Lou Reed was one of music's most influential icons. His music defied all definitions of genre, but was influenced by punk rock, yet attracted millions of fans and left a lasting legacy that has inspired generations of musicians.
Born Lewis Allen Reed, Lou Reed grew up in New York. He became lead guitarist and vocalist for The Velvet Underground and after leaving the band in 1970 went on to be a solo artist in a career that lasted five decades. His second solo album, Transformer released in 1972 was produced by David Bowie, arranged by Mick Ronson and continues to be regarded as one of the most iconic albums of all time. Transformer brought Lou Reed mainstream recognition anchored by his most successful single 'A Walk on the Wild Side'. He went one to release a further eighteen solo albums and sadly died in October 2013.
Martyn Scorsese stated "Lou’s lyrics have two lives: as they are sung and heard, and as they are read on the printed page. And I think that they could only have come from someone who grew up in the New York area and came of age in Manhattan, who moved and wrote and sang from the pulse of life in this city."
Rockarchive are proud to have some of the most iconic images of Lou Reed taken by Mick Rock in our collection
Lou Reed brooding with his 'Lou's Views' glasses on whilst in Modena, Italy in 2004.
Limited edition print of Morgan Howell's original painting of the cover of Lou Reed's 'Walk on the Wild Side' vingle single
Candid picture of Lou Reed buying a puppy in 1976 taken by Mick Rock
Noel recalls "Maine Road was where we all used to go as kids. So I was standing there, trying to make sure I never forgot this moment"
Exclusive David Bowie print specially created by The Postman for Rockarchive, based on a photograph taken by Dave Hogan at Live Aid in 1985
Led Zeppelin performing at Madison Square Garden, New York, USA 1977.
Relaxing backstage at Abbey Road Studios during the recording of debut album 'The Piper at the Gates of Dawn'
Björk Guðmundsdóttir, (born 21 November 1965), known mononymously as Björk is an Icelandic singer-songwriter.
Bob Marley was a Jamaican reggae singer, songwriter, musician, & guitarist who achieved international fame & acclaim.
Jeff Beck is one of rock’s most respected and dynamic instrumentalists. He is widely regarded as a “guitarist’s guitarist”.
David Bowie was a leading figure in popular music for over five decades & regarded by critics & musicians as a true innovator.
Here are the very latest prints we have added to our collection. We hope you love them as much as we do.
During his 30 year career Jake Chessum has shot defining images of musicians such as Amy Winehouse, Jay Z, The Beastie Boys & David Bowie.
Browse our collection of popular graphic art prints including iconic images by Storm Thorgerson and stunning work by contemporary artists.
Our contact sheet print collection is a rare opportunity to look back at the hidden moments surrounding some of rocks most iconic images.