Patti Smith (born December 30, 1946) is an American poet, singer-songwriter, and visual artist who became a central figure of the New York punk scene with her 1975 debut album Horses - widely regarded as one of the most influential records in rock history. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 and won the National Book Award in 2010 for her memoir Just Kids. Over five decades she has woven rock, spoken-word poetry, and political conviction into a body of work that has shaped generations of artists.
Smith performed at the Lycabettus Theatre in Athens in May 2026, continuing her active European touring schedule.
Smith's memoir Bread of Angels was published on November 4, 2025 - her most autobiographical book to date, tracing her path from a working-class childhood to the recording of Horses and Easter.
Smith completed a major Horses 50th Anniversary tour across Europe and the United States in late 2025, performing the debut album in its entirety with original band members Lenny Kaye and Jay Dee Daugherty.
An all-star tribute concert titled 'People Have the Power: A Celebration of Patti Smith' was held at Carnegie Hall on March 26, 2025, with Bruce Springsteen, Michael Stipe, Karen O, Flea, and others performing; all net proceeds went to youth music education.
A sample from a 1976 Patti Smith interview appears on 'La Yugular' from Rosalía's album Lux, released November 7, 2025.
