The Stooges
Introduction
The Stooges, also known as Iggy and the Stooges, were an American rock band formed in Ann Arbor, Michigan in 1967. The band is widely considered one of the most important and influential groups in the development of punk rock, garage rock, and alternative rock. The original lineup consisted of vocalist Iggy Pop, guitarist Ron Asheton, drummer Scott Asheton, and bassist Dave Alexander. Known for their raw energy, confrontational performances, and minimalist musical style, The Stooges left an indelible mark on the music industry despite their initial lack of commercial success.
Formation and Early Years (1967-1969)
The Stooges were formed in 1967 by Iggy Pop (born James Newell Osterberg Jr.), who had previously been a drummer in several local bands. Inspired by the raw and primitive sound of The Sonics and the theatricality of The Doors, Iggy sought to create a band that would push the boundaries of rock music. He recruited Ron Asheton on guitar, Scott Asheton on drums, and Dave Alexander on bass, and the band quickly developed a reputation for their chaotic and unpredictable live performances.
The band's early sound was characterized by a minimalist approach, with simple, repetitive riffs and a heavy emphasis on rhythm. Their performances often included elements of performance art, with Iggy engaging in self-mutilation, stage diving, and other provocative acts. This confrontational style set them apart from their contemporaries and laid the groundwork for the punk rock movement that would emerge in the following decade.
Debut Album and Initial Struggles (1969-1970)
In 1969, The Stooges signed with Elektra Records and released their self-titled debut album, produced by John Cale of The Velvet Underground. The album featured tracks such as "I Wanna Be Your Dog" and "1969," which showcased the band's raw and aggressive sound. Despite critical acclaim, the album was a commercial failure, selling poorly and receiving little radio airplay.
The band's lack of commercial success led to tensions within the group, and their chaotic lifestyle began to take its toll. Dave Alexander was fired from the band in 1970 due to his struggles with alcoholism, and he was replaced by various bassists, including Zeke Zettner and James Recca. Despite these challenges, The Stooges continued to perform and develop their sound.
"Fun House" and Further Decline (1970-1971)
In 1970, The Stooges released their second album, "Fun House," produced by Don Gallucci. The album is often regarded as a masterpiece of proto-punk, featuring tracks such as "Down on the Street," "Loose," and "1970." "Fun House" showcased the band's evolution, with a more refined yet still aggressive sound that incorporated elements of free jazz and improvisation.
Despite its critical acclaim, "Fun House" was another commercial failure, and the band's fortunes continued to decline. Their live performances became increasingly erratic, and Iggy's drug addiction began to spiral out of control. By 1971, The Stooges had effectively disbanded, with the members pursuing various side projects and struggling with personal issues.
Reformation and "Raw Power" (1972-1974)
In 1972, Iggy Pop was introduced to David Bowie, who was a fan of The Stooges and offered to help revitalize their career. With Bowie's encouragement, Iggy reformed the band with a new lineup, including guitarist James Williamson and the Asheton brothers, with Ron Asheton switching to bass. The reformed band, now known as Iggy and the Stooges, began recording their third album, "Raw Power."
Released in 1973 and produced by Bowie, "Raw Power" is considered one of the most influential albums in the history of rock music. Tracks such as "Search and Destroy," "Gimme Danger," and the title track exemplified the band's raw energy and aggressive sound. Despite its later recognition as a seminal work, "Raw Power" was initially met with mixed reviews and poor sales.
The band's live performances during this period were notorious for their intensity and unpredictability, with Iggy's stage antics reaching new heights. However, internal tensions and Iggy's worsening drug addiction led to the band's second breakup in 1974.
Legacy and Influence
Despite their lack of commercial success during their initial run, The Stooges' influence on the music industry is immeasurable. They are often credited with laying the groundwork for the punk rock movement of the late 1970s, influencing bands such as The Ramones, Sex Pistols, and The Clash. Their raw, minimalist sound and confrontational performance style have also been cited as a major influence on the development of alternative rock and grunge.
The band's music has been reissued and rediscovered by new generations of fans, and their albums are now regarded as classics of the genre. In 2010, The Stooges were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their legacy as one of the most important and influential bands in the history of rock music.
Reunion and Later Years (2003-Present)
In 2003, The Stooges reunited for a series of live performances, with the lineup featuring Iggy Pop, Ron Asheton, Scott Asheton, and new bassist Mike Watt. The reunion was met with enthusiasm from fans and critics alike, and the band continued to tour and record new material.
In 2007, The Stooges released "The Weirdness," their first album of new material in over three decades. While the album received mixed reviews, it demonstrated the band's continued relevance and ability to evolve their sound. Tragically, Ron Asheton passed away in 2009, and the band continued with James Williamson returning on guitar.
The Stooges released another album, "Ready to Die," in 2013, which was well-received by critics and fans. The band continued to tour and perform until the death of Scott Asheton in 2014, after which Iggy Pop announced that The Stooges had effectively disbanded.