Ten Essential Songs by Patti Smith

A journey through the music of the godmother of punk in ten of her best songs.

Patti Smith, the godmother of punk, fuses rock, poetry and rebellion to create a powerful and influential body of work challenging conventions and inspiring generations of musicians. With her raw energy and uncompromising spirit, Smith became a voice for social change and artistic expression, leaving an indelible mark on the history of rock music.

Here are ten essential songs by Patti Smith:

10. "Paths That Cross" from Dream of Life (1998)

A reflective and soulful track that explores the intersections of life and love, highlighting Smith’s poetic lyricism and emotive delivery.

9. "Birdland" from Horses (1975, Arista)

A sprawling, improvisational piece blending spoken word and rock, pushing the boundaries of conventional song structures.

8. "Gone Again" from Gone Again (1996, Arista)

A poignant and deeply personal reflection on grief and resilience, showing Smith's emotional depth as a songwriter.

7. "Ask the Angels" from Radio Ethiopia (1976, Arista)

An energetic and uplifting song that encapsulates Smith's belief in the power of connection and transcendence.

6. "People Have the Power" from Dream of Life (1988, Arista)

A rousing anthem for social justice and empowerment, embodying Smith's enduring activism and belief in collective change.

5. "Free Money" from Horses (1975, Arista)

A raw and emotional track, combining vivid storytelling with Smith’s fervent vocal delivery.

4. "Redondo Beach" from Horses (1975, Arista)

A reggae-influenced track that tackles themes of loss and yearning with strikingly unconventional lyricism.

3. "Dancing Barefoot" from Wave (1979, Arista)

A dreamy, introspective track that captures the vulnerability and mysticism central to Smith's artistry.

2. "Because the Night" from Easter (1978, Arista)

Co-written with Bruce Springsteen, this timeless anthem of love and longing became one of Smith's most commercially successful tracks.

1. "Gloria: In Excelsis Deo" from Horses (1975, Arista)

Smith's fiery reimagining of the Van Morrison classic blends poetry and punk, introducing her fearless voice to the world.

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