This solo hit for Reed had originally been recorded by his former band The Velvet Underground. But when David Bowie and Mick Ronson were invited to help produce an updated version for Reed's "Transformer" album, Reed had a massive hit on his hands. The influence of Bowie (who can be heard among the backing singers) is undeniable, as is the familiar Ronson piano accompaniment and arrangement.
Despite the musical influence brought to bear, "Satellite Of Love" only peaked at number 10 after its 1972 release. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lou_Reed
@ian38018http://www.officialcharts.com/artist/_/lou%20reed/ gives you the highest UK positions for Lou Reed's single output of the time. You may or may not think a number 10 placing is a hit. Bear in mind that each of us collects and retains memories of music according to what focus we had at the time it was released. As I was/am 'Glam' obsessed, for me it was *BIG*. I believe it was a success then, but, more importantly for NOW maybe, it stands the test of time, and remains in the memory.
Apologies for misinformation. Although it received a lot of airplay back in 1972, it did NOT chart above #100 in that year! So says http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_of_Love (Note to self: must do better in future!)
Just a wee bit of wishful thinking perhaps, Lee. Nothing wrong with that of course. I remember when the song came out thinking it was Bowie's new one, and being baffled when it failed to chart at the time.
@MichelleJensen No, I've never seen 'Velvet Goldmine'. I'm pretty much with Bowie on that one. He refused to allow his identically-titled composition to be used as the main film theme for the project, due to his lack of belief in the artistic credibility of the venture. For myself, I would not enjoy watching a parody of Ziggy Stardust, I'm afraid. The 'real thing' was so much better, as portrayed by Bowie. IMO, of course!
17 Comments (since 25 Nov 2012)
leejohnson
This solo hit for Reed had originally been recorded by his former band The Velvet Underground. But when David Bowie and Mick Ronson were invited to help produce an updated version for Reed's "Transformer" album, Reed had a massive hit on his hands. The influence of Bowie (who can be heard among the backing singers) is undeniable, as is the familiar Ronson piano accompaniment and arrangement.
leejohnson
Despite the musical influence brought to bear, "Satellite Of Love" only peaked at number 10 after its 1972 release. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lou_Reed
Renhult
Bowie's singing at the end is pure magic. I always rewind to that part several times after I've been listening to the song.
ian38018
Tis a wonderful song, but I do not recall it being any sort of hit (certainly not in the UK).
leejohnson
@ian38018 http://www.officialcharts.com/artist/_/lou%20reed/ gives you the highest UK positions for Lou Reed's single output of the time. You may or may not think a number 10 placing is a hit. Bear in mind that each of us collects and retains memories of music according to what focus we had at the time it was released. As I was/am 'Glam' obsessed, for me it was *BIG*. I believe it was a success then, but, more importantly for NOW maybe, it stands the test of time, and remains in the memory.
leejohnson
Aha. Looking at that chart, it appears they have given the peak position for its re-release in 2004! My research has failed me! 8o
joeldurhamjr
It's okay, Lee. The song itself stand up, and is amazing in every way, quirky as it is. :)
leejohnson
Apologies for misinformation. Although it received a lot of airplay back in 1972, it did NOT chart above #100 in that year! So says http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Satellite_of_Love (Note to self: must do better in future!)
ian38018
Just a wee bit of wishful thinking perhaps, Lee. Nothing wrong with that of course. I remember when the song came out thinking it was Bowie's new one, and being baffled when it failed to chart at the time.
ian38018
PS - I too was a glam obsessive back in the day: http://therockandrollknife.blogspot.co.uk/2012/06/david-bowie-murrayfield-1983.html
gmdunning
Classic song from a classic album
lynn200
started listening,thought...wow bowie/l reed really are sooo alike......and you xplained. but without it,they really are
gillonthelizard
bom bom bom :)
Schell
one of my favorite love songs of all time. you have seen Velvet Goldmine, and it's use in the film?
AlicejustMay
Nothing to say about this track - just hell yeah, baby
leejohnson
@MichelleJensen No, I've never seen 'Velvet Goldmine'. I'm pretty much with Bowie on that one. He refused to allow his identically-titled composition to be used as the main film theme for the project, due to his lack of belief in the artistic credibility of the venture. For myself, I would not enjoy watching a parody of Ziggy Stardust, I'm afraid. The 'real thing' was so much better, as portrayed by Bowie. IMO, of course!
Deborah
Oh my. So beautiful, thanks.