It has been said that only a hundred people bought The Velvet Underground’s debut album but every one of them started a band. They are certainly one of the most influential groups in rock history, though I’m not very familiar with their output.
The one album of theirs I own is their third, self-titled disc. I picked it up because it contains the original version of ‘Pale Blue Eyes,’ which I fell in love with via an R.E.M. cover. The original is quite lovely, as is much of the album. ‘Candy Says’ and ‘That’s the Story of My Life’ are two other favorites of mine.
But the song from this album that sticks with me the most is the irresistibly earnest ‘After Hours.’ Sung by drummer Maureen Tucker, it’s a real change of pace from Lou Reed’s typical exploration of drugs, sex and pain. It’s a beautifully innocent and sweet song that, like the band in general, doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
Meet Me In Montauk 
I must admit that I know very little of Velvet Underground’s music. I heard a bit more of Lou Reed when he went solo. I’ll have to check them out at some point.
This is a song that I know thanks to one of those much ballyhooed mix tapes. I found it charming then, and I still find it charming. I associate this band with the college roomate of one of my high school friends. She was crazy for them and incessantly played a song that I liked very much but can’t seem to locate now – as I don’t know its name. Any guesses? 🙂 A quick YouTube search was no use.