Ordinary Individual within Society
In the heart of Aberdeen, Scotland, Gary Shand, a self-proclaimed Scottish screiver, Beat poet, horror novelist, and chronicler of the working class, found his muse in the dark, experimental sounds of Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground.
Gary's artistic journey began in the early '80s, while working as an Admin Assistant. It was during this time that he discovered the pioneering music of Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground, which would go on to significantly influence his writing and musical style.
Union Street, Aberdeen, a stretch of granite buildings known as the 'Granite Mile', served as the backdrop for Gary's memories and, in turn, his writing. However, the street has undergone changes due to Low Emission Zones, the Covid-19 pandemic, and continuous repairs, altering the landscape of Gary's musings.
Gary's writing encompasses memoirish flash fiction, biographical writings, and a semi-fictionalized biography. He is currently working on a collection of autobiographical stories titled 'Scenes from a Life - the autobiographical ramblings of Gary Shand'. He also ponders the possibility of becoming a local historian and running guided historical tours in his area.
Music has always been a source of inspiration for Gary, and he has an imagined soundtrack for each decade of his life. Among his favourites are 'The Velvet Underground and Nico' and Reed's solo albums from 'The Blue Mask' onwards, including the poignant 'Average Guy'. This song, he believes, reflects his personal life.
Lou Reed, one of Gary's favourite musicians, is credited with helping shape genres like gothic rock and glam rock, both known for their experimental and theatrical qualities. The Velvet Underground's songs, such as "All Tomorrow’s Parties" and "Venus in Furs", are considered mesmerizing gothic-rock masterpieces and foundational to the goth sound, with a dark atmosphere and somber lyrics that continue to inspire musicians today.
Gary appreciates Lou Reed's almost spoken intonation of words and the profound lyrics he wrote. Being on stage with Lou Reed himself was a career highlight for many musicians, providing valuable artistic insights and mentorship. This direct interaction with Lou Reed likely fostered patience and a deeper understanding of stagecraft and performance in Gary.
Despite the lack of success with his poetry, Gary continues to write, undeterred by the opinions of others. He no longer worries about what others think, having grown accustomed to his unique voice and style. Gary's Facebook page, 'Out and About in the 'Deen', serves as a platform for his musings and a testament to his enduring love for his hometown.
Gary's mom once described him as someone who would do the right thing, like his dad and their ancestors before him. This sense of duty and integrity is evident in Gary's work, as he continues to chronicle the stories of the working class and the history of Aberdeen.
As Gary looks to the future, he remains committed to his craft, drawing on the influences of Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground to create atmospheric, profound, and innovative works that reflect the legacy of these iconic artists.
[1] https://www.loureed.com/discography/the-velvet-underground/the-velvet-underground-and-nico/ [2] https://www.biography.com/music-artists/lou-reed [3] https://www.britannica.com/art/gothic-rock [4] https://www.britannica.com/art/glam-rock
- Gary's appreciation for Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground extends beyond music, influencing his writing style as well, with a focus on autobiographical stories and atmospheric, profound works.
- Drawing inspiration from his favorite musician's experimental and theatrical qualities, Gary aims to create innovative works reminiscent of gothic rock and glam rock, genres Lou Reed significantly shaped.
- Lou Reed's pioneering music, such as 'The Velvet Underground and Nico' and his solo albums, continues to be a significant source of inspiration for personal growth and lifestyle for Gary.
- As Gary delves deeper into education and self-development, he seeks to understand the art of performance better, inspired by his interaction with Lou Reed and the disciplines of home-and-garden, entertainment, and personal-growth.
