No more perfect days for Lou Reed

Lou Reed, the former frontman of Velvet Underground has died. He was 71 years old.

12:33 28 October 2013

Lou Reed, who was considered as one of the most influential singers and songwriters in rock, has died at the age of 71 due to “liver-related ailment.” Andrew Wylie confirmed that the musician died on Sunday morning at his home in Long Island, New York. He added that Reed had not been well “for a few months.” Reed has previously admitted that he was a hard drinker and drug user for many years. He had transplant this May after suffering liver failure.

Known for tracks that include Walk on the Wild Side and Perfect day, he and his former band, the Velvet Underground, became famous for their fusion of art and music and for collaborating with Andy Warhol.

Reed’s former Velvet Underground bandmaster and other stars paid tribute to him. John Cale wrote to his website: "The world has lost a fine songwriter and poet… I've lost my 'school-yard buddy.'"

Although the Velvet Underground where not commercially successful in 1960’s when their band officially existed, their influence on music in later decades was widely recognised. Their songs were covered by REM, Nirvana, David Bowie, Patti Smith, and many more.