The Passenger – Iggy Pop

Believe it or not, I was first introduced to Iggy Pop and this song through the video game “Lego Rock Band”. Somehow, they got the Godfather of Punk, equally well known for his struggles with heroin and cocaine as he is for his intense stage presence, occasionally known to roll around in broken glass on stage or even expose himself to the crowd, to feature as the narrator in a Lego game made for kids. The first time I played the song in the game, I was hooked on it. That being said, I really never explored much more of Mr. Pop’s catalogue, solo or with The Stooges until I got to college. And even then, it took me watching some live performances of Iggy in his prime to really get why he is such a staple in rock music, and of course, punk. His influence on rock as a whole may be overlooked by some, but he is undeniably important. When his personal journals were published in 2002, it was revealed to the world that Kurt Cobain considered Iggy and the Stooges’ Raw Power to be his favorite album of all time. I’m sure I’ll feature some more of their work and Iggy’s solo stuff in the future.

One of my favorite bits of music trivia, known by many fans, is that David Bowie sings backup and plays keys on The Passenger. His unmistakable voice singing “la la la la lalalala” over and over really adds to the almost “pirate-esque” vibe that the song gives off. For me, this song is about going through life, the good and the bad, with a sort of headstrong resiliency. Taking on what the world gives you, whether you like it or not. “So let’s take a ride and see what’s mine” as Iggy vocalizes on the track. Ever since I heard the song in Lego Rock Band, of all places, and even before I considered myself a fan of Iggy, I have always had this particular track in heavy rotation, and it has been an important part of the soundtrack of my life so far.

Link to the song –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-fWw7FE9tTo

Link to a live performance –https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TZth4CNaEBA (Check out the comment section, there are some gems -“I think Iggy Pop is one of the few Artists out there who can make Ozzy Osbourne look sober”)

A quick note – This song always makes me think of one of my heroes, Anthony Bourdain, who would’ve turned 68 this past June 25th. So happy belated birthday to perhaps one of the ultimate “passengers” and cheers Tony, wherever you are.