John Cale

John Cale (born March 9, 1942) is a Welsh musician, composer, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known as a founding member of the experimental rock band The Velvet Underground, alongside Lou Reed.

Cale's musical style is characterized by its avant-garde experimentation, incorporating elements of classical music, drone, noise, and rock. He often employs the viola, keyboard instruments, and his distinctive vocal style.

Following his departure from The Velvet Underground in 1968, Cale embarked on a prolific solo career, releasing numerous albums showcasing his diverse musical interests. These albums range from experimental rock and art pop to more accessible song-based material. Notable solo albums include Vintage Violence (1970), Paris 1919 (1973), Fear (1974), and Music for a New Society (1982).

In addition to his solo work, Cale has collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Brian Eno, Patti Smith, Iggy Pop, and Siouxsie and the Banshees. He has also worked extensively as a record producer, producing albums for artists such as The Stooges, Patti Smith, Jonathan Richman, and Happy Mondays.

Cale's contributions to music have been widely recognized, and he is considered a highly influential figure in experimental rock, art rock, and alternative music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Velvet Underground in 1996. He continues to record and perform, pushing the boundaries of musical expression.