January 6, 2009 17:05

Iggy Pop and The Stooges pay tribute to Ron Asheton

Iggy Pop calls guitarist 'my best friend'

Iggy Pop and The Stooges, along with their management and crew, have spoken following the death of Stooges guitarist Ron Asheton.

Asheton was found dead at his Michigan home today (January 6). It is suspected that he died of a heart attack.

A statement issued by Iggy Pop, Stooges drummer (and Asheton's brother) Scott Asheton, saxophonist Steve Mackay, bassist Mike Watt and The Stooges' management and crew reads:

"We are shocked and shaken by the news of Ron's death. He was a great friend, brother, musician, trooper. Irreplaceable. He will be missed.

"For all that knew him behind the facade of Mr Cool & Quirky, he was a kind-hearted, genuine, warm person who always believed that people meant well even if they did not.

"As a musician Ron was 'The Guitar God', idol to follow and inspire others. That is how he will be remembered by people who had a great pleasure to work with him, learn from him and share good and bad times with him.

Iggy Pop added a further personal statement, simply declaring: "I am in shock. He was my best friend."

An official verdict for the cause of Ron Asheton's death is yet to be given.

We've picked out Asheton's five greatest riffs on the NME Office Blog.