When the Godfather of Punk tips his hat to someone, the world listens. On a recent episode of his BBC 6 Music show, Iggy Confidential, Iggy Pop had nothing but admiration for Tyler, The Creator, calling him a “genuine, old-school talent with a new-school approach.”
The admiration stems from a collaboration back in 2021, where Iggy and Tyler teamed up for a Gucci campaign alongside A$AP Rocky. Directed by Harmony Korine, the ad featured the trio decked out in sharp suits, goofing around in a lavish West Coast mansion—eating spaghetti, dancing in bathrooms, and generally exuding effortless cool. The campaign might’ve been a one-day gig, but it clearly left a lasting impression on the punk icon.
“I’ve always liked Tyler,” Iggy reflected on air. “He would do what it takes to get attention. He’s also a genuine all-around song, dance, writer talent — a genuine old-school talent with a new-school approach.”
It’s rare to see such a seamless crossover between generations and genres, but Tyler has built a career out of defying conventions. Whether it’s his critically acclaimed albums like IGOR or his vibrant fashion collaborations, Tyler’s relentless creativity has made him a standout in a landscape often criticised for its homogeneity.
For Tyler, 2024 was another banner year, with the rapper recently sharing his favorite tracks of the year in an Instagram post. The list, as eclectic as the man himself, featured Kendrick Lamar’s “GNX,” GloRilla’s “Hollon,” Mk.gee’s “Alesis,” and SahBabii’s “Viking.” “Thank you all for these songs. I’m so grateful I get to hear them. I love you, I want to eat them broooooo,” Tyler wrote, capturing his signature mix of humor and sincerity.
Meanwhile, Iggy Pop isn’t slowing down either. The punk legend is gearing up for “landmark” UK shows in London, Manchester, and Glasgow later this year. These performances promise to be a celebration of his five-decade career, pulling from a catalogue that has influenced countless artists—Tyler included.
When Iggy Pop calls you a talent, you’ve clearly done something right. And when someone like Tyler, The Creator effortlessly blends the past with the future, it’s not hard to see why Iggy, and the rest of us, are paying attention.