June 5, 2024
An acclaimed singer, songwriter, poet, painter, and author, Patti Smith has inspired countless artists. From R.E.M. and PJ Harvey to Lorde and Arlo Parks, her influence as one of music’s most progressive and impactful performers transcends generations.
Born in Chicago and raised in New Jersey, Patti moved to Manhattan in her early twenties, inspired by Bob Dylan, Allen Ginsberg, and the city’s beatnik poetry scene.
It was here that she met her longtime creative partner and best friend Robert Mapplethorpe. They lived together at the Hotel Chelsea.
Popularised by Andy Warhol’s film Chelsea Girls in the late 1960s, Hotel Chelsea became a creative incubator, housing the likes of Bob Dylan, Arthur Miller, and Welsh poet Dylan Thomas.
After years as a struggling poet and musician, Patti’s breakthrough came with her 1975 debut album Horses. The iconic cover photo was shot by Robert.
In 1978 she worked with Bruce Springsteen, co-writing the epic hit Because the Night.
In 2010 she published the beautiful and heartbreaking memoir Just Kids, which details her tumultuous relationship with, and enduring love for, Robert.
Patti Smith has released eleven albums and published over twenty books. Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2007, she is one of music’s most influential and respected artists.
![Patti Smith – Five Facts You Need To Know](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/psw-600x300.png)
Patti Smith – Five Facts You Need To Know
An acclaimed singer, songwriter, poet, painter AND author, Patti Smith has inspired countless artists from Lorde to R.E.M. and many more.
Read more![Spotlight in Stereo – International Women’s Day](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Spotlight-Web-Banner-Desktop-600x300.jpg)
Spotlight in Stereo – International Women’s Day
Happy International Women’s Day! Today, just like many others, our office stereo will be blasting some of the best, boldest and most empowering female anthems.
Read more![THIS WEEK IN ROCK](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/twir_wk03.gif)
THIS WEEK IN ROCK
Legendary shows, groundbreaking album anniversaries, eye watering memorabilia auctions and more – it’s this week in rock.
Read more![This Week In Rock](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/twir03.gif)
This Week In Rock
All star shows, landmark releases, the rise and fall of legendary venues, it’s This Week In Rock…
Read more![Guest Column: Pop & Poetry](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2016/10/bob-dylan-nobel-prize_02-600x347.jpg)
Guest Column: Pop & Poetry
The boundary between pop lyricism and poetry or literature has long been a cause of debate, and never more so than in the recent decision to award Bob Dylan the Nobel Prize For Literature. The Quietus’ Luke Turner explores the frontier.
Read More...![NYC Legacy Locations](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Cover-600x286.png)
NYC Legacy Locations
Iconic artists photographed and mapped around New York City!
Read more![LEGACY READER DIGEST: AUGUST](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/Banner-600x329.png)
LEGACY READER DIGEST: AUGUST
What to read and watch on the web this month!
Every month, we’ll gather up essential online pieces for you to enjoy!
Read more![Playlist of the month: June 2015 – 70’s](https://cdn-p.smehost.net/sites/10d73e1b018f433a8886a6a85de63664/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/01102211/Filtr_Bestofthe70s-600x300.jpg)
Playlist of the month: June 2015 – 70’s
More than 5 hours of music from the 1970s
Read more