Iggy Pop is considered by many to be a massively influential figure in the bygone era of rock music. He was as close to the top as you can get. But that didn’t hold him back from covering a few of the best songs from his contemporaries… and his versions almost rival the original tracks. Let’s take a look at four of Iggy Pop’s very best cover songs!
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1. “I Can’t Explain” by The Who
This classic from The Who was originally released in 1965, and Iggy Pop’s 2014 version has all the beauty of the original with Pop’s unique flair added into the mix. The chorus on Pop’s version has a bit more melody to it, lending a modern take that isn’t too overproduced. Honestly, the whole of Gimme Some Skin from 2014 is essential listening.
2. “Louie Louie” by Richard Berry
“Louie Louie” is one of Iggy Pop’s most on-the-nose cover songs of all time, and it makes sense why. Pop has been attributed to proto-punk in many ways, and the same could be said of Richard Berry. Pop’s version of the 1950s hit “Louie Louie” turns the source material into something suitable for the modern age, complete with a grimy guitar solo that just hits.
3. “White Christmas” by Bing Crosby
Well, this is a bit surprising. Iggy Pop covering a Christmas classic from the 1940s wasn’t exactly what anyone was expecting. Still, it’s a killer cover nonetheless. Pop’s take is a bit more easygoing, slightly uneven piece of work that contrasts quite well with the glittering, soothing original holiday track. The choir at the end of the song is comforting, and Pop’s deep voice is at its best on this cover.
4. “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks
A standout on California Hitch-Hike, Iggy Pop’s rendition of “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks is one of his finest cover songs. It’s got the proto-punk vibe Iggy Pop and The Kinks are both known for. However, Pop’s version has a little bit of a rougher cut to it.
Pop’s version is faster, has more energy, and features a few helping hands that make the song a true punk rock jam. The Patti Smith Group’s own Ivan Kral is on the guitar, Sex Pistols’ Glen Matlock pounds at the bass, and The Damned’s Brian James is on the guitar as well. It’s like a supergroup you’d experience in a dream.
Photo by CARL DE SOUZA/AFP via Getty Images
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