I once had an argument with a friend in which I was adamant with my claim that The Velvet Underground were JUST as talented as The Beatles, only wayy more underrated. I still stand by this claim today. personally, I actually like The Velvet Underground more than The Beatles.
and as I listen to Loaded for the 34272398492th time, I am angered at why it's not as popular as Abbey Road. two great albums, one from a British band, one from an American one; both bands hailed alongside the sexual revolution, drugs, and pop art a la Andy Warhol. both albums are incredibly influential and a joy to listen to from start to finish. both albums were loved by critics and fans, and continue to be popular today among music enthusiasts. they were released very closely together, nearing the end of each band's career (Abbey Road was released in '69, Loaded in '70), marking the strong musicianship of these great bands, even when strife was abundant amongst the band.
now, compare:
The Beatles - Here Comes The Sun [mp3]
vs.
The Velvet Underground -Who Loves the Sun [mp3]
even though George is my favourite Beatle, I still like the VU tune better. what do you think?
PS Moe Tucker >>>>> Ringo Starr. but I will concede that Abbey Road has better album art...
7 comments:
I will get back to this with more coherent thoughts when I'm fully awake but, being British, I've grown up with Beatles songs so I feel more attached to them in a way. Memories linked to songs etc.
But the Velvets are just as special to me, if in a slightly more personal way as I always listen to them by myself.
It's a tough one.
Without in any way questioning the awesomeness of The Velvets, The Beatles are simply more versatile, more consistent, more prolific, and more relevant. The Velvets achieved something specific, The Beatles changed the world.
I think you are underrating Ringo. I do love both bands though and have to agree with hippiesaredead.
I also agree with hippiesaredead, the song is not only great on the surface, but each and every song goes so much deeper than that.
AND George Harrison FTW!
Along with also agreeing with hippiesaredead, you forget that the Beatles INFLUENCED the Velvet Underground quite a bit, especially Lou Reed's poppier stuff!
dudes, calm the fuck down, I love the Beatles! I just love the Velvets more. it's like carrot cake and chocolate fudge cake, I love both, but carrot cake inevitably gets consumed more. it's the more under-rated desert, but I don't eat it because it's under-rated; it only makes me angry when people don't recognize its brilliance.
The velvet uderground was a good band, but I prefer the beatles or CS&N.
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