Lou Reed is credited with having once said, "I don't like nostalgia unless it's mine," so it's fitting that a memorial for the influential singer and songwriter, planned for Thursday in New York, will be simple. Reed died last month at 71.
His Facebook page describes "A gathering open to the public — no speeches, no live performances, just Lou's voice, guitar music & songs — playing the recordings selected by his family and friends." The memorial will take place from 1-4 p.m. at the Paul Milstein Pool and Terrace at Lincoln Center in Manhattan.
Reed's death prompted an outpouring of tributes and remembrances from family and friends, including a moving essay by his wife, Laurie Anderson. Bono, Patti Smith, David Bowie producer Tony Visconti and other acquaintances and admirers also recalled their relationships with Reed, who fronted the Velvet Underground and recorded a sometimes confounding array of solo albums.
Reed had undergone a liver transplant this past spring. The singer had initially declared himself "bigger and stronger" after the operation, but complications from the transplant set in and doctors told Reed there were no additional options. He died at the home he shared with Anderson on Long Island.
More from Rolling Stone:
- Lou Reed's last words: Watch his final interview
- Remembering Lou Reed: Tributes from friends and followers
- Laurie Anderson's farewell to Lou Reed: A Rolling Stone exclusive