The Stooges

Frequently Asked Questions

Who was the lead singer of the Stooges?

The lead singer of The Stooges was Iggy Pop. Born James Newell Osterberg Jr., Iggy Pop became the iconic frontman of the band from its formation in 1967. His wild stage antics, uninhibited performances, and raw vocal style helped define The Stooges' signature sound and image. Iggy Pop's charismatic presence and rebellious attitude played a pivotal role in shaping the band's identity and their influence on rock music. Often referred to as the "Godfather of Punk," Iggy Pop's energy and unpredictability on stage set new standards for live rock shows and inspired countless artists in the punk and alternative scenes. The Stooges, with Iggy Pop at the helm, are widely credited with pioneering a raw, aggressive approach to rock that laid the groundwork for the emergence of punk music in the 1970s and beyond. Today, Iggy Pop remains a celebrated figure in music, renowned for his work with The Stooges as well as his successful solo career.

Did David Bowie like the Stooges?

Yes, David Bowie was a significant fan and supporter of The Stooges. Bowie's admiration for the band, particularly their lead singer Iggy Pop, is well-documented. During the early 1970s, David Bowie played a crucial role in reviving The Stooges' career. After the band initially disbanded, Bowie helped Iggy Pop secure a new record deal and even produced The Stooges' third album, "Raw Power," in 1973. Bowie's involvement not only lent credibility to The Stooges but also helped shape their sound, mixing the album and influencing its final release. Bowie and Iggy Pop developed a close friendship and creative partnership that extended beyond The Stooges, with Bowie later producing and co-writing on some of Iggy's solo albums such as "The Idiot" and "Lust for Life." Bowie's support was instrumental in bringing The Stooges to a wider audience, cementing their lasting legacy in rock and punk history.

Were the Stooges the first punk band?

The Stooges are widely regarded as one of the first punk bands, but whether they were the absolute first is a subject of debate among music historians. Formed in 1967, The Stooges pioneered a raw, aggressive sound characterized by distorted guitars, primal rhythms, and rebellious lyrics

How many albums did the Stooges make?

The Stooges released a total of five studio albums throughout their career. Their discography begins with the self-titled debut, "The Stooges" (1969), followed by "Fun House" (1970) and "Raw Power" (1973), which are considered essential proto-punk records. After disbanding in the mid-1970s, The Stooges reunited in the 2000s, releasing "The Weirdness" (2007) and "Ready to Die" (2013). Each album captures the band's evolution from raw, primal rock to a more developed yet still aggressive sound. Their early albums, especially "Raw Power," are hailed as groundbreaking works that shaped the punk and alternative genres. The later albums showcased the band's enduring influence and ability to evolve while retaining their signature edge. Fans and critics alike recognize The Stooges' five albums for their lasting impact on rock music, making them essential listening for anyone interested in the history and development of punk rock.

Who are all the Three Stooges?

The "Three Stooges" refers to a separate, legendary comedy act unrelated to the rock band The Stooges. The original Three Stooges were Moe Howard, Larry Fine, and Curly Howard. They gained fame for their slapstick comedy shorts and movies from the 1930s through the 1950s. Over the years, the lineup occasionally changed, with Shemp Howard (Moe's brother), Joe Besser, and Joe DeRita also serving as Stooges during different periods. The Three Stooges are celebrated for their physical comedy, hilarious antics, and timeless appeal, making them icons of American entertainment. It's important not to confuse the comedy trio with The Stooges, the influential rock band fronted by Iggy Pop. While both share the "Stooges" name, they are entirely distinct entities