Richie Unterberger - Do What You Fear Most: The History of the Velvet Underground
This is a pre-order item and is expected 14th May 2026.
Do What You Fear Most is the definitive account of New York’s punk progenitors, an epic 816-page deep dive into the band that compounded raw rock ’n’ roll, avant-garde experimentation, and literary songwriting to push music into uncharted territory. Drawing on first-hand interviews and newly unearthed material from the Lou Reed and Andy Warhol Archives, author Richie Unterberger covers the recording of their groundbreaking debut album—begun sixty years ago this April—as well as the band’s most significant work and early solo material by Nico and John Cale pre 1971.
With wide-ranging appeal, the book explores the Velvet Underground’s close collaboration with Andy Warhol, the underground art scene, and the cultural ferment of 1960s New York. It also charts how the band launched the careers of Lou Reed, John Cale, and Nico, offering an essential portrait of one of the 20th century’s most influential groups.
Written by acclaimed rock historian Richie Unterberger, author of over a dozen music histories and award-winning liner notes—including the super deluxe edition of The Velvet Underground & Nico—the book blends meticulous research with vivid, entertaining storytelling.
PRODUCT DETAIL
Author: Richie Unterberger
Publisher: Omnibus
Format: Hardback
Released: 14th May 2026
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