Reed’s ambition to spawn a dance sensation predates his rise to fame with the Velvet Underground. In the early 1960s, while still a student at Syracuse University, Reed began experimenting with the idea of a dance that could capture the zeitgeist of the era. His vision was not just about creating a catchy tune or a simple step; it was about encapsulating the rebellious spirit of youth culture and the burgeoning counterculture movement.
Reed’s dance, which he dubbed “The Freak,” was intended to be a physical manifestation of the alienation and nonconformity that defined his generation. The steps were designed to be both provocative and liberating, encouraging dancers to break free from societal norms and express their true selves. Reed even went so far as to create a detailed instructional manual, complete with diagrams and step-by-step instructions, in the hopes of popularizing his creation.
Despite Reed’s meticulous planning and fervent belief in the potential of “The Freak,” the dance never gained the traction he had hoped for. The timing was off—the early 1960s were not yet ready for such a radical expression of individuality. Moreover, Reed’s focus soon shifted to music, where he found his true calling and the platform to articulate his vision on a much larger scale.
However, the story of “The Freak” is more than just a footnote in Lou Reed’s biography. It serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to innovation and his willingness to explore unconventional paths. Reed’s attempt to create a national dance craze reveals a side of him that was deeply invested in the cultural landscape of his time, always pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo.
In retrospect, it’s easy to see how Reed’s early foray into dance could have influenced his later work. The themes of rebellion, self-expression, and the rejection of societal norms that underpinned “The Freak” would resurface in the Velvet Underground’s music and Reed’s solo career, shaping some of the most iconic songs of the era.
Ultimately, while “The Freak” may not have become a national sensation, it remains a poignant reminder of Lou Reed’s boundless creativity and his relentless pursuit of artistic innovation. In a world where trends come and go with dizzying speed, Reed’s attempt to create a lasting cultural phenomenon stands as a testament to the enduring power of originality and the unyielding spirit of a true artist.
