"Transformer" is the second solo studio album by Lou Reed, released on November 8, 1972. Produced by David Bowie and Mick Ronson, it became a pivotal record in the development of glam rock and is considered one of Reed's most influential works. The album's breakout single, "Walk on the Wild Side," is particularly notable for its frank discussion of sexual orientation, gender identity, prostitution, and drug use, and it became one of Reed's most iconic songs.
"Transformer" features several songs Reed had written during his time with The Velvet Underground—including "Andy's Chest" and "Satellite of Love"—which were reworked for this album. The track "Vicious" was inspired by artist Andy Warhol, who had encouraged Reed to write about someone "vicious." Warhol’s influence on Reed remained strong, and his input is evident in the album's tone and themes.
The album was produced in London at Trident Studios with Bowie and Ronson, both fans of Reed’s Velvet Underground work. Ronson, who was Bowie’s guitarist at the time, contributed significantly to the album, playing guitar, piano, and providing string arrangements, notably for the song "Perfect Day." The album's musical style blends glam rock with Reed’s raw, poetic storytelling, exploring themes of urban life, alienation, and desire.
The album cover features a photograph by Mick Rock—a slightly over-exposed image that Reed loved for its accidental effect. It became one of the most memorable covers of the glam rock era. The back cover features a provocative image of a man and woman, with a controversial detail of a bulge that Reed later claimed was a banana stuffed down the man’s jeans.
Upon release, Transformer solidified Lou Reed's place in mainstream music, moving him beyond his cult following with The Velvet Underground. The album’s success marked the peak of his early solo career, leading to a newfound international fame. "Walk on the Wild Side" became one of the defining anthems of the 1970s and is still regarded as one of the greatest rock songs.
In later years, the album was re-released, with additional demos and a hidden track. After Reed's death in 2013, the album saw a surge in digital sales, further cementing its status as one of the most important works in rock music history.
