The Stooges

The Stooges

The Stooges, also known as Iggy and the Stooges, are an American rock group from Ann Arbor, United States, formed in 1967. Their music is associated with garage rock, garage punk, hard rock and proto-punk. They are one of the key influences on punk rock and early heavy metal, despite achieving little chart or radio success in their original run.

History and line-ups

The group’s best-known line-up includes Iggy Pop on vocals, Ron Asheton on guitar, Dave Alexander on bass and Scott Asheton on drums. Iggy Pop’s stage presence and wild onstage behaviour often draw attention, while the band develops a shambling, energetic sound that deliberately recalls earlier garage rock groups. The Stooges release three studio albums before breaking up in 1974.

John Cale of the Velvet Underground produces the band’s original self-titled album, released in 1969. That record later receives critical acclaim and becomes one of their most discussed releases. The band’s early sound also draws on artists such as The Doors, The MC5, The Kinks, The Rolling Stones, The Troggs and The Who, as well as jazz and soul artists including Booker T and the MGs, James Brown and Miles Davis, particularly Bitches Brew.

Later activity and recognition

The Stooges reunite in 2003 with Iggy, Scott and Ron Asheton joined by Mike Watt, who plays bass in place of Dave Alexander. This line-up plays festivals around the world and records a new album with Steve Albini in 2006. The band releases two further records in 2007 and 2013. They are inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010.

Ron Asheton dies in Ann Arbor in 2009. In 2016, James Williamson states that the Stooges are no more, ending the group’s later incarnation. Their influence continues to be noted through acts such as the Ramones, and they remain widely regarded as a major force in punk rock and the development of heavy metal.