Despite poor sales when their LPs were released in the ’60s, the Velvet Underground were and are one of the most influential rock bands of all time—and we mean influential in every imaginable sphere of modern and . . . let’s just say “postVelvets” rock ’n’ roll. A quote that’s been attributed to many people, but probably originated with Brian Eno, suggests that every person who bought the Velvet Underground albums went out and formed their own rock band. And be it the whole punk explosion of the ’70s (or its forebearers like the Stooges, Roxy Music, Patti Smith, etc.), Annie Lennox singing “Satellite Of Love” in front of thousands, David Bowie singing “White Light/White Heat” in front of millions, R.E.M. including not one, not two, but three Velvet Underground covers on their last record, John Cougar telling Lou Reed that “I’m basically here because of you,” the white noise of speed metal, a battle of the bands in Austin, Texas in which the groups play nothing but “Sweet Jane,” a clever Honda commercial, or a sad, lonely kid out there whose life is saved (literally) because of a Lou Reed song— the Velvets’ influence continues to be phenomenally pervasive, almost overwhelming at times.

In a year that’s been rife with 20th anniversaries, we thought it fitting to pay tribute to one of the greatest rock ’n’ roll bands in the history of the world. We had interviews with John Cale, Sterling Morrison, Maureen Tucker, Nico, Doug Yule and LaMonte Young. Would Lou be willing to talk about the band? “Well, I’m talking to you” came the monotone reply— so away we go...