Lola's Legacy: The Kinks Respond to Moby's Controversy

The Kinks and Moby: A Clash of Perspectives

In a recent interview with The Guardian, Moby claimed that he could no longer listen to the Kinks' iconic song 'Lola' due to its lyrical content, describing it as "gross and transphobic." His comments have sparked a heated exchange, stirring not just musical nostalgia but cultural debate around the interpretation of this classic track.

Dave Davies: “Who the F-ck Is Moby?”

Kinks guitarist Dave Davies didn't hold back when responding to Moby's assertions. In an interview with Rolling Stone, he revealed his irritation at being called out. “I don't like to criticize anybody,” Davies mentioned, though he couldn't mask his disbelief over Moby's comments: “But I didn't particularly like his music. And I don't like him because he's throwing all this shit up about something that shouldn't bother him.”

A Personal Connection to 'Lola'

'Lola', released in 1970, has long been considered a pioneering anthem, challenging notions of gender and identity through its storyline of a young man's encounter with a transgender woman named Lola. Thus, when Moby labeled its lyrics as 'unevolved', Davies felt justified indignation, recalling how groundbreaking the song was during its time.

“Ray, my brother, said to me, 'Who the f-ck is Moby?'” Davies said. His response encapsulates a blend of bemusement and defensiveness about a song that continues to resonate with many.

The Reclaiming of Narrative

Davies went on to explain that he took the time to listen to some of Moby's music to better understand the artist's perspective after the controversy erupted. After diving into tracks like “South Side,” he admitted, “I don't particularly like his music,” reinforcing his position that not every song must bear the weight of social expectations.

Support from Unexpected Allies

Support came in various forms, including a public defense from Soft Cell's Marc Almond, who labeled 'Lola' as “a brilliant, funny, affectionate, sweet, and actually groundbreaking song.” Almond's words highlight how certain songs transcend their initial narratives to become cultural touchstones.

What Lies Ahead for The Kinks?

Despite the uproar, the Kinks seem to be in a positive space. Plans are brewing for Davies to stage a subdued, storytelling-style performance in the fall, reminiscent of MTV Unplugged formats, where he hopes to celebrate music's narratives, both old and new. There might be no grand Kinks reunion on the horizon, but fans can look forward to the art exhibit based on a famous selfie of the Davies brothers, celebrating their shared legacy.

The Cultural Impact of 'Lola'

What this controversy ultimately reveals is the complexity surrounding artistic legacies. As lyrics are scrutinized through contemporary lenses, it raises questions about evolving identities and the continuing relevance of classic songs. The dialogue sparked between Moby and the Kinks may seem trivial to some, yet it reveals much about how we navigate cultural sensitivities today.

Conclusion

The interplay between Moby and The Kinks is just the latest demonstration of how art compels conversation, controversy, and connection. Whether Moby's criticism sticks or Davies's rebuttals resonate depends largely on the next generation of listeners who will ultimately decide the value – or irrelevance – of 'Lola' in today's cultural context.

In the end, as Davies might say, Moby's misinterpretation shouldn't overshadow the groundbreaking nature of their work. The world may keep spinning, but the music, the stories, and the legacies will endure.