The Kinks' 1970 single 'Lola' is a deceptively complex song, masquerading as a simple, catchy rock tune while exploring themes of gender and identity. Its suggestive lyrics and catchy melody made it a hit, despite — or perhaps because of — its ambiguous subject matter.
- The song was inspired by a confusing encounter Dave Davies had with a trans woman in Hamburg.
- 'Lola' was the Kinks' first single released on RCA Records in the UK, and also their first UK hit since 1967. It reached number 9 on the UK Singles Chart and number 34 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
- The song's lyrical content was considered daring for its time, yet its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus helped it achieve mainstream success.
The Kinks are a British rock band formed in London in 1963, known for their introspective and observational songs. By 1970, they had moved through several stylistic phases and were exploring a more theatrical approach to their music.
Tracklist
More from The Kinks
The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society1990
Kinks1964
Phobia1993
Arthur (Or the Decline and Fall of the British Empire)1969
Face to Face1966
Kinda Kinks1965
The Kinks Are the Village Green Preservation Society1968
Low Budget1979
Word of Mouth1984
Everybody's in Show-Biz1972
Days1968
Something Else by The Kinks1967
