The guy had a big influence on my musical interests like many others. I remember first hearing the VU&Nico album in 8th grade, my first "weird" album after purchasing and binge listening to a glut of Pink Floyd/Queen/Rush albums. I was amazed at the juxtaposition of tracks like Sunday Morning, Venus In Furs, Heroin, etc. The way the album jumps from sweet and sincere pop numbers, to rock and roll, to droning free form fuckall, the sloppy but effective production, I could go on and on about it. Not to dismiss his solo records though, which are a really fun and bumpy ride all the way through. My favorite album of his, I would say is probably Magic And Loss. The album is a tribute to a recently (at that time) deceased friend of Lou's, exploring the themes/stages/memories of one's life after losing a loved one in a very mature manner.
Thank you for the music Mr. Reed. RIP.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWnjzUPI_Z4