Iggy Pop: My Top 5 Iggy Pop Albums

Iggy Pop. The Godfather of Punk. A legend. With a career spanning over five decades, Iggy has produced a vast and diverse discography that continues to inspire generations of musicians. From the raw aggression of The Stooges to the introspective crooning of his later work, Iggy has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined what rock and roll can be.

Picking just five albums from such a rich history is no easy feat, but here are my top picks to introduce you to the Iggy Pop experience:

Lust For Life (1977): A landmark collaboration with David Bowie, Lust For Life is a perfect blend of Iggy’s primal energy and Bowie’s sonic experimentation. Tracks like the iconic title track and “The Passenger” are anthems that transcend genre, showcasing Iggy’s ability to write relatable lyrics about alienation and the human condition.

The Idiot (1977): Released just a few months before Lust For Life, The Idiot is a darker, more industrial affair. Heavily influenced by Bowie, the album delves into themes of isolation and paranoia. Songs like “Nightclubbing” and “China Girl” are raw and unsettling, but undeniably catchy.

Raw Power (1973) by The Stooges: The quintessential Iggy Pop album. Raw Power is a sonic assault, a blistering display of Iggy’s untamed energy and The Stooges’ proto-punk fury. Tracks like “I Wanna Be Your Dog” and “Search and Destroy” are punk rock at its finest, laying the groundwork for the genre that would explode a few years later.

Fun House (1970) by The Stooges: This wouldn’t be a true Iggy Pop list without Fun House. A groundbreaking album that helped lay the foundation for punk rock, Fun House is a wild ride of distorted guitars, pounding drums, and Iggy’s unhinged vocals. Tracks like “Down on the Street” and “TV Eye” are proto-punk anthems, while the title track showcases the band’s experimental side.

Post Pop Depression (2016): A late-career masterpiece, Post Pop Depression sees Iggy reunite with Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age. The album is a dark and brooding affair, reflecting on mortality and the fleeting nature of fame. Tracks like the title track and “American Valhalla” are powerful and introspective, showcasing a new side of Iggy’s artistry.

This is just a taste of what Iggy Pop has to offer. With so many incredible albums to choose from, there’s something for everyone in his vast catalogue. So crank up the volume and dive into the world of the Iggy Pop, you won’t regret it.