Iggy Pop
James Newell Osterberg Jr., widely known as Iggy Pop, is an American singer, musician, songwriter, and actor. Often referred to as "the Godfather of Punk," he is revered as a pioneer in punk rock and related musical styles.
Career overview
Early career and The Stooges: Iggy Pop rose to prominence in the late 1960s as the frontman of The Stooges, a proto-punk band known for their raw, primitive sound and Iggy's wild, confrontational stage performances. He became infamous for antics like stage diving, self-mutilation, and smearing his chest with food. The Stooges released two studio albums, The Stooges (1969) and Fun House (1970), before disbanding in 1974. The band later reunited in the 2000s.
Solo career: Following The Stooges' initial breakup, Iggy Pop embarked on a solo career that saw him explore a more diverse range of styles, from hard rock to jazz and electronic music. He collaborated with influential artists like David Bowie, who produced his critically acclaimed solo albums, The Idiot and Lust for Life (both 1977). His solo work also produced hits like "Lust for Life", "The Passenger" and "Real Wild Child (Wild One)", as well as the Top 40 duet "Candy" with The B-52s' Kate Pierson.
Later years: Iggy Pop has continued to release music and tour throughout the decades, collaborating with various artists like Josh Homme (Queens of the Stone Age), Underworld, and Green Day. He has also ventured into acting, appearing in films like Cry-Baby and Dead Man, and television shows like The Adventures of Pete & Pete.
Influence and legacy
Iggy Pop's raw energy and willingness to push boundaries have left an undeniable mark on music history. He is widely credited with pioneering punk rock, and his influence can be heard in a multitude of bands and artists across genres. Many bands, including the Sex Pistols, The Smiths, and Nirvana, have cited The Stooges as a major influence. His solo album The Idiot is also considered a significant influence on post-punk, electronic, and industrial music, inspiring artists like Depeche Mode, Nine Inch Nails, and Joy Division.
In addition to his musical contributions, Iggy Pop has earned recognition for his vibrant persona and cultural impact, remaining a relevant figure in the music industry for decades.