Patti Smith’s 50-year cross-generational musical impact was on full display Wednesday night, as artists both young and old came out to serenade the legendary artist during a tribute concert at Carnegie Hall. The concert, titled "People Have the Power: A Celebration of Patti Smith," was not only a celebration of Smith's monumental career but also marked the 50th anniversary of her landmark album, Horses. Moreover, it served as a charity benefit for music education for underserved youth.
On March 26, 2025, the iconic venue was filled with a star-studded lineup, including Bruce Springsteen, Michael Stipe, Flea, Sean Penn, Karen O, Scarlett Johansson, Maggie Rogers, Johnny Depp, Susanna Hoffs, Jim Jarmusch, Matt Berninger, Glen Hansard, Sharon Van Etten, Courtney Barnett, Angel Olsen, Alison Mosshart, Michael Shannon, and members of Smith’s backing band. The event showcased Smith's enduring influence, demonstrating how her work continues to resonate across generations.
Tony Shanahan, a frequent collaborator of Smith’s, served as the event’s musical director, leading a house band that featured notable musicians like Flea, Steve Jordan, Charlie Sexton, and Benmont Tench. The setlist was a rich tapestry of Smith’s songs, with performances including "Redondo Beach" sung by Barnett, "Gloria" by Karen O, "Frederick" by Rogers, "Easter" by Olsen, and a collaboration of "Dancing Barefoot" by Depp and Mosshart. Additionally, Penn, Johansson, and Shannon recited some of Smith’s poetry, adding a literary flair to the evening.
As the night progressed, the audience experienced a profound connection to Smith’s work. Springsteen took the stage to perform "Because the Night," a song he co-wrote with Smith in 1978, introducing it with heartfelt words of gratitude. He remarked, "If I had sung this song, it wouldn’t have been a hit," acknowledging Smith’s unique voice and lyrics that brought the song to life. Following Springsteen's performance, Smith herself graced the stage, performing "Peaceable Kingdom" and concluding the evening with a powerful rendition of "People Have the Power," inviting many of the night’s performers to join her.
The concert, part of a long-standing tradition of all-star tributes at Carnegie Hall, highlighted the significance of Smith's contributions to music and culture. Michael Dorf, the concert producer, announced at the start that the show would not only focus on songs from Horses but also shine a light on Smith’s extensive body of work, which has become deeply embedded in the history of American music.
Throughout the night, the performances varied in style and interpretation, showcasing the versatility of Smith’s music. For instance, Sharon Van Etten delivered a haunting version of "Pissing in a River," capturing the song's emotional depth. Meanwhile, Michael Stipe, alongside Smith’s daughter Jesse Paris Smith, presented a hypnotic rendition of "My Blakean Year," transforming it into a showstopper. The evening also featured a touching performance by Jesse Malin, who, despite being in a wheelchair following a stroke, stood up to deliver a powerful version of "Free Money," with Flea switching to trumpet for added effect.
The presence of students from the Music Will Academy, who performed a charming version of "Paths That Cross," illustrated the concert's mission to support music education. Their performance hinted at the song’s potential as a high-school graduation theme, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of Smith’s work to new generations.
As the concert unfolded, it became evident that Smith's influence transcends music; it embodies a spirit of activism and resilience. Smith opened the night with a poignant poem, "Cry Humanity," setting a reflective tone that resonated throughout the performances. Her words, "Blessed are the beasts that serve everyone. Blessed is the night that bleeds into day," captured the essence of her artistic vision and commitment to social justice.
In a moment that encapsulated the evening's spirit, Smith encouraged the audience to use their voices, stating, "Don’t forget it — use your fucking voice!" This rallying cry echoed through the hall, reminding everyone present of the power of music and art to inspire change.
As the concert drew to a close, the audience erupted into applause, celebrating not only Smith’s legacy but also the collaborative spirit of the event. Each performer brought their unique interpretation to Smith’s work, creating a rich and emotional tapestry that honored the punk rock poet’s enduring impact.
This fall, Patti Smith will further celebrate the anniversary of Horses by embarking on a tour, providing fans with another opportunity to experience her artistry live. The tribute concert at Carnegie Hall served as a powerful reminder of her influence and the communal power of music to unite people from all walks of life.
In a world where music often serves as a backdrop to life’s challenges, Smith’s work continues to resonate, reminding us of the importance of artistic expression and the collective power of the human voice.
