A recent debate in the music world has brought attention back to a classic song: Lola by The Kinks. What started as a simple opinion has turned into a bigger conversation about how music is understood today compared to the past.
What Started the Debate?
The discussion began when Moby said in an interview that he could no longer enjoy Lola. He felt that some of the lyrics sounded “gross and transphobic.” In particular, he pointed to a line describing Lola as someone who “walks like a woman but talks like a man.”
From Moby’s point of view, the lyrics feel outdated in today’s world, where people are more aware and respectful of gender identity.
How Did Ray Davies Respond?
The song’s writer, Ray Davies, quickly responded. He defended the song and said that it was never meant to offend anyone. Instead, he explained that the song came from real-life experiences and was written with curiosity and admiration, not hate.
Davies also shared that during their tours, they were surrounded by diverse and expressive communities, including groups like The Cockettes. According to him, the band always appreciated and respected such people.
The Story Behind “Lola”
When Lola was released in 1970, it was actually very bold for its time. The song tells the story of a romantic encounter with someone whose gender identity surprises the narrator. Back then, topics like this were rarely discussed openly in mainstream music.
In fact, the song was so controversial that some radio stations avoided playing certain parts of it. Even so, it became one of The Kinks’ most famous hits.
Over the years, Ray Davies has explained that the song was inspired by real-life moments, including an experience in a club. He also said the song was part of a larger idea—celebrating freedom and the right for people to be themselves.
A Different Perspective
Interestingly, not everyone sees the song as offensive. Mara Keisling, a transgender rights activist, once shared that Lola meant a lot to her growing up. Hearing the song made her feel less alone at a time when she struggled with her identity.
For her, the song was not harmful—it was comforting and meaningful.
What This Debate Shows
This situation highlights how meaning can change over time. A song that once felt groundbreaking can later be seen differently as society grows and changes.
On one side, people like Moby believe it’s important to question older works. On the other side, creators like Ray Davies feel their work should be understood in the context in which it was made.
Final Thoughts
The debate over Lola is not just about one song. It’s about how we look at art from the past. Should we judge it by today’s standards, or try to understand it in its original time?
There is no simple answer. But conversations like this help us think more deeply about music, culture, and how both continue to evolve.