Patti Smith’s Top 20 Hits: Discover Her Most Iconic Songs Now!

20. Sparkle of Advocacy (2000)

While not every political statement in Gung Ho was well-received – Stange Messengers was notably awkward – the track ‘Sparkle of Advocacy’ stands out with its compelling and forceful message against materialism aimed at the youth. This message is enhanced by the guitar work of Television’s Tom Verlaine, a frequent collaborator.

19. Embrace Silence (1997)

Continuing the themes of loss and mourning from its predecessor, Gone Again, the album Peace and Noise brings ‘Embrace Silence’, a personal reminder likely meant to motivate an emergence from grief and a fresh start, highlighted by the lyrics advocating for renewal and acceptance.

18. Cosmic Simian (1978)

Blending rock’n’roll swagger with narrative lyrics, ‘Cosmic Simian’ contemplates an alien or revolutionary simian uprising, intertwined with references to French actor Pierre Clémenti. Featured in Smith’s commercially successful album Easter, this track ensures her unique artistic presence is unmistakable.

17. Intersecting Journeys (1988)

Penned as a tribute to Robert Mapplethorpe following his partner Sam Wagstaff’s death, ‘Intersecting Journeys’ reflects a poignant yet hopeful perspective on eternity. With Mapplethorpe’s own health in decline, Smith’s creation likely served as a personal solace in anticipation of her friend’s passing.

16. Frederick (1979)

Although initially receiving mixed reviews, Wave has since been appreciated more favorably. ‘Frederick’, the album’s opening song, is a joyful love anthem that captures the excitement and fervor of new love.

15. Liberate Through Privilege (1978)

Transforming the title track from the 1967 film about a manufactured religious icon into a personal statement, ‘Liberate Through Privilege’ integrates Psalm 23 to create a powerful commentary on the complexities of fame.

14. Redondo Beach (1975)

Described upon release as highly original by Rolling Stone, ‘Redondo Beach’ combines a tragically dark narrative with an unexpectedly upbeat reggae rhythm, recounting the story of a girl’s suicide in a locale frequented by the LGBTQ community.

13. Dream of Life (1988)

Despite mixed reviews from fans due to its straightforward 80s rock style, Dream of Life hosts several standout tracks, including its eponymous song, which can be considered a matured counterpart to ‘Because the Night’.

12. Mother Rose (2004)

A song emerging from the depths of personal loss, ‘Mother Rose’ reflects on the passing of Smith’s own mother, offering a tender and atmospheric melody that captures the complexities of generational transition.

11. This Is the Girl (2012)

Smith has consistently honored her departed idols through her music. ‘This Is the Girl’ pays homage to Amy Winehouse, incorporating elements of Winehouse’s style and a lyricism that is both poignant and nurturing.

10. Gone Again (1996)

The last piece Smith wrote with her late husband, Fred “Sonic” Smith, ‘Gone Again’ transformed from a tribute to native culture into a poignant reflection on life’s fleeting nature after his passing.

9. Free Money (1975)

One of the punkier moments on Horses, ‘Free Money’ takes a mundane dream of winning the lottery and turns it into a thrilling crescendo of energy and anticipation.

8. Piss Factory (1974)

While the A-side of her debut single covered ‘Hey Joe’, the B-side, ‘Piss Factory’, is a profound autobiographical tale of ambition and escape, set against a sparse musical backdrop that builds to an exhilarating climax.

7. Land: Horses/Land of a Thousand Dances/La Mer(de) (1975)

An epic nine and a half minutes merging narratives of violence, classic R&B influences, and a celebration of poetic and limitless possibilities, this track is a testament to Smith’s groundbreaking style.

6. People Have the Power (1988)

This anthem has resonated through generations, used by U2 in concerts and political campaigns alike. Its message of empowerment and hope remains impactful and relevant.

5. Beneath the Southern Cross (1996)

In this track, Smith’s voice oscillates between chant and lament, exploring grief before reaching a resonant climax. The song features haunting guitar work and was the last recording of Jeff Buckley.

4. Pissing in a River (1976)

Amid the eclectic and often polarizing reactions to Radio Ethiopia, ‘Pissing in a River’ stands out as a compelling portrayal of love’s darker side, evolving slowly into a powerful emotional outcry.

3. Dancing Barefoot (1979)

Inspired by Jeanne Hébuterne, Modigliani’s tragic muse, ‘Dancing Barefoot’ is recognized as one of the highlights of Wave, covered by numerous artists, and delves into themes of devotion and despair.

2. Because the Night (1978)

Originally a Bruce Springsteen draft, this track was completed by Smith and became a significant hit from Easter, celebrated as a powerful rock anthem.

1. Gloria: In Excelsis Deo (1975)

Opening with an iconic line, this track from Smith’s debut album Horses reinvents the Them classic into a powerful expression of female autonomy and desire, setting the stage for a new era of musical expression.

The 50th anniversary edition of Horses is released on 10 October on Legacy Recordings. The Horses tour of the US and Europe begins on 6 October at the 3Arena, Dublin