The Kinks, a legendary British rock band from the 1960s and 1970s, earned fame for their sharp, socially conscious lyrics and unforgettable melodies. Among their most iconic tracks is “Lola,” a song released in 1970 that humorously narrates a young man’s romantic encounter with a transgender woman. Over a decade later, the band revisited this character and storyline with the 1981 track “Destroyer,” one of rock music’s rare sequels.
How ‘Lola’ Was Born
“Lola,” penned by Ray Davies, was written during a period when the band began exploring edgier, more personal stories. The song follows a naïve protagonist who meets an intriguing woman named Lola, only to realize later that things aren’t quite what they seem. With its catchy refrain and cleverly ambiguous lyrics, the track became a commercial success, climbing to No. 2 on the UK charts and reaching the US top 10.
The song drew inspiration from an actual experience involving the band’s manager, according to Davies. This real-life connection gave “Lola” an authenticity that struck a chord with listeners, even as it addressed themes that were unconventional for its time.
The Return of Lola in ‘Destroyer’
In 1981, The Kinks released “Destroyer” as part of their album Give the People What They Want. While “Lola” had a playful, upbeat tone, “Destroyer” leaned into darker themes. The song brought back the character of Lola, placing her in a narrative filled with paranoia and self-destruction.
Combining the guitar riff from their earlier track “All Day and All of the Night” with callbacks to “Lola,” the song explores the protagonist’s mental and emotional turmoil. Unlike the lighthearted confusion of “Lola,” “Destroyer” delves deeper into instability and chaotic relationships. This sequel showcases Ray Davies’ ability to expand on earlier ideas while adding new layers of complexity.
A Lasting Legacy
“Lola” continues to be one of The Kinks’ most celebrated tracks, renowned for its daring subject matter and infectious sound. While “Destroyer” didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success, it is recognized for its creative storytelling and connection to the band’s past work. Together, the two tracks reveal The Kinks’ talent for crafting narratives that evolve and adapt over time.
By creating these linked songs, The Kinks solidified their reputation as innovative storytellers, demonstrating that music can revisit characters and ideas to explore fresh perspectives. “Lola” and “Destroyer” remain a testament to their enduring artistry and boldness.
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