Patti Smith on the Night That Changed Her Life
In 1976, during America's bicentennial celebration of the Revolution, Patti Smith was touring with her band, Horses, moving boldly toward the future. It was a liberating era filled with unforgettable experiences.
Spending time with William Burroughs in his Bowery bunker, watching Television perform at CBGB, and journeying across the country with her rock band, Patti embraced the cultural explosion around her despite the nation’s deep flaws—Vietnam, racial injustice, and sexual discrimination.
She cherished America's vibrant cultural scene, from rock'n'roll and jazz to activism, abstract expressionism, and the Beat poets. This period made Patti feel empowered and committed to her art.
Touring the West Coast
Her band included Lenny Kaye on guitar, Jay Dee Daugherty on drums, Ivan Král on bass, and Richard Sohl on keyboards. They were joined by Paul Getty and French actor Maria Schneider during the West Coast tour.
Maria Schneider, admired for her roles in The Passenger and Last Tango in Paris, was striking with intense black eyes and untamed dark hair, often dressed in a white shirt and black tie like a reflective surface.
Paul Getty’s Story
Paul Getty, grandson of a wealthy oil heir and survivor of a notorious kidnapping in Italy, was introduced to Patti by William Burroughs. Patti describes herself as a “pale acolyte” among saints passing through Burroughs’ world.
I was quite fond of Paul with his wild red hair, freckled skin, and eyes like mine, slightly cast.
This moment captured a profound convergence of art, culture, and personal connection during a transformative time in American history.
Author’s Summary
Patti Smith recalls 1976 as a pivotal year of cultural vibrancy and personal growth amid America’s contradictions, highlighting key figures and golden memories from her iconic tour.