Lou Reed's net worth was estimated at around $30 million at the time of his passing in 2013. His wealth accumulated from his prolific music career, album sales, and royalties. In 2025, his estate continues to generate income through music royalties, reissues, and merchandise, preserving his legacy and securing his financial status posthumously.
Career, Business and Investments
Lou Reed’s career spanned several decades, during which he released numerous solo albums and collaborated with various artists across genres. The Velvet Underground's influence on rock music is immeasurable, and their debut album, "The Velvet Underground & Nico," is often cited among the greatest albums of all time. Beyond music, Reed explored various artistic endeavors, including writing and photography, showcasing his multifaceted talents. His business ventures included partnerships with notable brands and creative projects that further solidified his status as a cultural icon.
Lewis Allan Reed (March 2, 1942 –October 27, 2013) was an American musician and songwriter. He was the guitarist, singer, and principal songwriter for the rock band the Velvet Underground and had a solo career that spanned five decades.
Although not commercially successful during its existence, the Velvet Underground came to be regarded as one of the most influential bands in the history of underground and alternative rock music. Reed's distinctive deadpan voice, poetic and transgressive lyrics, and experimental guitar playing were trademarks throughout his long career.
Social Network
Lou Reed, while not as active on modern social media platforms, still garners a significant following online. Fans and music enthusiasts continue to share his work through platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Tribute pages and fan accounts keep his memory alive, discussing his music and influence, allowing new audiences to discover his rich discography even into 2025.
By the time the band recorded White Light/White Heat, Nico had quit the band and Warhol had been fired, both against Cale's wishes. Warhol's replacement as manager was Steve Sesnick.
In September 1968, Reed told Morrison and Tucker that he would dissolve the band if they did not let him fire Cale; they agreed, and Reed had Morrison inform Cale of his firing. Morrison and Tucker were discomfited by Reed's tactics but remained in the band.
Cale's replacement was Boston-based musician Doug Yule, who played bass guitar and keyboards and would soon share lead vocal duties with Reed. The band now took on a more pop-oriented sound and acted more as a vehicle for Reed to develop his songwriting craft.
They released two studio albums with this lineup: 1969's The Velvet Underground and 1970's Loaded. Reed left the Velvet Underground in August 1970. The band disintegrated after Morrison and Tucker departed in 1971, and their final album Squeeze was almost entirely Yule's work.
Education
Lou Reed attended Syracuse University, where he studied creative writing, film, and music. His academic background provided a solid foundation for his expressive songwriting and innovative musical approaches. Reed's education went beyond formal schooling, as he was deeply influenced by the vibrant cultural scene of New York City during the 1960s, which played a crucial role in shaping his artistic vision.
Reed attended Atkinson Elementary School in Freeport and went on to Freeport Junior High School. His sister Merrill, born Margaret Reed, said that as an adolescent, he suffered panic attacks, became socially awkward and "possessed a fragile temperament" but was highly focused on things that he liked, mainly music.
Having learned to play the guitar from the radio, he developed an early interest in rock and roll and rhythm and blues, and during high school played in several bands.
