All Tomorrow's Parties (Velvet Underground)

10 JULY 1966


The Velvet Underground’s somewhat moribund debut single ‘All Tomorrow’s Parties’ was released in the USA during this month, but did not chart. It also featured on their debut album The Velvet Underground & Nico.in 1967.

This recording featured a lead vocal from German 'singer-songwriter, lyricist, composer, musician, fashion model, and actress' Nico. Her distinctive, heavy cabaret voice can best be described as an 'acquired taste', and the reluctant band had only taken her on at the insistence of manager Andy Warhol. This was apparently his favourite Velvet Underground song.

Although this style contributed to the bands 'arthouse' image, it would have been interesting to hear songs like this sung by somebody who could actually sing.

Released: July 1966 
Recorded: April 1966, Scepter Studios, Manhattan
Length: 5:55 
Label: Verve
Writer: Lou Reed
Producer: Andy Warhol

All Tomorrow's Parties (Velvet Underground)