A rebel poet just as much as he was a musician, singer-songwriter Lou Reed of the Velvet Underground created a distinct and inventive marriage of sound and lyrics, which shaped and influenced rock music for the better part of a half-century. The diabolical mastermind behind albums like The Velvet Underground & Nico (the cover art famously done by VU and Reed confidant, Andy Warhol), White Light/White Heat, Velvet Underground, and Loaded, as well as hit singles, “Walk on the Wild Side,” “Satellite of Love”, and “Perfect Day,” Reed was a god among men in the same vein as a David Bowie, Bob Dylan or Johnny Cash. His work transcended music and infiltrated the larger realms of pop culture, forever cementing his legacy as one of the all-time greats.

In celebration of Lou Reed’s birthday today, take a listen to both the Velvet Underground’s 1970 studio record, Loaded, as well as Phish’s cover of the album as their “musical costume” during their 1998 Halloween run in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the Thomas & Mack Center.

The Velvet Underground – Loaded

Phish – 10/31/1998

[Video: thegreatboognish]

Setlist: Phish | Thomas & Mack Center | Las Vegas, NV | 10/31/98

Set One: Axilla > Punch You In the Eye > Roggae, Birds of a Feather, Sneakin’ Sally Through the Alley [1] -> Chalk Dust Torture [2] > Lawn Boy, Mike’s Song -> Frankie Says > Weekapaug Groove

Set Two: Who Loves the Sun? [3], Sweet Jane, Rock and Roll [3], Cool It Down [3], New Age [3], Head Held High [3], Lonesome Cowboy Bill > I Found a Reason [3], Train Round the Bend [3], Oh! Sweet Nuthin’ [3]

Set Three: Wolfman’s Brother [4] -> Piper > Ghost

Encore: Sleeping Monkey > Tweezer Reprise

[1] No vocal jam. | [2] Unfinished. | [3] Phish debut. | [4] Fish on vacuum.

[Originally published 3/2/19]