Highlights from Patti Smith’s Star-Studded Show in New York

Star-Studded Tribute to Patti Smith

Bruce Springsteen, Michael Stipe, Maggie Rogers, and Matt Berninger from The National held a star-studded show in New York celebrating Patti Smith. Check out the personnel, photos, and much more about the event below.

• Read more: Patti Smith Live in London: the poet-laureate Panku claims to the Legend Status

Performances and Highlights

Last night (March 26), Carnegie Hall in New York hosted People Have the Power: A Tribute to Patti Smith, honoring her impactful work from 1975 while also marking the 20th anniversary of Michael Dorf’s Music series. The event raised over $2 million for non-profit organizations supporting music education, with all proceeds dedicated to funding musical education for low-income youth.

Footage from the night went viral, as Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist Flea shared a tweet commending the event as “fun.”

Well, it was fun like a fook! https://t.co/mjgaxd0mmkn

– Flea (@flea333) March 27, 2025

Matt Berninger of The National joined the Night’s House Band, led by Smith, along with Flea on bass, Rolling Stones drummer Benmont Tench, and guitarist Charlie Sexton. Together, they electrified the audience with their rendition of “Piss Factory.”

Matt Berninger of National executing “Piss Factory” in New York at Patti Smith Show pic.twitter.com/ejcrqt1rjz

– Anagricel (@itsanagricel) March 27, 2025

The next performance featured Jesse Malin, who, despite being in a wheelchair due to a spinal injury in 2023, stood up to sing “Free Money,” showcasing his resilience and emotional depth.

Other notable performers included Courtney Barnett with a vibrant execution of “Redondo Beach,” and Sharon Van Etten, who brought her powerful voice to “Scripture in the River.”

Courtney Barnett performs “Redondo Beach” at the Tribute to Patti Smith show in New York pic.twitter.com/gvovtdxlow

– Anagricel (@itsanagricel) March 27, 2025

Setlist Highlights from the Tribute

“Piss Factory” (Matt Berninger)
“Free Money” (Jesse Malin)
“Redondo Beach” (Courtney Barnett)
“Scripture in the River” (Sharon Van Etten)
“Ghost Dance” (Ben Harper)
“Dancing Barefoot” (Johnny Depp and Alison Mosshart)
“Because the Night” (Bruce Springsteen)
“People Have the Power” (Patti Smith and Friends)

By the end of the night, Patti Smith herself graced the stage to perform “People Have the Power,” expressing gratitude to everyone who attended and contributed to such a worthy cause.

In exciting news, Patti Smith has announced a series of special concerts to celebrate the 50th anniversary of “Horses,” set to take place across Europe, Great Britain, and the USA later this year.