Lou Reed Dead at 71

Credit: Associated Press

Velvet Underground leader Lou Reed has passed away at the age of 71.

Reed died in his home this morning after doctors were unable to treat his end-stage liver disease. He underwent a liver transplant in May to deal with the disease and was in the ER in June for complications following the surgery.

"He was as great an artist as it’s possible to be, in my opinion," said his literary agent Andrew Wylie of the late musician.

Added his doctor Charles Miller who gave him the transplant, "He died peacefully, with his loved ones around him ... We did everything we could. He really wanted to be at home."

In addition to his work with the Underground, Reed also had a very successful solo career.

He is survived by his wife Laurie Anderson and will be greatly missed.