On Tuesday, March 25, City Winery NYC hosted a one-of-a-kind live rehearsal show, “People Have the Power – A Celebration of Patti Smith,” offering an exclusive preview of the highly anticipated 20th annual Music Of experience at Carnegie Hall.
The event, presented by Michael Dorf, serves as a tribute to the legendary Patti Smith while raising funds to support music education programs for underserved youth.
This special rehearsal show provided fans with a rare glimpse into the behind-the-scenes magic of the star-studded tribute. The house band featured an all-star lineup led by Tony Shanahan, the longtime musical director for Patti Smith & her band.
Joining him were renowned musicians Benmont Tench (Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers), Steve Jordan (The Rolling Stones), Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers), and Charlie Sexton (Bob Dylan), ensuring an unforgettable night of music and celebration.
The evening was filled with electrifying performances as a diverse array of artists honored Patti Smith’s iconic catalog. Highlights included:
- Susanna Hoffs delivering a stunning rendition of Kimberly
- Karen O channeling raw energy in Gloria
- Michael Stipe offering a haunting take on People Are Strange
- Jesse Malin igniting the stage with Free Money
- Ben Harper moving the audience with Ghost Dance
- Eugene Hütz bringing his signature intensity to People Have the Power
- Glen Hansard closing with a powerful performance of Beneath the Southern Cross
The night culminated with a rousing performance of So You Wanna Be a Rock and Roll Star by the house band, sending the audience off on a high note.
This intimate rehearsal show at City Winery was a true celebration of Patti Smith’s indelible influence on music and culture. With the Carnegie Hall event set to bring even more incredible performances, the tribute not only honors her legacy but also furthers the mission of providing music education to those who need it most. For those lucky enough to attend, it was an evening to remember—a raw, unfiltered, and deeply heartfelt homage to one of rock’s greatest poets.
Setlist: Courtney Barnett – Redondo Beach, Susanna Hoffs – Kimberly, Karen O. – Gloria, Angel Olsen – Easter, Paul Banks – Mother Rose, Kronos Quartet – Elegie, Michael Stipe – People Are Strange, Sharon Van Etten – Pissing in a River, Matt Berninger – Piss Factory, Jesse Malin – Free Money, Ben Harper – Ghost Dance, Maggie Rogers – Frederick, Eugene Hütz – People Have the Power, Alison Mosshart – Ask the Angels, Glen Hansard – Beneath the Southern Cross, House Band – So You Wanna Be a Rock ‘n’ Roll Star
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