About the song
Lou Reed’s “Coney Island Baby” is a heartfelt ballad that showcases his poetic lyricism and introspective songwriting, released in 1975 as the title track of his solo album *Coney Island Baby*. As a prominent figure in the rock music scene, Lou Reed has continually pushed boundaries with his exploration of urban life and personal introspection.
The album *Coney Island Baby* marked a departure from Reed’s earlier works with The Velvet Underground, focusing more on personal reflection and nostalgia. The title track, “Coney Island Baby,” embodies Reed’s evocative storytelling and his ability to capture the essence of a specific time and place.
Although not a chart-topping hit, *Coney Island Baby* received positive reviews for its sincerity and musical craftsmanship. The album’s title track resonated with fans for its tender lyrics and Reed’s distinctively soulful vocal delivery.
Throughout his career, Lou Reed has been recognized for his influence on alternative rock and punk music. His contributions as a solo artist, including “Coney Island Baby,” have solidified his status as a pioneer in experimental and avant-garde rock genres.
The song itself reflects Reed’s love for rock and roll and his connection to New York City, particularly Coney Island, as a backdrop for storytelling. Its melodic simplicity and heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate listeners, making it a standout in Reed’s extensive discography.
“Coney Island Baby” remains a poignant reminder of Lou Reed’s artistic depth and his ability to evoke emotions through music. Its enduring appeal speaks to Reed’s legacy as a visionary songwriter who continues to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike with his unique voice and storytelling prowess.
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Lyrics
You know, man, when I was a young man in high school
You believe in or not, that I wanted to play football for the coach
And all those older guys
They said that he was mean and cruel but you know
I wanted to play football, for the coach
They said I was a little too lightweight to play lineback and so I’m playing right-end
Wanted to play football for the coach
‘Cause, you know some day, man you gotta stand up straight unless you’re gonna fall
Then you’re going to die
And the straightest dude I ever knew was standing right for me, all the time
So I had to play football for the coach
And I wanted to play football for the coach
When you’re all alone and lonely
In your midnight hour
And you find that your soul
It has been up for sale
And you’re getting to think about
All the things that you done
And you’re getting to hate
Just about everything
But remember the princess who lived on the hill
Who loved you even though she knew you was wrong
And right now she just might come shining through
And the
Glory of love
Glory of love
Glory of love, just might come through
And all your two-bit friends have gone and ripped you off
They’re talking behind your back saying “man, you are never going to be no human being”
And you start thinking again about all those things that you’ve done
And who it was and what it was
And all the different things that made every different scene
Ah, but remember that the city is a funny place
Something like a circus or a sewer
And just remember, different people have peculiar tastes
And the
Glory of love
The glory of love
The glory of love, might see you through
Yeah, but now, now
Glory of love
The glory of love
The glory of love might see you through
Glory of love, uh, huh-huh
The glory of love
Glory of love, glory of love
Glory of love, now, glory of love, now
Glory of love, now, now, now, glory of love
Glory of love, give it to me now, glory of love to see you through, huh
Oh, my Coney Island baby, now
I’m a Coney Island baby, now
I’d like to send this one out to Lou and Rachel
And all the kids at P.S. one-ninety-two (Coney Island baby)
Man, I’d swear, I’d give the whole thing up for you