What personal milestones did Patti Smith celebrate during her NYC performance?

Patti Smith celebrated Election Day, the birthday of her late friend Robert Mapplethorpe, and the anniversary of her husband Fred "Sonic" Smith's passing during her intimate performance in New York City.

How did Patti Smith's performance reflect her personal life and creative process?

During the performance, Smith shared stories and readings from her new memoir "Bread of Angels," which looked back on her childhood, early days in the New York punk scene, and her 14-year marriage to her husband Fred. She also performed stripped-down acoustic versions of her classic songs, including an emotional rendition of "Dancing Barefoot" that she described as a "love song to Fred."

What was the significance of the date November 4th for Patti Smith?

November 4th was a significant date for Patti Smith, as it marked the birthday of her longtime friend Robert Mapplethorpe, as well as the passing of her husband Fred "Sonic" Smith. Smith described the day as a "day of celebration and remembrance" as she reflected on the two important men in her life.

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Patti Smith Marks Personal Milestones with Intimate NYC Performance

5 Nov

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Summary

Patti Smith celebrates Election Day and personal anniversaries in NYC performance
Shares stories of her late husband, photographer Robert Mapplethorpe, and their life together
Performs classics like "Dancing Barefoot" and "People Have the Power"

Patti Smith Marks Personal Milestones with Intimate NYC Performance

On November 4, 2025, legendary singer-songwriter Patti Smith held a special performance in New York City to celebrate a number of personal milestones. The event, which took place at Manhattan's Town Hall, coincided with Election Day, a day that Smith described as "a very auspicious day" and "a very special day."

In addition to the election, November 4th also marked the birthday of Smith's longtime friend and collaborator, the photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. Smith also took a moment to remember her late husband, Fred "Sonic" Smith, who passed away on that same date. "It's a day of celebration and remembrance," she told the crowd, "and knowing that I have the privilege of loving these two wonderful men."