1968 (East Coast w/Air-Brushed Torso) Stereo Original Housed In Gatefold Jacket. The Velvet Underground & Nico is the debut studio album by the American rock band the Velvet Underground and German singer Nico, released in March 1967 by Verve Records. Produced by Andy Warhol and Tom Wilson, the album is noted for its avant-garde sound, blending rock, art, and experimental music. The record includes tracks that highlight themes of urban life, drug use, and unconventional sexuality, showcasing the band's raw and gritty approach to music. Lou Reed's songwriting combined with the experimental use of instruments like John Cale's electric viola contribute to its distinctive sound.

Despite its initial commercial failure, the album has since become highly influential, often cited as one of the greatest and most influential albums in the history of rock music. Songs like "Heroin," "I'm Waiting for the Man," and "Venus in Furs" have been praised for their innovative and boundary-pushing content, both musically and lyrically. The inclusion of Nico's unique vocal contributions on songs such as "Femme Fatale" and "All Tomorrow's Parties" adds to the album's eclectic and groundbreaking nature. The Velvet Underground & Nico remains an enduring classic, representing a significant milestone in the evolution of alternative and experimental rock music.