Since news of Lou Reed’s passing hit early this morning, tributes have flooded in from all corners of the music world. Both peers of the musician and those inspired to carry his torch have taken to social media to share their experiences and memories of the Velvet Underground legend.
From fellow generation-defining artists such as Iggy Pop and Nikki Sixx to more contemporary flavour such as Mike Ness of Social Distortion and Tom Morello, to those in a different industry all together such as Ricky Gervais and Anthony Bourdain, it’s obvious that the message, ethos and personality of Lou Reed knew no boundaries.
Below, we’ve gathered some of the more meaningful tributes to the departed, highlighting just how far his reach really stretched. Many of your favourite musicians found their path after being introduced to the offerings of Reed, be they as frontman for The Velvet Underground or as a lone wolf.
Reed passed away earlier today aged 71, after what is reported to be complications stemming from a liver transplant he received earlier this year.
"I grew up with Lou Reed's music. I had his records when kids my age were still listening to Elton John. I'm sorry to see him go." -Ness
— Social Distortion (@SocialD1) October 28, 2013
RIP Lou Reed. One of the greatest artists of our time.
— Ricky Gervais (@rickygervais) October 27, 2013
RIP Lou Reed.Thank you for your beautiful/dark lyrics/music and stance on life.You inspired me from my teenage years right up till today.
— Nikki Sixx (@NikkiSixx) October 27, 2013
“heavenly wine and roses…seem to whisper to me….when you smile ..” RIP Lou Reed
— Anthony Bourdain (@Bourdain) October 27, 2013
Deepest Gratitude Lou Reed. Peace. http://t.co/PRmDlX2hOK
— mia farrow (@MiaFarrow) October 27, 2013
RIP TO A GREAT FRIEND A FELLOW MUSICIAN. FROM MAXES TO THE MASSES YOU MADE THE WORLD SING. I LOVE YOU LOU! #LouReed
— Steven Tyler (@IamStevenT) October 27, 2013
Devastating news:… http://t.co/LukCOL1T4r
— Iggy Pop (@IggyPop) October 27, 2013
RIP Lou Reed … putting on Transformer right now.
— neil mullane finn (@neilmullanefinn) October 27, 2013
My intro to Lou Reed/Velvet Underground was Janes Addiction cover of 'Rock n Roll'. He was a singular, unique talent. RIP Lou and thanks
— Tom Morello (@tmorello) October 27, 2013