Top 10 Iggy Pop Songs

With an unforgettable lyrical theme and references to both Dracula and heavy trips, “Funtime” became a classic cover song of the '80s. Iggy Pop teamed up with David Bowie to write this surreal hit, which was based on the German music scene of the 1970s that intrigued both singers. The gothic recording propelled David Bowie into his “Berlin” phase, while reinventing the persona of Mr. Iggy. Pop declared his love for a pair of pants and welcomed listeners to embrace a new sound.

American night clubbers went crazy every time this jam was played in the early '80s, although it would be near impossible to resist this post-punk track. The “Bang Bang” music video featured innovative dance numbers by Iggy Pop, and his funky style that undoubtedly influenced Anthony Kiedis of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. The trance-like production set the mood for legendary nights and the “bang bang” chorus had people chanting from dance floors everywhere.

This ode to an unknown dame would later become a smash hit for David Bowie, but first appeared on the Iggy Pop album The Idiot. Lyrically, “China Girl” addresses racism and one man’s search for his precious love, while also referencing himself as Jimmy. While some listeners often contemplate the symbolism, others simply hum along because they’re not sure what’s being said. Off his debut solo album, this track only strengthened Iggy’s presence as a lone wolf in the music industry.

This innocent duet helped Iggy Pop crack the Billboard 100 for the first time and featured the angelic voice of the B-52’s Kate Pierson. As an ode to a former love, the lyrics express one’s man fascination with a girl from the north and the free love she provided. On the flipside, Pierson’s vocals describe a confused woman satisfied but also in mourning of her lover’s departure. “Candy” remains one of the best rock duets of all-time and introduced Mr. Pop to a larger audience.

The original 1958 version of this song ushered in Australia’s Rock N’ Roll scene and almost 30 years later a musical Stooge freshened it up. As part of one of Iggy Pop’s most successful albums Blah-Blah-Blah, “Real Wild Child” appeared in numerous films such as “Adventures in Babysitting”, “Crocodile Dundee II” and even BOTH “Problem Child” films. The lyrics reference dancing like a fool, something many people do while listening to this classic tune.

Did somebody say synthesizer? David Bowie co-wrote and performed on this Iggy Pop classic, which highlighted the joys of nighttime excursions and people watching. Trent Reznor of Nine Inch Nails later sampled the bass drum beat for his iconic hit “Closer,” and “Nightclubbing” was featured on the 1996 Danny Boyle film “Trainspotting.” The lyrics are brief, however the overall style boasts a true punk attitude with a quietly beating drum and a creeping piano. Sing it, Iggy.

After witnessing a legendary drunk performance by Jim Morrison in his native Michigan, Iggy Pop formed his own band called The Stooges and innovated the proto-punk genre. Produced by John Cale of The Velvet Underground, “I Wanna Be Your Dog” kicks ass with heavy distortion and raw vocals. Its lyrics are sexual in nature, with Iggy singing about how he wants to be used by a woman. This rock classic has been covered by Nirvana and the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and is simply a head-thrasher all the way through.

This musical monstrosity from The Stooges’s third album has been featured in movies like “Almost Famous and hit TV shows like ABC’s “Lost”. Based on the Vietnam War, “Search and Destroy” features heavy riffs and wailing Iggy Pop vocals. With a contagious energy and soul-piercing lyrics, this proto-punk anthem raged through the speakers of garage bands worldwide and further established Iggy Pop as one of rock music’s most enthralling personalities. It’s three and half minutes of garage rock funk that helped aspiring rockers land groupies for several decades.

Lust For Life (1977)
Truly an outcast anthem, this lyrical gem appeared on Iggy Pop’s second solo album and instantly connected with listeners. David Bowie provided backing vocals, as Iggy slayed with lyrics about a man embarking on an eternal ride. “The Passenger” was written during the singer’s stay in Berlin and evolved from a reading of Jim Morrison’s self-published poems. While the legendary lizard king failed to live through the '70s, Iggy Pop trail blazed his way through rock music like a boss.

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Little Know It All”
Skull Ring (2003)

“Cry For Love”
Blah-Blah-Blah (1986)

"La Javanaise”
Après (2012)

“No Fun”
The Stooges (1969)

“Gimme Danger”
Raw Power (1973)