Iggy Pop Alexandra Palace

At 78, Iggy Pop remains a force of nature, defying age and expectations with a performance that was both electrifying and deeply moving. On May 28, 2025, Alexandra Palace transformed into a cauldron of raw energy as the Godfather of Punk delivered a set that was as much a celebration of his legacy as it was a testament to his undying spirit.

Emerging from a stage coffin to the sound of barking dogs, Iggy immediately set the tone for an evening that was anything but ordinary. Despite the physical constraints imposed by scoliosis, he prowled the stage shirtless, his sinewy frame and straw-colored hair illuminated by the stage lights, embodying the very essence of punk rebellion.

Iggy Pop Live

Iggy Pop Live

The setlist was a masterclass in punk history, dominated by The Stooges’ classics like “T.V. Eye” and “Raw Power,” which were delivered with feral intensity. His solo hits, “The Passenger” and “Lust for Life,” ignited the crowd, their anthemic choruses echoing through the historic venue . Even newer tracks from his 2023 album Every Loser held their own, seamlessly blending with the timeless energy of his earlier work.

Supported by a dynamic seven-piece band, including a horn section that added a rich, brassy layer to the sound, Iggy’s performance was both tight and explosive. His vocals were vibrant, showing no hint of raspiness, and his stage presence was as commanding as ever. He engaged the audience with theatrical flair, at one point climbing down to the barrier during “Loose,” challenging the crowd with wild gestures and beating his fists against his torso in a display of unbridled passion .

The evening concluded with a theatrical flourish: Iggy was wheeled offstage in the same coffin from which he had emerged, only to dramatically reappear, beaming and waving to the roaring crowd. It was a fitting end to a performance that was as much about resurrection as it was about legacy.

In an era where many aging rock stars opt for subdued retrospectives, Iggy Pop continues to embody the raw, unfiltered spirit of punk. His Alexandra Palace gig wasn’t just a concert; it was a visceral experience, a reminder that true artistry knows no age. For those in attendance, it was clear: Iggy Pop isn’t just surviving—he’s thriving, leaving everything out there on the stage.

By James Stratton, Music Correspondent