Seeing the Light by Rob Jovanovic

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Synopsis

An absorbing account of one of the most influential bands in rock history, with exclusive new contributions from band membersBrian Eno famously said “the first Velvet Underground album only sold 10,000 copies, but everyone who bought it formed a band.”  Perhaps no other band can claim such scant chart success and so enduring a legacy.  David Bowie, U2, R.E.M. and even Czech president Václav Havel have all cited the Velvets as a major influence.  Seeing the... more

An absorbing account of one of the most influential bands in rock history, with exclusive new contributions from band membersBrian Eno famously said “the first Velvet Underground album only sold 10,000 copies, but everyone who bought it formed a band.”  Perhaps no other band can claim such scant chart success and so enduring a legacy.  David Bowie, U2, R.E.M. and even Czech president Václav Havel have all cited the Velvets as a major influence.  Seeing the Light presents the untold story of the band. Formed by Lou Reed and John Cale, the band first achieved notoriety after being adopted by Andy Warhol. Warhol’s patronage enabled them to chart unexplored regions of rock, producing unforgettable and unsettling music that took in tales of drug addiction, prostitution, and sexual deviance. Creative tensions and frustrated ambition eventually saw both Cale and Reed depart, to the band’s ignominious end.  In the decades since, The Velvet Underground’s music has attained classic status, revered alongside The Beatles and The Beach Boys. With exclusive new interviews with members Moe Tucker and Doug Yule, as well as the widow of bandmate Sterling Morrison, journalist Rob Jovanovic peels back the mystique of one of the most important bands in rock history. less

About Rob Jovanovic

ROB JOVANOVIC is the author of books on Nirvana, Kate Bush, and Big Star.  He has contributed to such music magazines as Mojo, Record Collector, and Uncut.