Iggy Pop defied all odds to turn 70 over the weekend (well, on Friday), and among the many well-wishers was James Hetfield from Metallica, who solemnly removed his shirt in honour of the legendary frontman’s penchant for living most of his life topless. Well, it wasn’t that solemn.

“Hey, Iggy. Happy 70th birthday”, opened Hetfield’s video greeting, posted to Iggy’s FB page. “You don’t look a day over 30. I’ve enjoyed immensely getting to know you over this year and have nothing but respect and love for you and what you’ve done for rebellious music. And I just wanna say that you’re not only a survivor but a huge inspiration for me as I battle on into older age and enjoy every moment of it.

“So I think everyone there, in honor of Iggy and his 70th, should take their shirts off. Yeah! Have the faith! Keep the faith, brother! Take your shirt off.”

While Hetfield without a shirt isn’t exactly everyone’s idea of a good time, his intentions were pure. Hapy birthday, Iggy. Here’s to 70 more, science-willing.

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