Essential Listening #62: Sweet Jane

This song has an awesome long guitar intro with harmony guitars. Steve Hunter was one of the guitar players. He also worked with Peter Gabriel on his first solo album. Dick Wagner was the other guitarist. The intro made the song. I don’t care much for the rest of the song.

Details

“Sweet Jane” is one of Lou Reed’s most iconic songs, originally recorded with The Velvet Underground and later performed as a solo artist. Known for its catchy riff and evocative lyrics, the song has been a staple of rock music since its release. The version with the extended guitar intro, famously performed by Reed and his band in the 1970s, adds an extra layer of musical depth and is especially celebrated by fans. Here’s an in-depth look at “Sweet Jane,” focusing on the version with the long guitar intro:

Song Overview

• Title: Sweet Jane
• Artist: Lou Reed
• Original Band: The Velvet Underground
• Album (Original): Loaded (1970)
• Album (Live Version with Long Intro): Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal (1974)
• Genre: Rock, Proto-Punk
• Length:
  • Original: 3:55
  • Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal Version: 7:57
• Label: RCA Records
• Writer: Lou Reed
• Producers:
  • Loaded: Geoff Haslam, Shel Kagan, and The Velvet Underground
  • Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal: Steve Katz, Lou Reed

Background and History

The Velvet Underground Version

• Album Context: “Sweet Jane” was originally released on Loaded, the fourth studio album by The Velvet Underground, in 1970. The album was intended to have commercial appeal, leading to a more polished and radio-friendly sound compared to their earlier work.
• Recording and Release: Recorded in 1970, “Sweet Jane” quickly became a standout track. Despite the album’s name, Loaded ironically refers to being “loaded” with hits, a goal that was partially realized with this song. However, internal band conflicts and lineup changes overshadowed its initial release.
• Song Structure: The original version features a straightforward rock structure with a memorable guitar riff and a laid-back groove. The lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and streetwise narratives, capture Lou Reed’s distinctive storytelling style.

Live Version and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal”

• Album Context: The live version of “Sweet Jane” with the extended intro appears on Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal, a live album recorded on December 21, 1973, at the Howard Stein’s Academy of Music in New York City, and released in 1974. This album is one of Reed’s most successful solo releases and showcases his transition from the underground to a more mainstream rock sound.
• The Long Intro: The extended guitar intro, played by guitarists Steve Hunter and Dick Wagner, has become legendary. This instrumental section, often referred to as the “Intro,” is noted for its soaring guitar harmonies and dynamic build-up, setting the stage for the main song. It showcases a blend of hard rock and progressive rock elements, with intricate interplay between the two guitarists.
• Impact on Live Performances: This version of “Sweet Jane” became a highlight of Reed’s live performances and is often considered one of the greatest live rock recordings. The intro sets an atmospheric tone before transitioning into the familiar riff, creating an electrifying experience for audiences.

Musical Style and Composition

• Original Version:
  • Riff and Melody: The original version features a simple but unforgettable guitar riff, forming the backbone of the song. The chord progression (usually E-A-B) is straightforward, allowing Reed’s vocal delivery and lyrical content to take center stage.
  • Lyrics: The lyrics of “Sweet Jane” depict everyday life, love, and dreams. They feature characters like Jack and Jane, symbolizing the blend of mundane and poetic elements in urban life. Themes of escape and longing are central to the song’s narrative.
• Live Version (Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal):
  • Guitar Intro: The long intro, composed by Steve Hunter, is characterized by its melodic and harmonic complexity. It begins with gentle arpeggios and gradually builds into a powerful crescendo, blending bluesy licks with classical-inspired motifs.
  • Arrangement: The live arrangement incorporates a more aggressive rock sound, with a heavier emphasis on electric guitar and dynamic shifts. The rhythm section provides a driving groove, supporting the extended instrumental sections.
  • Vocals: Reed’s vocal performance on the live version is more impassioned, complementing the energy of the band and the elaborate guitar work.

Themes and Lyrics

• Themes: “Sweet Jane” explores themes of urban life, love, and rock ‘n’ roll. It captures a sense of youthful rebellion and romanticism, with lyrics that paint vivid scenes of city life.
• Lyrics: The song’s lyrics contrast the mundane aspects of daily life with the excitement and freedom of rock music. The characters, Jack and Jane, are emblematic of everyday people finding solace and meaning in music and dreams.
• Symbolism: The song’s title and recurring refrain emphasize the simplicity and beauty of love and music, serving as a reminder of the power of these elements in overcoming life’s challenges.

Impact and Legacy

• Critical Acclaim: “Sweet Jane” is widely regarded as one of Lou Reed’s greatest songs and a classic of rock music. The live version, in particular, has been praised for its virtuosic guitar work and powerful performance.
• Influence: The song has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including Mott the Hoople, Cowboy Junkies, and Phish. Each cover highlights the song’s versatility and enduring appeal.
• Cultural Significance: “Sweet Jane” has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a cultural touchstone. Its timeless appeal continues to resonate with new generations of listeners.

Notable Covers and Versions

• Mott the Hoople: Their 1972 cover added glam rock elements, contributing to the song’s popularity and helping to bridge the gap between underground and mainstream rock.
• Cowboy Junkies: The band’s 1988 cover on their album The Trinity Session presents a stripped-down, haunting version that highlights the song’s lyrical depth.
• Lou Reed’s Solo Performances: Reed often performed “Sweet Jane” throughout his career, with various arrangements and interpretations that showcased his evolving artistry.

Conclusion

“Sweet Jane” is a quintessential Lou Reed composition, exemplifying his talent for crafting memorable melodies and vivid lyrical narratives. The version with the long guitar intro, as heard on Rock ‘n’ Roll Animal, elevates the song to new heights with its stunning musicianship and dynamic energy. Whether in its original form or as a live epic, “Sweet Jane” remains a beloved classic, capturing the spirit of rock ‘n’ roll and the enduring allure of urban life.