In a spectacular celebration of music and activism, a star-studded tribute concert for Patti Smith took place at Carnegie Hall on March 26, 2025. The event, titled "People Have the Power: A Celebration of Patti Smith," marked the 50th anniversary of her groundbreaking album, Horses, while also serving as a charity benefit for music education programs aimed at underserved youth.
The night featured an impressive lineup of artists, including Bruce Springsteen, Michael Stipe, Johnny Depp, and Karen O, who all paid homage to the punk poet laureate's influential body of work. With a house band that included notable musicians like Flea from the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Benmont Tench from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and Steve Jordan of the Rolling Stones, the evening was a testament to Smith's lasting impact on American music.
The concert opened with Matt Berninger from The National delivering a heartfelt rendition of Smith's poem "Piss Factory," the first piece she set to music back in 1974. This set the tone for an evening filled with powerful performances and emotional tributes. Each artist brought their unique style to Smith's songs, showcasing the versatility and depth of her music.
Among the standout performances was Springsteen's rendition of "Because the Night," a song he co-wrote with Smith. He introduced it with gratitude, saying, "If I had sung this song, it wouldn’t have been a hit. It needed her voice and her incredible lyrics. So Patti, I have to thank you dearly for our one big hit together." His performance featured an extended guitar solo that electrified the audience.
Michael Stipe also took the stage, performing "My Blakean Year" with Smith's daughter Jesse on keyboards. His haunting delivery resonated deeply with the audience, highlighting the emotional weight of Smith's lyrics. Other notable performances included Sharon Van Etten's powerful take on "Pissing in the River," and Maggie Rogers, who filled in for Chrissie Hynde, delivering a stirring version of "Frederick," a tribute to Smith's late husband.
As the concert progressed, the atmosphere was charged with love and admiration for Smith. Each artist not only performed her songs but also shared personal anecdotes and reflections on how Smith's work had influenced their own careers. Susanna Hoffs sang "Kimberly," while Alison Mosshart of The Kills performed "Ask the Angels," both capturing the essence of Smith's punk spirit.
The night also included poetry readings from actors like Scarlett Johansson and Sean Penn, who read letters Smith wrote to her late friend Robert Mapplethorpe, adding a poignant layer to the celebration. Jim Jarmusch humorously read a poem by Arthur Rimbaud, joking that the French poet had texted him the English translation.
After nearly three hours of performances, the evening culminated in a powerful finale. Smith herself took the stage, joining her band for a rendition of "Peaceable Kingdom," a song she wrote about the late activist Rachel Corrie. The performance transitioned seamlessly into her anthem "People Have the Power," with all the evening's performers joining her on stage. As Smith led the crowd in the chorus, she passionately declared, "Don’t ever forget it. Use your f–king voice!"
This tribute concert not only celebrated Smith's remarkable career but also underscored the importance of music education, with 100% of the proceeds going to support various non-profit organizations dedicated to this cause. Since its inception, the annual benefit concert series has raised over $2 million for music education programs across the United States.
As the audience stood in applause, it was clear that Smith's influence extends far beyond her music; she continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists alike. The concert was a fitting tribute to a woman whose voice has always been a clarion call for empowerment and change.
In the coming months, Smith will embark on a Horses 50th Anniversary Tour, where she will perform her iconic album in full. This tour promises to be another chapter in her ongoing legacy, reminding fans and newcomers alike of the power of her artistry.
