Patti Smith on the Night That Changed Her Life
In 1976, the bicentennial year celebrating the American Revolution, we were touring the album Horses, moving boldly into the future. It was a liberating time, spending moments with William Burroughs in his Bowery bunker, watching the band Television at CBGB, and envisioning a chaotic future alongside my brother Todd while traveling across America with a rock'n'roll band.
Despite our country's serious flaws—Vietnam, racial injustice, and gender discrimination—we took pride in America’s cultural achievements such as rock'n'roll, jazz, activism, abstract expressionism, and the Beat Generation. During this period, I felt a strong sense of personal power and faith in our mission.
The West Coast Tour and Companions
While touring the West Coast with the band—Lenny Kaye on guitar, Jay Dee Daugherty on drums, Ivan Král on bass, and Richard Sohl on keyboards—we were joined by Paul Getty and the French actress Maria Schneider.
“Maria, loved for her roles in The Passenger and Last Tango in Paris, had intense black eyes and a wild mass of dark hair. She wore a white shirt and black tie, like a living mirror.”
“Paul was the grandson of one of the wealthiest oil tycoons globally and a survivor of a notoriously failed kidnapping in Italy.”
William Burroughs had introduced me to Paul, a pale, young follower passing through his circle of saints. I felt an affection for Paul with his fiery red hair, freckled complexion, and eyes that mirrored my own, slightly turned to the side.
Reflecting on a Transformative Time
The era was charged with creativity and rebellion. Our collective experiences and encounters shaped a pivotal moment in my life and career.
Author’s summary: Patti Smith recalls the vibrant and challenging bicentennial year of 1976, reflecting on cultural influences, personal connections, and the creative energy that defined her journey.
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