Iggy Pop, born James Newell Osterberg Jr. in 1947, is an influential American singer, songwriter, and actor, often recognized as "the Godfather of Punk." He rose to prominence in the late 1960s as the dynamic frontman of the proto-punk band The Stooges, known for their raucous performances and raw, aggressive sound. Pop's distinctively raspy voice and wild stage antics have left a significant impact on punk and alternative rock. His most famous tracks include "Lust for Life," "The Passenger," and "Real Wild Child," and his collaboration with David Bowie in the 1970s is considered pivotal in his career.