"The Idiot" is the debut solo album by American musician Iggy Pop. Released on March 18, 1977, this album was co-written and recorded in collaboration with David Bowie. The music recording sessions took place in Munich and the Château d'Hérouville in France. A departure from the hard rock style of Pop's former band The Stooges, "The Idiot" features a dark, electronic-infused sound with elements of rock and industrial music.
The album was named after the novel "The Idiot" by the Russian author Fyodor Dostoevsky. Bowie's significant influence on the album's sound has sparked controversy and attributed to his own "Berlin Trilogy" of albums. The album's peculiar sound was a significant departure from Pop's past work but ultimately opened the gateway for his future endeavors.
"The Idiot" was well-received critically and is considered one of Pop's best works. Tracks like "China Girl," "Funtime," "Nightclubing," and "Sister Midnight" became popular and are frequently cited as significant influences on artists like Depeche Mode, Joy Division, and Nine Inch Nails. However, the album did not achieve mainstream success, peaking at No. 72 on Billboard 200.
After "The Idiot," Iggy Pop continued his successful collaboration with Bowie, resulting in his next album, "Lust for Life." In general, "The Idiot" has been recognized for its impact on punk rock and new wave genre and leaving a lasting mark on the world of pop culture.
