The Kinks’ ‘Lola’: A Controversial Classic That Changed Rock History

The Kinks’ “Lola” is a classic rock song that caused a stir upon its release in 1970 for its playful ambiguity around gender identity. Here’s a deeper look into this iconic tune:

Origins and Release:

• Written by Ray Davies, frontman of The Kinks.
• Released in 1970 as the lead single from the album “Lola Versus Powerman and the Moneygoround, Part One.”
• The song quickly became a hit, reaching number two on the UK Singles Chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the US.

Genre: Rock

Lyrics and Theme:

• The song tells the story of a young narrator encountering an attractive woman named Lola in a club in Soho, London.
• The lyrics are filled with double entendres and playful confusion as the narrator questions Lola’s identity (“walked like a woman but talked like a man”).
• Despite the ambiguity, the narrator remains smitten with Lola (“I fell in love with Lola”).

Impact and Legacy:

• “Lola” caused controversy upon release due to its references to gender identity, a topic not widely discussed at the time.
• The song became an anthem for sexual liberation and breaking social norms in the early 1970s.
• It remains a popular and enduring song celebrated for its catchy melody and clever lyrics.

Musical Style:

• The song features a driving rock beat with prominent piano and rhythm guitar work.
• The catchy melody and carefree vocals complement the playful lyrics.

Interesting Tidbits:

• The song’s title character, Lola, was inspired by a transvestite Ray Davies encountered in Spain.
• The ambiguity of the lyrics led to multiple interpretations about Lola’s identity.
• Ray Davies has remained intentionally vague about Lola’s true nature, leaving it up to listeners’ imaginations.

Want to hear the song?

You can find “Lola” by The Kinks on most streaming platforms. There’s also the official music video available on YouTube: you can search for “The Kinks – Lola (Official Music Video)”.

Here are some additional questions you might be interested in:

• Would you like to explore other songs by The Kinks?
• Are you interested in learning more about the glam rock movement of the 1970s, where gender-bending style was prominent?
• What other classic rock songs deal with themes of gender identity?