Lou Reed died, aged 71.

The legendary singer, a founding member of The Velvet Underground, was one of the most influential rock musicians of the past 50 years.

Lou Reed at the premiere of 'W.E', January 2012
© PA Images / Charles Sykes / AP
Lou Reed at the premiere of 'W.E'


His cause of death has yet to be officially confirmed, but he underwent a liver transplant in May, reports Rolling Stone.

Reed was perhaps best known as guitarist, singer and main songwriter of The Velvet Underground in the 1960s and for his solo career from 1972 onwards.

While not commercially successful at the time, The Velvet Underground went on to become one of the most highly regarded bands of the era.

His solo hits include the classics 'Walk on the Wide Side', 'Perfect Day' and 'Satellite of Love'.

Reed released 20 solo studio albums from 1972 to 2007, including 1972's Transformer and Metal Machine Music in 1975.

Lou Reed and Laurie Anderson photographed in October 2011
© Rex Features / Billy Farrell Agency
Lou Reed with Laurie Anderson


His last full album was the 2011 collaboration with Metallica, titled Lulu.

The musician collaborated with a wide variety of artists throughout his career, including Metric, Antony and the Johnsons, Gorillaz, Simple Minds, John Cale, Vince Gill and David A Stewart.

In April, Reed underwent a liver transplant, after which he described himself as "bigger and stronger" than ever.

He is survived by his wife Laurie Anderson, whom he married in 2008.


RIP Lou x