The Original Wrapper

"The Original Wrapper" (sometimes written as "The Original Rapper") is a song written by Lou Reed, released as a single in 1986 and originally featured on Mistrial. The title refers to the practice of keeping products in their original packaging. It can also be interpreted as a pun on "rapper," referring to Reed's distinctive vocal style.^[1]

Track listing

LP 12"

1. "The Original Wrapper" - Extended Version
2. "The Original Wrapper" - Remix Single Version
3. "The Original Wrapper" - Dub Version
4. "Video Violence" - Remix Version

Music video

The 1986 music video (directed by Zbigniew Rybczyński)^[2] features time-lapse photography of New Yorkers on the street. A trio of men in yellow hazmat suits attempt to package people in "original wrappers" of cardboard. Shots of Lou are interspersed, wearing a fedora and an overabundance of glitter (most likely a reference to Michael Jackson). Rollerskaters and fireworks are mixed within scenes of the hazmat men capturing men and women. They attempt to capture a Dachshund, but it escapes its box. It was nominated for Best Editing at the 1987 MTV Video Music Awards.^[3]

See also

• "Funky Man"

Notes