A Contrarian’s Guide: 4 Patti Smith Songs That Every True Rock Fan Should Avoid Due to….
Patti Smith, the godmother of punk, is an undisputed icon of rock music. Her raw energy, poetic lyrics, and rebellious spirit have inspired countless musicians and fans. However, not every track in her discography is a masterpiece. In fact, some songs stand out not because they’re great but because they miss the mark—or challenge the patience of even the most devoted rock enthusiasts.
In this article, we take a controversial dive into Patti Smith’s catalog to highlight four songs that true rock fans might want to skip. Whether due to their polarizing sound, experimental missteps, or simply their failure to live up to her legendary standards, these tracks prove that even legends have their off moments.
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1. “Hey Joe” (1974)
One of Patti Smith’s earliest recordings, her cover of “Hey Joe” is often celebrated for its historical significance—it was released as her debut single. However, let’s face it: this version doesn’t hold a candle to Jimi Hendrix’s iconic interpretation.
Smith’s rendition attempts to merge the classic song with her own spoken-word poetry, referencing Patty Hearst’s kidnapping in the 1970s. While ambitious, the result feels disjointed, as if the weight of its political messaging overshadows the music itself. It’s an intriguing piece of history but not one you’d blast on repeat. For those who come to Patti Smith for her music rather than her socio-political commentary, this track can be a tough listen.
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2. “Radio Baghdad” (2004)
Clocking in at over 15 minutes, “Radio Baghdad” is a sprawling, improvisational piece from Smith’s Trampin’ album. Written as a response to the Iraq War, the song aims to capture the anguish and devastation of a nation under siege.
While the sentiment is noble, the execution is excruciatingly heavy-handed. The meandering structure, repetitive vocals, and unrelenting intensity make it feel more like a lecture than a song. Rock fans who value concise, impactful tracks may find themselves checking the clock halfway through. “Radio Baghdad” is a bold artistic statement, but it’s also one of Smith’s most divisive works—and not necessarily for the right reasons.
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3. “Gloria: In Excelsis Deo” (Live Versions)
Before the pitchforks come out: the studio version of “Gloria” from Horses is a stone-cold classic. But many live performances of the song veer into indulgence, with Smith extending the intro or breaking into lengthy spoken-word interludes that drain the song of its original ferocity.
Smith’s charisma and spontaneity are part of her charm, but there’s a fine line between captivating an audience and testing their patience. These live renditions often feel like she’s preaching to the converted, alienating casual listeners or newcomers who just want to hear a killer rock anthem.
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4. “Smells Like Teen Spirit” (2007)
Yes, Patti Smith covered Nirvana’s “Smells Like Teen Spirit,” and no, it’s not the masterpiece you’d hope for. Instead of capturing the raw, rebellious energy of the original, Smith transforms it into a folksy acoustic number that strips away its angst and urgency.
While her reinterpretation is undoubtedly unique, it’s also divisive. Die-hard Nirvana fans may find it sacrilegious, while Patti Smith fans may struggle to reconcile this subdued cover with her punk rock persona. This track is a fascinating experiment, but it’s also a prime example of how even legends can misfire when tackling sacred material.
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Final Thoughts
Patti Smith is a trailblazer, an artist unafraid to take risks and push boundaries. But as these four songs demonstrate, not every experiment pays off. For true rock fans, skipping these tracks doesn’t diminish her legacy—it simply allows you to focus on the brilliance that defines her career.
So, next time you’re exploring Patti Smith’s discography, feel free to bypass these tracks and dive straight into her iconic anthems like “Because the Night” or “People Have the Power.” After all, even the greatest artists occasionally stumble—and that’s part of what makes them human.
