‘Godfather of punk’ Iggy Pop will give this year’s John Peel lecture in Salford.
The rock legend will give the annual keynote speech of the Radio Academy’s Radio Festival at The Lowry.
BBC Radio 6 will broadcast his talk on ‘free music in a capitalist society’ live at 5.15pm on Monday October 13 and later on BBC Four.
“I’ve never given a lecture in my life,” said Iggy.
“But on the day I’m going to attempt a discussion on the subject of free music in a capitalist society. This is a struggle which never ends.”
The yearly festival has invited a ‘notable figure from the music industry’ to deliver the illustrious speech since 2011 with Who guitarist Pete Townshend, singer-songwriter Billy Bragg and opera prodigy-turned-pop princess Charlotte Church all taking to the lectern.
Radio 1 legend John Peel, who died in 2004, was the first person to grant Iggy Pop’s band The Stooges exposure on British radio.
He played the track Little Doll from the band’s eponymous debut album in August 1969.
Iggy told the Radio Academy: “John’s done a lot to give others a voice and that’s the most important gift you can give.
“Here was a person with strong opinions and enthusiasms who wasn’t defined by any system.
“Because of that his show became an exciting location, kind of like a shop that’s a good hang.
“So it was a social as well as a musical phenomenon.”
Chris Burns, Chair of Radio Festival 2014 said: “We’re delighted to welcome Iggy Pop as this year’s John Peel lecture speaker.
“Iggy has influenced generations with his music and is a fantastic choice.
“He will bring a unique insight to the Radio Festival and we’re thrilled that he can be a part of it.”
Iggy, 67, hosts a weekly show on BBC Radio 6 Music on Sunday afternoons.
He has also released music as a solo artist and has collaborated with musicians such as Blondie icon Debbie Harry, David Bowie and Peaches.
He is perhaps best known for his work with his band The Stooges, whose albums include Fun House and Raw Power.
Image courtesy of ITV via YouTube with thanks
