About the song
“Perfect Day,” penned by American musician Lou Reed in 1972, stands as a poignant testament to his songwriting prowess and enduring legacy. Originally part of Reed’s album “Transformer,” produced by David Bowie and featuring Mick Ronson’s distinctive piano and string arrangements, the song captivates listeners with its somber vocals and minimalist yet evocative instrumentation.
The genesis of “Perfect Day” traces back to a serene outing in Central Park with Reed’s then-fiancée, Bettye Kronstad, offering a glimpse into Reed’s personal life and emotions. While the lyrics seemingly celebrate a simple day of romantic bliss, Reed’s own complexities—struggles with sexuality, drug use, and ego—add layers of depth to its interpretation. Despite the popular notion linking the song to themes of addiction, Reed himself dismissed this, emphasizing the straightforward narrative of love and companionship.
Over the years, “Perfect Day” has achieved iconic status, buoyed by its appearances in various media. Its inclusion in the soundtrack of the 1996 film “Trainspotting” propelled it back into popular consciousness, highlighting its versatility to underscore narratives of both addiction and poignant moments in cinema. Moreover, a star-studded rendition released as a BBC charity single in 1997 topped charts across the UK, Ireland, and Norway, further solidifying its place in musical history.
Beyond film, “Perfect Day” has resonated in television commercials, such as those for AT&T and Sony, and has been featured in numerous TV shows, including “Fear the Walking Dead” and “Doom Patrol,” each time adding emotional depth and narrative resonance to the scenes it accompanies. Its enduring appeal is underscored by recent adaptations, such as an orchestral rendition by composer Ramin Djawadi for “Westworld” and its prominent placement in the film “Perfect Days” by Wim Wenders.
Lou Reed’s vision for “Perfect Day” remains a timeless reflection on love and the simplicity of a cherished moment. With its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, the song continues to weave itself into the fabric of popular culture, ensuring its place as a classic ode to the beauty found in life’s fleeting moments of perfection.
Video
Lyrics
Just a perfect day
drink sangria in a park
and then later
when it gets dark we go home
Just a perfect day
feed animals in the zoo
and then later a movie, too
and then home
Oh it’s such a perfect day
I’m glad I spend it with you
oh such a perfect dayyou just keep me hangin on
you just keep me hangin on
just a perfect day
problems are left to know
Weekenders all night long
it’s such fun
just a perfect day
you make me forget myself
I thought I was someone else
someone good
-refrain-