On Repeat

Author and respected music critic Anthony DeCurtis began contributing to Rolling Stone in Atlanta nearly 40 years ago. Now, he returns for a different role—performing “An Evening of Lou Reed” with the Andy Browne Troupe.

- Colleen Ann Mcnally

When local musician Andy Browne saw a video on Facebook of Anthony DeCurtis singing a Lou Reed song, it sparked an idea. He offered DeCurtis an irresistible invite back to his old stomping grounds for two shows only—a tribute to the late rock icon.

AN UNLIKELY PAIR

As veterans of Atlanta’s music scene, the two Reed fans ran in similar circles in the 1970s, when Browne was playing in a band called The Nightporters and DeCurtis was cutting his teeth as a journalist. They later reconnected through Facebook. Then, following the release of DeCurtis’ latest book release, “Lou Reed: A Life,” Browne invited the long-time critic to experience how it feels behind the microphone, with backup from the Andy Browne Troupe. “It’s pretty unlikely, not because of Andy Browne, but the idea of me performing these songs,” DeCurtis said. “It’s been a kind of funny thing that’s developed as a result of my promoting [‘Lou Reed: A Life’] that came out in October.” Browne said he was thrilled when DeCurtis accepted the offer to sing for this rare performance. “I have been reading Anthony’s Interview in