“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
In the vibrant and transformative landscape of 1970s rock, few songs capture the spirit of the era as vividly as “Lola” by The Kinks. My first encounter with “Lola” was through an old vinyl collection I inherited from my uncle, who often spoke of the song’s bold narrative and unforgettable riff. This track not only shaped my understanding of rock music but also highlighted the daring storytelling that defined the genre during that period.
About The Composition
- Title: Lola
- Composer: Ray Davies
- Premiere Date: 12 June 1970
- Album/Opus/Collection: Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One
- Genre: Rock
Background
“Lola” was penned by Ray Davies, the lead singer and songwriter of The Kinks. Released as a single in 1970, it was part of the album “Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One.” The song narrates an encounter between a young man and a transgender woman, a bold and controversial topic for its time. Inspired by a real-life incident experienced by the band’s manager, “Lola” stands out for its fearless exploration of themes surrounding gender and identity. Upon its release, the song received significant attention, both for its catchy tune and its provocative lyrics, cementing its place as a classic in The Kinks’ repertoire.
Musical Style
“Lola” is distinguished by its infectious riff and straightforward rock instrumentation. The song features a memorable acoustic guitar introduction that sets the tone, followed by a robust electric guitar and steady rhythm section. Ray Davies’ vocals, characterized by their distinctive British inflection and expressive delivery, add a personal touch to the narrative. The song’s structure is relatively simple, with a verse-chorus format that makes it accessible and catchy. Unique techniques, such as the playful use of dynamics and the storytelling approach, contribute to its lasting impact.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Lola” tell the story of a young man’s night out in Soho, where he meets Lola, who “walked like a woman and talked like a man.” The narrative explores themes of identity and acceptance, presenting a candid and empathetic portrayal of a transgender character at a time when such topics were rarely addressed in mainstream music. The juxtaposition of the upbeat musical style with the provocative lyrics creates a compelling and thought-provoking listening experience.
Performance History
“Lola” has been performed countless times by The Kinks and other artists, becoming a staple in their live shows. Its performances often highlight the song’s engaging narrative and energetic composition, drawing enthusiastic responses from audiences. Over the years, the song has maintained its popularity, reflecting its significant role in rock history.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its initial success, “Lola” has left an indelible mark on popular culture. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its status as an iconic rock anthem. The song’s bold exploration of gender identity has also contributed to ongoing conversations about inclusivity and representation in music and beyond.
Legacy
“Lola” remains a testament to The Kinks’ innovative spirit and Ray Davies’ songwriting prowess. Its relevance endures as it continues to resonate with new generations of listeners, offering both a catchy tune and a meaningful narrative. The song’s legacy is evident in its continued presence in popular culture and its influence on subsequent artists who tackle complex social themes in their music.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Lola,” it’s clear why this song has stood the test of time. Its blend of catchy rock elements and groundbreaking lyrics makes it a unique and powerful piece. I encourage everyone to delve into this classic, perhaps starting with the original recording by The Kinks, to fully appreciate its artistry and impact.
Video
Lyrics
I met her in a club down in old Soho
Where you drink champagne and it tastes just like Coca-Cola
C-O-L-A, Cola
She walked up to me and she asked me to dance
I asked her her name and in a dark brown voice she said, “Lola”
L-O-L-A, Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Well, I’m not the world’s most physical guy
But when she squeezed me tight, she nearly broke my spine
Oh, my Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Well, I’m not dumb, but I can’t understand
Why she walks like a woman and talks like a man
Oh, my Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Well, we drank champagne and danced all night
Under electric candlelight
She picked me up and sat me on her knee
She said, “Little boy, won’t you come home with me?”
Well, I’m not the world’s most passionate guy
But when I looked in her eyes, well, I almost fell for my Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
I pushed her away
I walked to the door
I fell to the floor
I got down on my knees
Well, I looked at her, and she at me
Well, that’s the way that I want it to stay
And I always want it to be that way for my Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Girls will be boys and boys will be girls
It’s a mixed up, muddled up, shook up world
Except for Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Well, I’d left home just a week before
And I’d never, ever kissed a woman before
Lola smiled and took me by the hand
She said, “Little boy, gonna make you a man”
Well, I’m not the world’s most masculine man
But I know what I am and I’m glad I’m a man
And so is Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lo-Lo-Lo-Lo-Lola
Lola