Artist

Patti Smith

1974-present·New York City

A poet who turned herself into a rock performer, Patti Smith made her CBGB debut on Valentine's Day, 1975, and proved in one night that punk could be literate, spiritual, and confrontational all at once. She'd seen Television play their third gig on April 14, 1974, and walked away understanding that rock could be high art and pure gut feeling in the same breath.

The full story is in CBGB's 70s Punk.

At a glance

Active
1974–present
From
New York City, USA
Records in the issues
1 (1975), 1 of them a Start here pick
Original label
Arista
Listening guide track
“Because the Night”

Listen

In the CBGB's 70s Punk listening guide: “Because the Night”

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In the issues

  • CBGB's 70s Punk
    Principal · 1973-1982 · Members

    CBGB's 70s Punk is a music scene from New York City, USA, 1973–1982. Its principal artists include Ramones, Television, Talking Heads and Patti Smith. This issue covers 10 essential albums and 15 dated events.

Records

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