James Newell Osterberg, Jr. (born April 21, 1947), better known by his stage name Iggy Pop, is an American rock singer, song-writer, and occasional actor. Iggy Pop is considered one of the most important innovators of punk rock and related styles. Iggy Pop is sometimes referred to by the nicknames "the Godfather of Punk" & "the Rock Iguana" is widely acknowledged as one of the most dynamic stage performers of rock. Iggy Pop's direct influence extends to the present day.