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In the music history, few songs have left an indelible mark quite like “Lola” by The Kinks. Released in 1970, this iconic track not only showcased The Kinks’ musical prowess but also became a cultural phenomenon, resonating across generations. Delving into its inception, creative process, and enduring influence unveils a captivating narrative that intertwines with the fabric of music, media, and culture.

In 1970, when Ray Davies of The Kinks penned “Lola,” the song subtly referenced a particular brand within its lyrics.

There’s a popular belief that Coca Cola demanded the removal of a specific lyric from The Kinks’ renowned song “Lola,” but this notion is largely unfounded. Most companies would welcome the exposure of being mentioned in a hit song. However, it’s accurate that the song underwent a revision, substituting the Coca Cola reference with “Cherry Cola.” However, this alteration wasn’t a response to pressure from Coca Cola; rather, it was a reaction to the BBC’s stringent policy against product placement and advertising on public broadcasts. The British Broadcasting Corporation’s stance meant that any song featuring a brand name would face immediate censorship. Consequently, the inclusion of Coca Cola in “Lola” posed a barrier to airplay in the UK, prompting The Kinks to take proactive measures to ensure their song could reach audiences without hindrance.

In a day that started with the energetic vibes of a Minnesota concert, Ray Davies found himself caught in a whirlwind of events when news broke about “Lola.” With urgency in his steps, he dashed from the stage to the airport, bound for London where the master tapes awaited. The mission? To tweak a lyric, replacing “Coca Cola” with “Cherry Cola.” Yet, time slipped away, leaving Davies with an incomplete task as he rushed to catch The Kinks’ next gig in Chicago.

But the saga didn’t end there. After the Chicago show, Davies was back at the airport, jet-setting once more to London. The round trip, spanning over 16,000 miles, was a testament to his determination. Finally, after much ado, the elusive perfect take was captured.

The switch from “Coca Cola” to “Cherry Cola” may seem minor, but its impact was monumental. “Lola” soared to global acclaim, granting The Kinks newfound creative control and financial stability. It’s a reminder that even the smallest tweaks can lead to seismic shifts in the music industry.

The Story Behind The Song

“Lola” by The Kinks is a classic rock song with a catchy melody and memorable lyrics. Released in 1970, the song tells the story of a young man who meets a transgender person named Lola in a club in Soho, London. The encounter leads to a night of drinking and dancing, with the narrator feeling both intrigued and confused by Lola’s ambiguous gender identity. Ray Davies, the frontman of The Kinks, penned the song, sparking various theories about the inspiration behind “Lola.” Among these, a prevalent tale suggests that Lola was inspired by an encounter of The Kinks’ manager, Robert Wace, during a lively evening in Paris. The narrative recounts Wace dancing with what he believed was a woman, only to realize later, to his surprise, that the person had facial hair.

Why Must Lola Be Considered the Anthem of Gender Diversity?

At the time of its release in 1970, “Lola” delved into taboo subjects such as gender identity and sexuality, which were not commonly addressed in popular music. Its candid portrayal of a transgender character challenged societal norms and pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable to discuss in mainstream music. Also, he song’s catchy melody and memorable lyrics propelled it to commercial success, reaching high positions on music charts in multiple countries. Its popularity contributed to raising awareness and stimulating conversations about gender identity and sexual diversity.

“Girls will be boys and boys will be girls
It’s a mixed up, muddled up, shook up world, except for Lola”

The Kinks / Lola