The Meaning Behind The Song: New Age by The Velvet Underground

The Meaning Behind The Song: New Age by The Velvet Underground

As a musician, there are certain songs that have a lasting impact on you. One of those songs for me is “New Age” by The Velvet Underground. I remember stumbling upon this song at a friend’s house, and from the very first listen, I was captivated by its unique sound and thought-provoking lyrics. Today, I want to delve into the meaning behind this iconic track and its significance in the band’s discography.

“New Age” is featured on The Velvet Underground’s album Loaded, released in 1970. The song was written by Lou Reed and sung by Doug Yule, with former band member John Cale contributing on organ. Loaded was the band’s fourth studio album and was known for its more mainstream sound compared to their earlier experimental works.

The lyrics of “New Age” are written from the perspective of a fan infatuated with an actress who has seen better years. The opening lines, “Can I have your autograph? He said to the fat blonde actress,” immediately set the stage for a story of admiration and longing. The fan expresses their devotion by mentioning every movie they have seen the actress in, showcasing their dedication and deep knowledge of her career.

Through the repetition of the phrases, “You’re over the hill right now, and you’re looking for love,” the song explores the vulnerability and desire for love that exists within the fan. It suggests that, despite the actress’s fading stardom, she still craves affection and seeks companionship.

The bridge of the song adds an intriguing layer of emotion. With the lines, “Something’s got a hold on me, and I don’t know what,” the song hints at a deeper longing or attachment that the fan feels towards the actress. It could be interpreted as an obsession or simply a profound connection that is difficult to define.

Ultimately, “New Age” portrays a bittersweet narrative of unrequited love and the complexities of fame. The fan’s infatuation with the actress is both endearing and somewhat pitiful, highlighting the transient nature of adoration and the loneliness that can exist even in the midst of admiration.

It is interesting to note that an early version of “New Age,” available on the album 1969: The Velvet Underground Live, features completely different lyrics. In this version, Lou Reed addresses his girlfriend at the time, Shelley Albin, as well as his own bisexuality. This showcases the evolution of the song and how lyrics can transform as artists explore different themes and perspectives.

“New Age” has had a lasting impact not only within The Velvet Underground’s discography but also in the wider music industry. It has been sampled by artists such as Tori Amos in her song “New Age” and even appeared in Kurt Cobain’s “Montage of Heck.”

For me, “New Age” remains a timeless gem that encapsulates the raw emotion and poetic storytelling that made The Velvet Underground such a groundbreaking band. It serves as a testament to how music can truly touch the soul and evoke a plethora of emotions within the listener.