Portrait of Lou Reed by Chuck Close (Photo By Gail)

Lou Reed, a pioneering and wildly influential rock guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, passed away today, October 27th, 2013 in NYC.  Although Reed just underwent a liver transplant in May of this year, the cause of death appears to be liver failure. Very sad. Reed was 71 years old. Rolling Stone has a career comprehensive Obituary and This Link. Favorite Lou Reed Songs: “Perfect Day” and “Satellite of Love.” RIP.