What makes Growing Up in Public by Lou Reed notable?

The album received mixed reviews upon release but has since gained recognition for its candid exploration of themes like love, loneliness, and self-reflection. It features the track 'The Power of Positive Drinking,' which sparked discussions around the artist's relationship with substance use and personal demons. Released in 1980, Growing Up in Public marked Lou Reed's return to solo work after a series of collaborations and less commercially successful albums. This album came just after his more experimental phase with The Bells (1979) and before the acclaimed New Sensations (1984), showcasing a shift back towards accessible songwriting amid a turbulent personal life.

Who is Growing Up in Public for?

Growing Up in Public works well if you're into steady, consistent energy levels, introspective storytelling journeys and mid-tempo reflective moments.

How many songs are on Growing Up in Public?

Growing Up in Public has 11 tracks, running approximately 36 minutes.

Growing Up in Public

Lou Reed · 1980

36 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of introspective lyrics and eclectic instrumentation that captures the complexities of personal growth and public perception.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Growing Up in Public — This title track encapsulates the album's essence, depicting the struggle between private identity and public persona through vivid storytelling.
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The Power of Positive Drinking — With its catchy chorus and humorous take on alcoholism, this track highlights Reed's ability to blend serious themes with levity, reflecting his complex relationship with fame.
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My Old Man — This song poignantly reflects on aging and nostalgia, showcasing Reed's lyrical prowess as he navigates themes of memory and change.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The album's blend of introspective lyrics and varied instrumentation creates a unique listening experience.

What we noticed

The first half of the album features a consistent mid-tempo pace, while the second half introduces more varied rhythms and instrumentation.
Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements alongside traditional singing, creating a conversational tone.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady, consistent energy levels
introspective storytelling journeys
mid-tempo reflective moments
thoughtful background listening

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Represents a solid entry in Reed's catalog, exploring personal themes without mainstream acclaim.
Career context: Released in 1980, Growing Up in Public marked Lou Reed's return to solo work after a series of collaborations and less commercially successful albums. This album came just after his more experimental phase with The Bells (1979) and before the acclaimed New Sensations (1984), showcasing a shift back towards accessible songwriting amid a turbulent personal life.
Stylistic neighbors: David Bowie· Iggy Pop· The Velvet Underground