Sterling Morrison grew up in Long Island, New York and was the oldest of six children. He briefly attended the University of Illinois and three other colleges. At one of those colleges (Syracuse University) he met Lou Reed, with whom he would go on to form the Velvet Underground. The band lasted for 3 years, and released 5 albums. After the breakup of the Velvet Underground, Morrison returned to school and received a doctorate in medival studies. He played in several bands until his death in 1995.