About the song
Lou Reed’s “Sweet Jane” is a timeless rock anthem that has solidified its place in music history since its release in 1970 as part of The Velvet Underground’s album *Loaded*. Known for its infectious guitar riff and poetic lyrics, “Sweet Jane” embodies Lou Reed’s ability to blend storytelling with raw rock energy.
As a founding member and principal songwriter of The Velvet Underground, Lou Reed shaped the band’s avant-garde sound and lyrical themes that challenged conventions of the time. “Sweet Jane” stands out as one of the band’s most commercially successful songs, despite its initial reception being modest.
*Loaded*, the album on which “Sweet Jane” appears, was a critical success and peaked at No. 109 on the Billboard 200 chart. Although “Sweet Jane” itself did not achieve high chart positions upon its release, it gained significant acclaim over time and became a staple on rock radio stations.
The song’s lyrics tell a story of disillusionment and hope, capturing the essence of the counterculture movement of the 1960s. Its anthemic chorus and Reed’s distinctive vocals resonate with listeners, reflecting themes of rebellion and yearning for authenticity.
Lou Reed’s influence on rock music extends far beyond “Sweet Jane,” as he continued to push boundaries with his solo career, exploring themes of urban life, identity, and societal critique. His unique perspective and uncompromising approach to songwriting have cemented his legacy as a pioneering figure in rock history.
“Sweet Jane” remains a testament to Lou Reed’s ability to craft songs that transcend generations, maintaining relevance and emotional impact decades after its release. Its enduring popularity underscores its status as a classic rock anthem that continues to inspire and resonate with listeners worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
Standing on the corner
Suitcase in my hand
Jack’s in his corset, Jane is in her vest
Me, I’m in a rock and roll band
Ridin’ a Stutz Bear Cat
Those were different times
Poets studied rules of verse and ladies rolled their eyes
sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
Jacky, he is a banker
Jane, she is a clerk
Both them save their monies
Are reasons when they come home from work
Sittin’ by the fire
Radio does play “March of the Wooden Soldiers”
Then you can hear Jack say
sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
Jacky, he is a banker
And Jane, she is a clerk
But both them save their monies
When they come home from work
They be both sittin’ near by the fire
The radio does play “March of the Wooden Soldiers”
And you can hear Jack say
sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane)
Some people, some peoples, they like to go out dancing
Hey, hey, there’s other people who like to get the work done
Better watch me now
There’s even some evil old motherfuckers
They’re gonna tell you that life is just made of dirt
That pretty women never really faint
That villains always blink their eyes
That little bit children are the only one to blush
That life, that life is just to die
But I’m gonna tell you something, it wasn’t in her heart
Yeah, they wouldn’t, they wouldn’t turn around and break it
Anyone who’s ever played a part
They wouldn’t turn around and hate it, let’s go
sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
(Sweet Jane) sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane