About the song
“Sweet Jane” is a timeless classic that has captivated the hearts of music enthusiasts for decades. Written by the enigmatic Lou Reed, the song has become an iconic staple of rock music, with its haunting melody and poignant lyrics weaving a spell that continues to enthrall audiences to this day. As the primary songwriter and band leader of the Velvet Underground, Reed’s creative genius is evident in every note, every chord, and every word of “Sweet Jane”.
First released in 1970 on the album “Loaded”, “Sweet Jane” was a departure from the Velvet Underground’s typical avant-garde sound, showcasing Reed’s ability to craft a catchy, radio-friendly hit. The song’s origins, however, date back to the band’s earlier days, with Reed first performing the song in 1968. Over the years, “Sweet Jane” has undergone numerous transformations, with Reed continuing to refine and reimagine the piece, incorporating it into his live performances even after he left the Velvet Underground.
Throughout its evolution, “Sweet Jane” has remained a fan favorite, with its themes of love, loss, and longing resonating deeply with listeners. The song’s lyrics, penned by Reed, are a masterclass in storytelling, painting a vivid picture of a world that is both familiar and yet, utterly unique. From the opening lines, “So Hugo’s wife, she brought him his lunch / And he sat down and he watched the people pass by”, to the song’s soaring chorus, “Oh, sweet Jane, she’s one of a kind / She’s one of a kind, she’s one of a kind”, “Sweet Jane” is a testament to Reed’s skill as a songwriter and his ability to craft songs that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.
In the years since its release, “Sweet Jane” has been covered by countless artists, from punk rockers to indie folk musicians, each putting their own unique spin on the song. However, it is Lou Reed’s original version that remains the most iconic, a testament to his enduring legacy as a musician and songwriter. As a song that has transcended generations and genres, “Sweet Jane” is a true classic, a masterpiece that continues to inspire and captivate audiences to this day.
Video
Lyrics
Anyone who’s ever had a heart
Wouldn’t turn around and break it
And anyone who’s ever played a part
Wouldn’t turn around and hate it
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Oh, sweet, sweet Jane
You’re waiting for Jimmy down in the alley
You were waiting there for him to come back home
You’re waiting down on the corner
And thinking of ways to get back home
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Ah, sweet, sweet Jane
Anyone who’s ever had a dream
Anyone who’s ever played a part
Anyone who’s ever been lonely
And anyone who’s ever split apart
Sweet Jane, sweet Jane
Oh, sweet, sweet Jane
Heavenly wine and roses
Seem to whisper to me when you smile
Heavenly wine and roses
Seem to whisper to me when you smile
La-la-la-la, la-la-la
La-la-la, la-la-la
Na-na-na-na, na-na-na
Na-na-na, na-na-na
Sweet Jane
Sweet, sweet Jane