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The Stooges

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Band Timeline

1967

Formation of The Stooges

The Stooges were formed in Ann Arbor, Michigan, in 1967 by singer Iggy Pop (James Newell Osterberg) along with guitarist Ron Asheton, drummer Scott Asheton, and bassist Dave Alexander. Influenced by garage rock and seeking to innovate blues music, they began playing a raw, primitive style of rock. Iggy Pop adopted his stage name during this time, inspired by a local character, and the band soon became known for their energetic yet confrontational performances.
1969

Release of Debut Album 'The Stooges'

In 1969, The Stooges released their self-titled debut album 'The Stooges' under Elektra Records. Though the album did not initially sell well, it captured the band’s raw, primal energy and established their proto-punk sound. The record gained a cult following despite commercial failure and was notable for Iggy Pop’s wild stage presence and the band’s primitive and aggressive musical style, laying groundwork for future punk rock.
1970

Release of 'Fun House' and Early Challenges

The Stooges released their second album 'Fun House' in 1970, featuring saxophonist Steve Mackay. This album further pushed their experimental and raw sound but still met with limited commercial success. Despite enthusiastic live performances, struggles with substance abuse and internal conflicts began to affect the band's cohesion. 'Fun House' became critically acclaimed later but at the time failed to significantly expand their audience.
1973

Release of 'Raw Power' and Lineup Changes

After briefly disbanding and reforming with Ron Asheton moving to bass and James Williamson joining on guitar, The Stooges released their third album 'Raw Power' in 1973. The album, produced by David Bowie, showcased a harder, more aggressive sound that influenced future punk and alternative rock artists. However, the band struggled with management and internal tensions, leading to limited commercial success and their ultimate breakup in 1974.
1974

Initial Breakup of The Stooges

Following the release of 'Raw Power', The Stooges disbanded in 1974 amid internal turmoil and lack of commercial success. The band members pursued solo projects and other musical endeavors during this time. Though the Stooges had limited mainstream impact during their initial run, their pioneering sound and Iggy Pop's dynamic stage identity had a lasting influence on the development of punk rock and alternative music scenes.
2003

Reunion and Return to Touring

The Stooges reunited in 2003 with founding members Iggy Pop, Ron Asheton, and Scott Asheton, alongside new bassist Mike Watt and returning saxophonist Steve Mackay. The reunion sparked renewed interest in the band’s music and legacy. They performed numerous live shows, balancing their influential past with a contemporary presence, and continued to build their reputation as a foundational act in punk and rock history.
2009

Death of Ron Asheton and Replacement by James Williamson

In 2009, Ron Asheton, the original guitarist and a key figure in the band's sound, passed away. James Williamson rejoined the band to fill Asheton's role on guitar. The band continued to perform live, honoring their legacy while evolving their lineup. This marked an important moment as the band navigated the loss of one original member while maintaining the spirit of The Stooges.
2010

Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame

The Stooges were officially inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010, recognizing their significant influence on rock music and particularly the punk genre. This honor cemented their legacy as pioneers and innovators. The induction celebrated their contribution to music history despite their modest commercial success during their early years, highlighting their enduring impact on generations of musicians.
2013

Release of 'Ready to Die' and Continued Performances

In 2013, The Stooges released 'Ready to Die,' their first album of new material in decades. The album featured the lineup including Iggy Pop and James Williamson and displayed their continued vitality and relevance in rock music. They toured to support the release, demonstrating their ability to blend their early raw style with mature punk rock elements, further solidifying their legacy in contemporary music.
2016

Final Breakup of The Stooges

The Stooges formally announced their breakup in 2016 following the deaths of drummer Scott Asheton and saxophonist Steve Mackay. The loss of these founding and long-time members led to the decision to end the band. Their career spanned nearly five decades with influential contributions to punk rock and alternative music, leaving a lasting cultural and musical legacy appreciated worldwide.

Albums

the-stooges_1st_album
The Stooges
8 tracks
1969
the-stooges_2nd_album
Fun House
7 tracks
1970
the-stooges_3rd_album
The Weirdness
12 tracks
2007
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Ron Asheton

N/A

James Williamson

N/A

Mike Watt

N/A

Dave Alexander

N/A

Scott Asheton

N/A

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Iggy Pop

1967
1970

Story of The Stooges

The Stooges: Pioneers of Primal Punk

Born in the psychedelic haze of 1967 Ann Arbor, Michigan, The Stooges (originally known as the Psychedelic Stooges) were a raw force of nature. Led by the charismatic and volatile Iggy Pop, alongside the stoic guitar riffs of Ron Asheton, the thunderous drumming of Scott Asheton, and the steady bass lines of Dave Alexander, they carved their own path in the rock landscape.

Their music was a raw, primal cocktail of rock and roll, devoid of the polish and pretention of their contemporaries. Their live performances were legendary, often fueled by Iggy's self-destructive stage antics, which included self-mutilation and wild abandon, pushing the boundaries of what a rock show could be.

After two critically acclaimed albums, "The Stooges" (1969) and "Fun House" (1970), the band fractured. They regrouped with a revamped lineup, featuring Ron Asheton on bass, James Williamson on guitar, and released their third masterpiece, "Raw Power" (1973). This powerful album cemented their status as pioneers of punk rock, influencing countless artists who followed.

After a final break-up in 1974, The Stooges rose again in 2003. With Ron Asheton returning to guitar, Mike Watt on bass, and the addition of saxophonist Steve Mackay, they once again stormed the stage, proving that their raw energy hadn't diminished with time.

Sadly, the loss of Ron Asheton (2009) and later Scott Asheton and Steve Mackay led to their final farewell in 2016. Despite their brief hiatus, The Stooges left an indelible mark on rock history. Their influence on generations of punk and alternative artists is undeniable, and their legacy continues to inspire musicians worldwide.

They are rightfully considered one of the most influential and important proto-punk bands of all time. Their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2010 and recognition by Rolling Stone as one of the 100 greatest artists of all time are testaments to their enduring impact on music history.

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