Patti Smith: Horses 33 1/3 Philip Shaw

Patti Smith's debut album, Horses, released in 1975, is a landmark in the history of rock music. It is a groundbreaking work that defies genre conventions, blending elements of punk rock, proto-punk, garage rock, art rock, and poetry. The album's raw energy, poetic lyrics, and unforgettable melodies have made it an enduring classic. In his 2005 book Horses 33 1/3, music critic Philip Shaw provides a comprehensive analysis of the album, exploring its cultural and musical significance, its impact on Smith's career, and its enduring legacy.

Patti Smith's Horses (33 1/3 Book 55)

by Philip Shaw

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1575 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	160 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

The Creation of Horses

Patti Smith began writing the songs for Horses in the early 1970s while living in New York City. She was influenced by the vibrant punk and art scenes of the era, and her lyrics often reflected her own experiences as a woman and an artist. Smith worked closely with producer John Cale, who helped her shape her songs and create a unique sound for the album. The resulting work is a raw and powerful statement that captures the spirit of the time.

Musical Style and Influences

Horses is a musically diverse album that draws on a variety of influences. The songs range from the proto-punk anthem "Gloria" to the art rock ballad "Birdland." Smith's lyrics are often poetic and introspective, and her vocals are raw and emotional. The album's sound is characterized by its use of distorted guitars, driving rhythms, and atmospheric keyboards.

Shaw argues that Horses is not simply a punk rock album. It is a work that transcends genre and draws on a variety of musical traditions. He points to the album's use of folk, blues, and even classical influences. Smith's eclecticism is one of the things that makes Horses such a unique and enduring work.

Cultural and Social Significance

Horses was released at a time of great social and political upheaval. The album's themes of rebellion, self-expression, and female empowerment resonated with a generation of young people who were looking for a new voice. Smith's music became a soundtrack for the counterculture movement, and she became an icon for feminists and LGBTQ+ people.

Shaw argues that Horses is more than just a rock album. It is a cultural artifact that reflects the spirit of a generation. The album's themes of freedom, individuality, and creativity continue to inspire people today.

Impact on Patti Smith's Career

Horses was a critical and commercial success, and it launched Patti Smith's career as a singer-songwriter. The album's success allowed Smith to tour extensively and to release a series of follow-up albums. She has become one of the most respected and influential figures in rock music.

Shaw argues that Horses is the album that defined Patti Smith's career. It is the work that established her as a major artist and that continues to influence her music today.

Legacy and Enduring Influence

Horses is considered one of the greatest albums of all time. It has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and the National Recording Registry. The album has been covered by numerous artists, and its songs have been used in films and television shows.

Shaw argues that Horses is a timeless work that continues to inspire and influence artists today. The album's themes of rebellion, individuality, and creativity are as relevant today as they were when the album was first released.

Patti Smith's Horses is a landmark album in the history of rock music. It is a groundbreaking work that defies genre conventions and that has had a profound impact on music and culture. Philip Shaw's Horses 33 1/3 is a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the album that explores its cultural and musical significance, its impact on Smith's career, and its enduring legacy.

Patti Smith's Horses (33 1/3 Book 55)

by Philip Shaw

4.5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1575 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	160 pages
Lending	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE