About the song
Iggy Pop’s “The Passenger” is a timeless classic that encapsulates the essence of free-spirited exploration and introspective journeying. Released in 1977 as part of his solo album “Lust for Life,” this track stands out as a quintessential piece in Iggy Pop’s musical legacy.
The song opens with a hypnotic guitar riff that immediately sets the tone for a voyage of self-discovery. Iggy Pop’s distinctive vocals then come in, delivering the lyrics with a raw and passionate energy that draws listeners in from the first line. His voice carries a sense of urgency and longing, reflecting the restless spirit of someone searching for meaning and adventure.
One of the most striking aspects of “The Passenger” is its poetic lyricism. The imagery created through lines like “I am the passenger, I stay under glass” and “We’ll see the cities turn to dust” evokes a sense of transience and impermanence, urging listeners to embrace the fleeting moments of life’s journey.
Musically, the song’s arrangement is deceptively simple yet highly effective. The steady rhythm provided by the drums and bass forms a solid foundation, while the interplay between the guitars adds layers of texture and emotion. There’s a sense of momentum and forward motion that carries throughout the track, mirroring the idea of moving through life’s ups and downs.
“The Passenger” has also enjoyed enduring popularity and critical acclaim over the years. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone. Its universal themes of wanderlust, freedom, and self-exploration resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it a timeless anthem for anyone navigating the twists and turns of life’s journey.
In conclusion, Iggy Pop’s “The Passenger” is more than just a song—it’s a sonic experience that captures the essence of human longing and the thrill of embarking on new adventures. Its enduring appeal lies in its ability to speak to the wanderer in all of us, urging us to embrace the unknown and revel in the journey itself.
Video
Lyrics
I am a passengerAnd I ride, and I rideI ride through the city’s backsidesI see the stars come out of the skyYeah, they’re bright in a hollow skyYou know it looks so good tonightI am the passengerI stay under glassI look through my window so brightI see the stars come out tonightI see the bright and hollow skyOver the city’s ripped back skyAnd everything looks good tonightSingin’ la la la la la la la laLa la la la la la la laLa la la la la la la la, la laGet into the carWe’ll be the passengerWe’ll ride through the city tonightSee the city’s ripped backsidesWe’ll see the bright and hollow skyWe’ll see the stars that shine so brightOh, stars made for us tonightOh, the passengerHow, how he ridesOh, the passengerHe rides and he ridesHe looks through his windowWhat does he see?He sees the silent hollow skyHe sees the stars come out tonightHe sees the city’s ripped backsidesHe sees the winding ocean driveAnd everything was made for you and meAll of it was made for you and me‘Cause it just belongs to you and meSo let’s take a ride and see what’s mineSingin’ la la la la la la la laLa la la la la la la laLa la la la la la la la, la laOh, the passengerHe rides and he ridesHe sees things from under glassHe looks through his window’s eyeHe sees the things that he knows are hisHe sees the bright and hollow skyHe sees the city asleep at nightHe sees the stars are out tonightAnd all of it is yours and mineAnd all of it is yours and mineSo let’s ride and ride and ride and rideSingin’ la la la la la la la la