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Patti Smith

Live Performances by Patti Smith

Patti Smith Performs 'Redondo Beach' Live in Stockholm, Sweden - 1976

Redondo Beach
Stockholm, Sweden

January 1, 1976 | Video Length: 3:52
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  • In January 1976, when Patti Smith performed "Redondo Beach" in Stockholm, she was riding the wave of her burgeoning career following the release of he... Read Full Description >

    In January 1976, when Patti Smith performed "Redondo Beach" in Stockholm, she was riding the wave of her burgeoning career following the release of her groundbreaking debut album, "Horses," which had come out in late 1975. This album not only showcased her poetic lyrics and punk rock influence but also positioned her as a key figure in the rock and punk movements of the time. The Stockholm performance occurred shortly after the release of "Horses," highlighting her energetic live presence as she gained recognition in the music scene. Interestingly, "Redondo Beach" remains one of her signature songs, reflecting her ability to blend personal narrative with broader themes. This live recording captures the raw emotion and intensity that characterized her early performances, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer for women in rock music.

Patti Smith Group - Live Performance of 'Horses' and 'Hey Joe' at BBC Studios

BBC Studios
London, United Kingdom

May 11, 1976 | Video Length: 8:52
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  • In May 1976, during the live recording featured in "PATTI SMITH GROUP - Horses, Hey Joe - Live BBC Studios," Patti Smith was riding the wave of her bu... Read Full Description >

    In May 1976, during the live recording featured in "PATTI SMITH GROUP - Horses, Hey Joe - Live BBC Studios," Patti Smith was riding the wave of her burgeoning impact on rock music, following the release of her groundbreaking debut album, *Horses*, which came out in late 1975. This album is often credited with bridging the gap between rock and punk, marking Smith as a pivotal figure in the emerging punk scene. The performance at the BBC Studios showcased her raw energy and poetic lyricism, further solidifying her reputation as a compelling live artist. Interestingly, the live performance of "Hey Joe," a classic cover, reflects her ability to reinterpret established rock narratives through her unique artistic lens. At this point in her career, Smith was not only defining her identity as an artist but was also influencing the next waves of musicians with her bold, avant-garde style in the evolving landscape of rock music.

Patti Smith Performs 'Gloria' Live at Cirque Royal, Brussels, 1976

Cirque Royal
Brussels, Belgium

October 12, 1976 | Video Length: 5:06
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  • In October 1976, during the performance of "Gloria" at the Cirque Royal in Brussels, Patti Smith was solidifying her place in the punk rock scene shor... Read Full Description >

    In October 1976, during the performance of "Gloria" at the Cirque Royal in Brussels, Patti Smith was solidifying her place in the punk rock scene shortly after the release of her critically acclaimed debut album, "Horses," which was released in 1975. By this time, Smith had gained recognition for her unique blend of poetry and rock music, significantly influencing the genre. This live recording showcases her vibrant stage presence and her ability to reinvent classic songs; her version of "Gloria" reflects an innovative reinterpretation of Van Morrison's original. Notably, Smith often incorporated improvisation into her performances, emphasizing her artistic freedom and spontaneity. This period marked not just the height of her early career but also the emergence of her signature style, which combined literary prowess and rock performance.

Patti Smith Performs 'Let's Twist Again' Live at Cirque Royal, Brussels

Cirque Royal
Brussels, Belgium

December 10, 1976 | Video Length: 2:35
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  • In December 1976, Patti Smith was riding the wave of success following her breakthrough album "Horses," which had been released in late 1975. She was ... Read Full Description >

    In December 1976, Patti Smith was riding the wave of success following her breakthrough album "Horses," which had been released in late 1975. She was at a pivotal point in her career, gaining recognition for her unique blend of punk rock and poetry. The live recording of her performance of "Let's Twist Again" captures a rare moment where she tackled a cover of Chubby Checker's classic, a song she never officially recorded and performed infrequently. This performance at the Cirque Royal in Brussels highlights her adventurous spirit and willingness to experiment beyond her established repertoire. The year 1976 also marked the release of her second album, "Radio Ethiopia," further solidifying her impact on the music scene. Smith's eclectic style and persona made her a distinctive figure in the punk rock movement, and this live moment represents a fascinating intersection of influences in her evolving artistry.

Patti Smith - 'Free Money' Performance on the Mike Douglas Show

Mike Douglas Show

January 1, 1977 | Video Length: 3:45
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  • In early 1977, Patti Smith was on the rise as a pivotal figure in the punk rock scene following the release of her debut album, "Horses," in 1975. By ... Read Full Description >

    In early 1977, Patti Smith was on the rise as a pivotal figure in the punk rock scene following the release of her debut album, "Horses," in 1975. By the time she appeared on "The Mike Douglas Show" to perform "Free Money," her musical style had garnered significant acclaim, bridging poetry and rock music. This performance coincided with the promotion of her second album, "Radio Ethiopia," which came out later that year. Smith's presence on mainstream television marked an important moment in her career, showcasing her unique artistry and the growing acceptance of punk rock in popular culture. Notably, she was not only a performer but also a poet and visual artist, blending various forms of creative expression, which contributed to her influence in the music world and beyond. This appearance helped solidify her status as a trailblazer for women in rock.

  • In April 1977, during the live recording in Stockholm, Patti Smith was experiencing a significant moment in her career. This concert occurred shortly ... Read Full Description >

    In April 1977, during the live recording in Stockholm, Patti Smith was experiencing a significant moment in her career. This concert occurred shortly after the release of her ambitious second studio album, "Radio Ethiopia," which came out in late 1976. Known for its poetic intensity and raw sound, "Radio Ethiopia" represented an evolution in Smith's artistry, moving further away from the punk influences of her debut album. The setlist from the Stockholm concert featured several songs from this album, including the title track "Radio Ethiopia" and the powerful anthem "Rock N Roll Nigger," both of which highlight her provocative lyrical style and performance energy. Additionally, the concert showcases Smith's blend of rock, poetry, and performance art, establishing her as a pioneering figure in the punk rock movement. With her charismatic stage presence and her unique ability to weave personal narrative with broader social commentary, this performance exemplifies the peak of her creativ

  • In January 1978, when Patti Smith performed "Because The Night" on *Oktagon Görsel TV*, she was enjoying significant success following the release of... Read Full Description >

    In January 1978, when Patti Smith performed "Because The Night" on *Oktagon Görsel TV*, she was enjoying significant success following the release of her critically acclaimed album *Easter*, which came out in 1978. This album included her iconic rendition of "Because The Night," a song co-written with Bruce Springsteen, marking a pivotal moment in her career as it showcased her transition from punk rock icon to mainstream artist. *Easter* was particularly noteworthy as it featured a more polished sound compared to her earlier work, reflecting her growing influence in the rock scene. At this point in her career, Smith was also recognized for her powerful stage presence and poetic lyrics, solidifying her status as a trailblazer in music. This live performance exemplified her dynamic energy and the raw emotion she brought to her music, helping to define the sound of a generation.

Patti Smith Group Live Performance of '25th Floor' on Old Grey Whistle Test

BBC Television Theatre
London, United Kingdom

April 3, 1978 | Video Length: 6:46
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  • In April 1978, Patti Smith was riding high on the success of her third studio album, "Easter," which had been released just one month prior. This peri... Read Full Description >

    In April 1978, Patti Smith was riding high on the success of her third studio album, "Easter," which had been released just one month prior. This period marked a pivotal moment in her career, as "Easter" featured the iconic single "Because the Night," co-written with Bruce Springsteen, which would become one of her signature songs. The live performance of "25th Floor" on the Old Grey Whistle Test exemplifies the raw energy and artistic fervor of the Patti Smith Group during their live shows. Smith was known not only for her music but also for her formidable presence, blending rock, punk, and poetic sensibilities, which captivated audiences. This performance showcased her dynamic stage persona at a time when she was emerging as a prominent figure in the punk rock scene. The electric atmosphere of the BBC Television Theatre served as an ideal backdrop for her powerful and innovative artistry.

Patti Smith Full Concert at Rockpalast Essen - 1979

Rockpalast
Essen, Germany

November 30, 1978 | Video Length: 1:23:27
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Patti Smith - Dancing Barefoot Live Performance at Montreux

Montreux
Switzerland

January 1, 1979 | Video Length: 6:01
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  • In January 1979, during the live performance captured in the Montreux recording, Patti Smith was riding the wave of success following the release of h... Read Full Description >

    In January 1979, during the live performance captured in the Montreux recording, Patti Smith was riding the wave of success following the release of her acclaimed album "Easter" in 1978. This album featured the iconic single "Because the Night," which showcased Smith's unique blend of rock, poetry, and feminist themes. The Montreux performance highlights her vibrant stage presence, a testament to her influence in the punk rock scene of the late '70s. Interestingly, at this time, Smith was also recognized for her literary contributions, having published her poetry collection "Witt" in 1973, which established her as a significant artistic figure beyond just music. The recording reflects her dynamic energy and the cultural impact she was making as a pioneering female artist during an era often dominated by male musicians.

Patti Smith Group - Performance of 'Gloria' at Rockpalast TV, Germany

Rockpalast TV
Germany

April 22, 1979 | Video Length: 9:59
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  • In April 1979, when Patti Smith performed at Rockpalast TV in Germany, she was riding the wave of success from her critically acclaimed album "Easter,... Read Full Description >

    In April 1979, when Patti Smith performed at Rockpalast TV in Germany, she was riding the wave of success from her critically acclaimed album "Easter," which had been released in 1978. This album featured her breakthrough single "Because the Night," co-written with Bruce Springsteen, and solidified her influence in the punk and rock scenes. The live recording captures her powerful and impassioned performances, showcasing her dynamic stage presence and poetic lyrical style. This period was particularly significant as it marked Smith's ascendance in rock music, blending punk with poetic expression. The 1979 concert is notable for her bold and unapologetic delivery of songs like "Rock 'n' Roll Nigger" and "Dancing Barefoot," revealing her artistic intent to challenge societal norms and explore themes of identity and rebellion.

Patti Smith - Dancing Barefoot Performance at Rockpalast TV, Germany

Rockpalast TV
Germany

April 22, 1979 | Video Length: 6:31
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  • In April 1979, when Patti Smith performed at Rockpalast TV in Germany, she was riding the wave of her burgeoning fame following the release of her sec... Read Full Description >

    In April 1979, when Patti Smith performed at Rockpalast TV in Germany, she was riding the wave of her burgeoning fame following the release of her second studio album, "Easter," which came out in March 1978. This album, notable for its hit single "Because the Night," showcased her evolution as a musician, blending rock with poetry and emotional depth. By the time of this live recording, Smith had solidified her place in the punk rock movement, displaying her pioneering spirit. The performance included tracks like "Dancing Barefoot" and "Rock 'n' Roll Nigger," which reflected her artistic exploration and critique of societal norms. Interestingly, the live recording captured her raw energy and charisma while amplifying the impact of her distinct lyrical style that would resonate with audiences for years to come. This performance exemplified her commitment to blending art with activism, a hallmark of her career.

Performance of 'Helpless' by Neil Young with Patti Smith and David Bowie at Bridge School Benefit

Shoreline Amphitheatre
Mountain View, CA, United States

October 26, 1996 | Video Length: 7:34
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  • In October 1996, during the Bridge School Benefit concert, Patti Smith shared the stage with iconic artists like Neil Young and David Bowie, performin... Read Full Description >

    In October 1996, during the Bridge School Benefit concert, Patti Smith shared the stage with iconic artists like Neil Young and David Bowie, performing "Helpless." This event took place shortly after the release of her album "Gung Ho," which had come out in 2000. By this point in her career, Smith was not only recognized for her influential music but also for her powerful live performances and collaborations. Notably, she had previously garnered critical acclaim for her pioneering blend of rock and punk, especially with the landmark album "Horses." The live recording at the Shoreline Amphitheatre not only exemplifies her enduring relevance but also highlights her ability to connect with other legendary musicians, enriching the collaborative spirit of the performance. Smith’s contributions to the song included additional lyrics, showcasing her lyrical prowess and continued artistic evolution.

Exclusive Live Performance of 'E-Bow the Letter' by R.E.M. featuring Patti Smith in New York

New York, NY, United States

November 30, 1997 | Video Length: 6:16
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  • On November 30, 1997, Patti Smith performed live alongside R.E.M. in New York, a notable moment occurring as she was on the cusp of releasing her albu... Read Full Description >

    On November 30, 1997, Patti Smith performed live alongside R.E.M. in New York, a notable moment occurring as she was on the cusp of releasing her album "Gung Ho" in 2000. This period marked a resurgence in her career after a lengthy hiatus from recording new material in the late 1980s and early 1990s. The performance of “E-Bow the Letter,” a song featured on R.E.M.’s 1996 album "New Adventures in Hi-Fi," highlighted Smith's enduring influence in rock music and her collaboration with other iconic artists, reaffirming her status as a powerful and evocative performer. The live recording captures a unique synergy between Smith and R.E.M., merging her poetic lyricism with their alternative rock sound, which resonated deeply with audiences. Smith's ability to adapt and collaborate during this period showcases her artistic depth and reinvention in the late 1990s.

Patti Smith Performs 'Like a Rolling Stone' Live at Montreux Festival

Montreux festival
Montreux, Switzerland

January 1, 2005 | Video Length: 6:44
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  • In January 2005, during her performance at the Montreux Festival, Patti Smith showcased her artistry by covering Bob Dylan's iconic song "Like a Rolli... Read Full Description >

    In January 2005, during her performance at the Montreux Festival, Patti Smith showcased her artistry by covering Bob Dylan's iconic song "Like a Rolling Stone." At this point in her career, Smith had recently released her album "Trampin'" in 2004, which marked a significant return to form after years of relative quiet. "Trampin'" was well-received and reflected her enduring spirit and lyrical depth. The Montreux performance featured her longstanding collaborator Lenny Kaye on guitar, alongside other notable musicians. Smith's ability to reinterpret Dylan's work demonstrates her deep artistic influence and connection to the roots of rock music, as both she and Dylan have often explored themes of freedom, rebellion, and identity in their music. This live recording not only captures her dynamic stage presence but also highlights her status as a vital force in the music scene, crossing generational boundaries.

Patti Smith - 'Free Money' Live at Montreux Jazz Festival 2005

Montreux Jazz Festival
Montreux, Switzerland

July 5, 2005 | Video Length: 5:39
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  • In July 2005, Patti Smith performed live at the Montreux Jazz Festival, showcasing her powerful presence and poetic lyrics with the song "Free Money."... Read Full Description >

    In July 2005, Patti Smith performed live at the Montreux Jazz Festival, showcasing her powerful presence and poetic lyrics with the song "Free Money." This performance came shortly after the release of her album "Trampin'" in 2004, which was well received and marked a significant resurgence in her career. "Trampin'" included themes of social justice and personal struggle, paralleling the sentiments expressed in "Free Money." At the Montreux Festival, Smith brought her trademark blend of rock and spoken word to a European audience, highlighting her status as a cultural icon and influential figure in music. Known for her defiance and passion, she often addressed political issues in her work, making her live performances not just concerts, but powerful statements, especially in a festival known for its rich musical history.

Patti Smith Full Concert Live at CBGB, New York City

CBGB
New York City, NY, United States

October 15, 2006 | Video Length: 3:1:48
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  • In 2006, when Patti Smith performed live at CBGB on October 15, she was in a period of artistic resurgence following the release of her album "Twelve"... Read Full Description >

    In 2006, when Patti Smith performed live at CBGB on October 15, she was in a period of artistic resurgence following the release of her album "Twelve" in 2007. This album marked a significant return to the music scene after a hiatus, showcasing Smith's iconic blend of rock poetry and homage to her influences through covers of classic songs. The performance at CBGB, a venue integral to the punk rock movement, underscored her deep roots in the genre and her continued relevance. Interestingly, Smith had a unique connection to CBGB, as she was part of the early punk scene in New York City, which solidified her place in music history. Known for her literary prowess and distinctive voice, this performance reflects her enduring spirit and commitment to live music, making it a noteworthy moment in her career.

  • In January 2007, Patti Smith performed "Gloria" on Jools Holland, a moment reflecting her enduring influence in rock music, decades after her groundbr... Read Full Description >

    In January 2007, Patti Smith performed "Gloria" on Jools Holland, a moment reflecting her enduring influence in rock music, decades after her groundbreaking debut album, "Horses" (1975). At this point in her career, Smith was re-establishing her presence in the music world, having released "Trampin'" in 2004, which marked her return to the studio after a lengthy hiatus. The performance showcases her powerful vocals and poetic sensibilities, illustrating her ability to blend rock with spoken word. Additionally, Smith's work during this era emphasized themes of social and political consciousness, continuing her legacy as a voice of rebellion and artistry. The performance not only highlighted her classic song "Gloria," but also solidified her status as an icon in the punk rock genre, revitalizing her connection with both new and longtime fans.

Patti Smith's Performance of 'Because the Night' at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
New York, NY, United States

March 12, 2007 | Video Length: 3:49
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  • In March 2007, Patti Smith was honored with her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a significant milestone in her storied career as a pionee... Read Full Description >

    In March 2007, Patti Smith was honored with her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a significant milestone in her storied career as a pioneering artist known for her unique blend of poetry and rock music. Prior to this event, she had released the album "Twelve" in 2007, which consisted of covers of her favorite songs, showcasing her interpretative skills and deep appreciation for music culture. The performance of "Because the Night" at the induction ceremony exemplified her enduring influence and connection to both the rock genre and her fans. Smith's passionate delivery of her iconic song underscored her status not just as a performer, but as an enduring cultural icon, resonating with themes of love and longing that continue to connect with audiences across generations. This performance at such a prominent event solidified her legacy and the impact of her work in shaping rock music.

Patti Smith - Land Horses & Gloria Live Performance at Olympia, Montreal

Olympia
Montreal, QC, Canada

October 21, 2015 | Video Length: 12:37
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Patti Smith Live in Spain 1996 - Full Concert

Damrosch Park Bandshell, Lincoln Center
New York City, NY, United States

July 20, 2016 | Video Length: 1:7:55
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  • In July 2016, Patti Smith performed a live concert at the Damrosch Park Bandshell in New York City, showcasing her enduring influence in the music wor... Read Full Description >

    In July 2016, Patti Smith performed a live concert at the Damrosch Park Bandshell in New York City, showcasing her enduring influence in the music world. Leading up to this performance, Smith had released her most recent studio album, "Banga," in 2012. This album marked her continued evolution as an artist, blending elements of rock, punk, and poetry that have defined her career. During this live recording, Smith not only celebrated her classic hits but also reflected on her role in the punk movement that began in the 1970s. Interestingly, she is known for her deep connection to literature and has often integrated poetry into her performances, further highlighting her unique artistry. The 2016 concert serves as a testament to her lasting impact and relevance in the music scene, where her powerful voice and distinct style continue to resonate with audiences.

Patti Smith Performs 'A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall' at Nobel Prize Ceremony

Stockholm Concert Hall
Stockholm, Sweden

December 10, 2016 | Video Length: 8:23
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  • In December 2016, Patti Smith performed a poignant rendition of Bob Dylan's "A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall" at the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony, marking a ... Read Full Description >

    In December 2016, Patti Smith performed a poignant rendition of Bob Dylan's "A Hard Rain's A-Gonna Fall" at the Nobel Prize Award Ceremony, marking a significant moment in her career. This performance came shortly after the release of her 2012 album "Banga," which featured a blend of rock and poetry reflecting her artistic evolution. Notably, this live recording took place just weeks after Bob Dylan was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature, which added depth and significance to Smith's tribute. Her connection with Dylan runs deep, as she has been influenced by his work throughout her career. This performance not only showcased her powerful vocal delivery but also highlighted her role as an artist who bridges literary and musical worlds, making it a memorable moment in the context of both her career and the celebration of Dylan's achievements.

Patti Smith Performs 'Beds Are Burning' Live in Dublin

Dublin, Ireland

June 6, 2018 | Video Length: 7:53
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  • On June 6, 2018, Patti Smith performed "Beds Are Burning" live in Dublin, showcasing a notable blend of her rock roots and activism. At this time, she... Read Full Description >

    On June 6, 2018, Patti Smith performed "Beds Are Burning" live in Dublin, showcasing a notable blend of her rock roots and activism. At this time, she had recently released the album "Banga" in 2012, which included themes of love, loss, and a critique of modern society. By 2018, she had also been actively engaging with the live music scene, emphasizing her continued relevance and connection to fans. This performance not only reflected her endearing legacy as a pioneer of punk rock but also highlighted her commitment to social and political issues, illustrated by her choice to cover a song by Midnight Oil, a band known for their own activism. Smith's blend of poetry and music, especially during live performances, showcases her enduring status as an influential figure in the music industry.

Patti Smith and Stewart Copeland Perform 'People Have The Power' at Onassis Festival 2019

Onassis Festival 2019
New York, NY, United States

April 13, 2019 | Video Length: 6:59
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  • In April 2019, Patti Smith performed at the Onassis Festival in New York City, collaborating with Stewart Copeland and the vocal group Choir! Choir! C... Read Full Description >

    In April 2019, Patti Smith performed at the Onassis Festival in New York City, collaborating with Stewart Copeland and the vocal group Choir! Choir! Choir! to deliver her iconic song "People Have The Power." At this point in her career, Smith had recently published her memoir, "Year of the Monkey," in 2019, reflecting her continued engagement with literature and storytelling alongside her musical endeavors. "People Have The Power," originally released in 1988 on the album "Dream of Life," serves as a powerful anthem that encapsulates her activism and artistic philosophy. The event itself, themed around democracy, aligned with her longstanding commitment to social and political causes, further emphasizing her influence beyond music. This performance exemplifies her lasting relevance and ability to connect with audiences in significant cultural contexts.

Patti Smith Full Concert - Brooklyn Steel Performance featuring 'People Have the Power'

Brooklyn Steel
Brooklyn, NY, United States

December 30, 2022 | Video Length: 1:49:35
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  • On December 30, 2022, Patti Smith celebrated her 76th birthday with a live performance at Brooklyn Steel in New York, showcasing her enduring vitality... Read Full Description >

    On December 30, 2022, Patti Smith celebrated her 76th birthday with a live performance at Brooklyn Steel in New York, showcasing her enduring vitality as an artist. Leading up to this event, her most recent studio album was "Banga," released in 2012. The concert features a selection of her iconic songs, including "Because the Night" and "Dancing Barefoot," demonstrating her ability to blend poetry and rock music even into her later years. Notably, the performance aligns with her reputation as a fierce advocate for social and political issues, with her shows often serving as a platform for her messages. Smith's continued presence in the music scene, especially at such a landmark event, emphasizes her significance not just as a musician, but as a cultural icon whose influence spans decades. The energy of the live show reflects her connection to her audience and her passionate commitment to her art.

Patti Smith - Full Concert at Madison Square Garden featuring 'People Have the Power' and more

Madison Square Garden
New York, NY, United States

August 18, 2023 | Video Length: 1:2:17
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  • On August 18, 2023, Patti Smith performed at Madison Square Garden, a significant venue in her illustrious career. This live recording comes following... Read Full Description >

    On August 18, 2023, Patti Smith performed at Madison Square Garden, a significant venue in her illustrious career. This live recording comes following her 2022 album, "Banga," which showcases her evolving sound and artistic depth, including themes of love and loss. Known for her poetic lyrics and pioneering presence in the punk rock scene, Smith's live shows often blend music with spoken word elements, as evidenced by her performance of "Footnote to Howl," an homage to the poet Allen Ginsberg. The setlist reflects her diverse influences, including a nod to Television with a cover of "Guiding Light." At 76, Patti Smith continues to captivate audiences with her passionate artistry and profound messages, cementing her legacy as a key figure in American music. The choice to perform at such a prominent venue reinforces her enduring relevance and connection with both new fans and long-time admirers.

Patti Smith Reads Goodbye Letter to Robert Mapplethorpe at Letters Live

The Town Hall
Manhattan, NY, United States

October 12, 2023 | Video Length: 2:36
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  • On October 12, 2023, Patti Smith delivered a heartfelt reading of her goodbye letter to her late friend and partner, Robert Mapplethorpe, at The Town ... Read Full Description >

    On October 12, 2023, Patti Smith delivered a heartfelt reading of her goodbye letter to her late friend and partner, Robert Mapplethorpe, at The Town Hall in Manhattan. This emotional event occurred during a reflective phase in Smith's career, following the release of her most recent album, "Banga," in 2012, which showcased her continual evolution as an artist blending rock music with poetry. Smith's relationship with Mapplethorpe was a significant influence on her work, and she has often expressed the profound impact of his artistry on her own. Their deep connection, marked by both love and artistic synergy, informed much of Smith's writing and creative output. This reading serves as a poignant reminder of their shared history and the lasting legacy of Mapplethorpe, underscoring how personal experiences and relationships mold her artistic expression.

Patti Smith Live Cover of 'Summertime Sadness' at Festival De Nimes

Festival De Nimes
Nîmes, France

July 19, 2024 | Video Length: 5:27
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  • As of July 19, 2024, when Patti Smith performed a cover of "Summertime Sadness" by Lana Del Rey at the Festival De Nîmes, she was deep into a celebra... Read Full Description >

    As of July 19, 2024, when Patti Smith performed a cover of "Summertime Sadness" by Lana Del Rey at the Festival De Nîmes, she was deep into a celebrated career that has spanned several decades. Her most recent studio album before this live recording would have likely been "Banga," released in 2012, showcasing her enduring relevance in the music industry. A notable figure in rock music with a groundbreaking blend of punk and poetry, Smith has often challenged socio-political norms through her work. While this performance highlights her contemporary engagement with newer artists' music, such as Del Rey's, it also illustrates her adaptive artistry; her renditions bring a unique perspective to modern songs, rooted in her rich artistic history. This ability to connect across generations of music emphasizes her status as a pivotal figure in the evolution of rock and her lasting impact on both fans and fellow artists.

  • On July 19, 2024, Patti Smith performed live at the Festival de Nîmes, showcasing her enduring artistry with a performance of "Because the Night." Le... Read Full Description >

    On July 19, 2024, Patti Smith performed live at the Festival de Nîmes, showcasing her enduring artistry with a performance of "Because the Night." Leading up to this concert, Smith has had a prolific career, having released several influential albums since her debut in the 1970s. Prior to this live recording, she had been actively touring and releasing new music, including her acclaimed 2019 album "Ghostwriter" and the 2021 release "The Aloha Sessions," reaffirming her status as a vital figure in rock music. A fascinating aspect of Smith’s career is her unique blend of poetry and rock, often exploring themes of love, loss, and resistance, which resonates powerfully in her iconic song "Because the Night." This performance highlights not only her musical legacy but also her ability to connect with audiences decades after her rise to fame.


U2, Bruce Springsteen & Patti Smith Perform 'Because the Night' at Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Cleveland, OH, United States

Date Unknown | Video Length: 5:11
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  • In the performance featured in the live recording from the 25th Anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Patti Smith shared the stage ... Read Full Description >

    In the performance featured in the live recording from the 25th Anniversary Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, Patti Smith shared the stage with U2 and Bruce Springsteen, a testament to her influential status in the rock music scene. At this point in her career, Smith had recently released her acclaimed album *Gone Again* in 1996, which was her first studio album in six years. This album was particularly significant as it showcased her resilience and artistic evolution following personal tragedies, including the loss of her husband. The collaboration on "Because the Night" further highlights her deep connections within the music community, as the song was originally co-written with Bruce Springsteen and has remained a staple in her repertoire. Smith's performance during this event also symbolizes the broader recognition of her contributions to music, underscoring her lasting impact and the respect she commands among her peers.

  • Before the live recording referenced in the video, Patti Smith had released her acclaimed album "Horses" in 1975, which solidified her status as a pio... Read Full Description >

    Before the live recording referenced in the video, Patti Smith had released her acclaimed album "Horses" in 1975, which solidified her status as a pioneering figure in punk rock and poetry-infused music. During this period, she was gaining significant recognition not only for her music but also for her charismatic and rebellious persona. The anecdote shared in the video about Bob Dylan attending one of her shows highlights the cultural mingling of rock icons. This moment reflects a pivotal time when Patti Smith was starting to draw attention from legendary musicians, showcasing her impact on the music scene. Interestingly, her reputation, sometimes described as "erratic" and "intense," led to challenges in mainstream media acceptance, exemplified by her exclusion from "The Tonight Show" due to Johnny Carson's hesitations. This period was characterized by her boldness and artistic vision, shaping her unique legacy in music history.