The Time Iggy Pop Was Asked To Join AC/DC

YouTube via @IggyPopOfficial
Iggy Pop has always been a force to be reckoned with in rock music, known for his unpredictable nature and raw energy. From his early days with The Stooges to his solo career, he’s left an indelible mark on the genre.
His journey has been filled with legendary encounters, including collaborations with David Bowie and wild times with Dennis Hopper. Iggy’s life reads like a rock ‘n’ roll adventure, packed with stories that embody the chaotic spirit of the era.
One standout story is the surprising moment when he was asked to join AC/DC, the ultimate high-energy rock band.
Iggy Pop’s Surprising AC/DC Offer
AC/DC is famous for their hard-hitting tracks like “TNT,” “Whole Lotta Rosie,” and “Highway to Hell.” The band’s history is marked by two distinct vocal eras, first with Bon Scott and later with Brian Johnson, who took over after Scott’s passing in 1980.
Brian Johnson’s era brought unforgettable hits like “Back in Black” and “Thunderstruck,” solidifying AC/DC’s legacy. However, before this lineup was finalized, there was an interesting twist in their story.
In a 2023 interview, Iggy Pop shared that AC/DC’s manager once approached him about joining the band before he decided to reform The Stooges.
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Iggy’s Brief Encounter with Bon Scott
Iggy Pop didn’t go into great detail about the conversation, but just imagining him fronting AC/DC is captivating. The idea of Iggy sharing the stage with Angus Young is something rock fans can only dream about.
Iggy also recalled a hazy memory involving Bon Scott, the original AC/DC frontman. He humorously mentioned how they were both drunk and stoned, and seeing photos of the encounter surprises him even now.
He revealed that before reforming The Stooges, AC/DC’s manager once asked if he’d be interested in joining the band as their new singer.
Why Iggy Pop Turned Down AC/DC
When asked if he seriously considered joining AC/DC, Iggy Pop gave a straightforward answer. Despite the tempting offer, he knew it wasn’t the right move.
Iggy explained that he listened to their music and quickly realized he couldn’t be the singer they needed. It wasn’t about disliking the band—he actually admired their craftsmanship.
He acknowledged that AC/DC paid close attention to detail, but he felt his style didn’t match what they were looking for in a frontman.