About The Song
“Lola” is a classic rock song performed by The Kinks, released in 1970. It’s a witty and catchy track that tells the story of a young man’s encounter with a transgender woman named Lola. Let’s explore the details of this iconic song.
Background:
- Artist: “Lola” was recorded by The Kinks, a British rock band known for their innovative songwriting and distinctive sound.
- Release Date: The song was released in 1970 as a single and later included on The Kinks’ album “Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One.”
- Composer: “Lola” was written by Ray Davies, the lead vocalist and primary songwriter of The Kinks.
Musical Style:
- Genre: The song falls into the rock and roll and glam rock genres, characterized by its infectious melody, driving rhythm, and catchy hooks.
- Arrangement: “Lola” features a dynamic arrangement, with a lively guitar riff, propulsive drums, and Ray Davies’ distinctive vocal delivery.
- Mood: The mood of the song is upbeat and playful, with lyrics that blend humor and social commentary.
Lyrics:
- Theme: The lyrics of “Lola” tell the story of a young man who meets a transgender woman named Lola in a club, and the unexpected twists and turns of their encounter.
- Imagery: The song paints vivid images of the club scene, with references to dancing, drinking, and the colorful characters encountered by the narrator.
- Emotion: Ray Davies’ witty and observational lyrics convey a sense of curiosity and amusement, as well as a subtle exploration of gender identity and sexual fluidity.
Cultural Impact:
- Commercial Success: “Lola” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of The Kinks’ most popular songs.
- Cultural Influence: The song has been covered by numerous artists and featured in films, TV shows, and commercials, and remains a beloved favorite among fans of The Kinks’ music.
- Legacy: “Lola” has endured as a timeless classic, its catchy melody and clever lyrics continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.
Legacy:
- Timeless Appeal: Decades after its release, “Lola” remains a beloved favorite among fans of The Kinks and rock music, its infectious energy and playful lyrics ensuring its enduring popularity.
- Musical Influence: The song’s influence can be heard in its enduring popularity and its impact on subsequent generations of rock musicians.
- Cultural Significance: “Lola” holds a special place in the history of popular music, serving as a reminder of The Kinks’ creativity and innovation, as well as their willingness to explore taboo subjects with humor and insight.
Conclusion:
“Lola” stands as a timeless testament to The Kinks’ talent and creativity. With its catchy melody, witty lyrics, and infectious energy, the song continues to captivate listeners, inviting them to join in the fun and revelry of the club scene. As a cultural icon, “Lola” remains a cherished favorite, reminding us of the enduring power of music to entertain, provoke thought, and celebrate the diversity of human experience.
Video
Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
I met her in a club down in old Soho
Where you drink champagne and it tastes just like cherry-cola [LP version – 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 la-la-la-la 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 la-la-la-la Lola
Well I’m not dumb but I can’t understand
Why she walked like a woman and talked like a man
Oh my Lola la-la-la-la Lola la-la-la-la Lola
Well we drank champagne and danced all night
Under electric candlelight
She picked me up and sat me on her knee
And 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
La-la-la-la Lola la-la-la-la Lola
Lola la-la-la-la Lola la-la-la-la Lola
I pushed her away
I walked to the door
I fell to the floor
I got down on my knees
Then 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
La-la-la-la Lola
Girls will be boys and boys will be girls
It’s a mixed up muddled up shook up world except for Lola
La-la-la-la Lola
Well I left home just a week before
And I’d never ever kissed a woman before
But Lola smiled and took me by the hand
And said dear boy I’m 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
La-la-la-la Lola la-la-la-la Lola
Lola la-la-la-la Lola la-la-la-la Lola