When American Mike Ritz first heard Iggy Pop’s song ‘Paraguay’, he had no idea that the punk rock anthem would fundamentally alter the trajectory of his life. The leader with over 15 awards for public service has recently relocated from Washington D.C. to Asunción, with his wife, Elaine. Inspired by a song about a country neither had previously visited. Now he pursues an ambitious mission: bringing Iggy Pop, vocalist and lyricist of former proto-punk band The Stooges, amongst others, to Paraguay.
“I am a big fan of serendipity,” Ritz explains. “If one is paying attention to the world, and the world places messages in front of you, one should listen. And consider those messages carefully.”
Beyond tourist expectations
Ritz’s journey to Paraguay began during a period of professional transition in Washington, D.C. For three years, the former Gallup leadership consultant contributed to strengthening the federal government workforce through training programmes. When the new administration shifted focus towards streamlining government operations, he embraced the chance to apply his expertise in a new context. The moment inspired him and his wife to seek a fresh start, in a place where they could reflect, and explore new possibilities.
The couple’s research into potential destinations brought them back to Iggy Pop’s ‘Paraguay’, the final track from the 2016 album Post Pop Depression, produced by Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age. The song presents Paraguay as a place for renewal, contemplation, and escape from the pressures of modern society.
“One of the lyrics,” Ritz notes, “says something along the lines of, ‘I want to go somewhere where people are still human beings, where they have spirit.’ Does that not sound wonderful?”
A new chapter in Asunción
After less than a month in Asunción, Ritz has found that the reality exceeds his expectations. Rather than joining expatriate networks immediately, he has deliberately focused on connecting with local Paraguayans and has begun collaborating with local organisations on poverty alleviation initiatives.
“The people here appear very genuine and welcoming,” he observes. “Everyone seems open and accepting, which is a beautiful thing.”
For Ritz, Paraguay represents something increasingly rare: a place where progress coexists with cultural preservation. He admires how Asunción develops around century-old trees rather than removing them, maintaining character alongside modern development.
“One maintains the history and feeling of a place while still making progress,” he reflects. “At the end of the day, there is a spirit of the place.”
That same spirit of authenticity draws others as well. Each year, more than 1.5 million visitors are drawn to Paraguay’s cultural richness and natural wonders, seeking the same sense of renewal and connection that Ritz and his wife have discovered.
A mission to bring Paraguay to life
Ritz’s adventure in Paraguay includes an ambitious goal: convincing Iggy Pop to perform his song ‘Paraguay’ in its capital Asunción. With the rock legend scheduled to play in Buenos Aires on 12 September, 2025, Ritz sees potential in the two-week gap before his next show in Boston.
“Would it not be remarkable if we could contact him directly to perform in Paraguay, perhaps at a local venue with a small ensemble of band members?” Ritz suggests.
Music industry contacts have informed Ritz that interrupting a world tour is typically impossible. However, the scheduling gap creates an unusual chance, if approached correctly.
“The key, I believe, is that he himself must be aware. If it goes through traditional industry channels, it becomes about logistics and business considerations. But if he sees it directly, the artistic and personal appeal might be compelling enough.”
The search for authentic living
Ritz’s philosophy reflects what he had been missing previously. “I am recentring on my values, my principles, and my authenticity. I am at a point where I wish to engage in activities that matter, recognising that we only have so much time here.”
Ritz believes his story resonates with others seeking meaning beyond material success. His decision to follow artistic inspiration represents what he sees as a growing human need for genuine connection.
Whether Iggy Pop ultimately visits Paraguay remains uncertain. However, for Ritz, the song has already fulfilled its purpose: leading him to a place where people maintain spirit and community. Now he hopes to return the favour by bringing the artist to experience firsthand what his music helped another discover.
“Serendipity is extraordinary when one is aware enough to experience it, and very powerful when one acts upon it.”
