The minimalist style of punk rock, which was just emerging at the time, influenced the music of Horses. The songs on the album were written by Smith and her band utilizing straightforward chord progressions, breaking with punk tradition in their tendency for improvisation and acceptance of concepts from other musical genres.
Smith’s lyrics for Horses were a mix of more magical images and her own experiences, especially those involving her family.
How old was Patti Smith when Horses came out?
For those who purchased Patti Smith’s debut album Horses when it was released 47 years ago, doors opened. That might sound like hype, but Horses made an impression on musicians of a certain generation.
Lou Reed, Bob Dylan, and Bruce Springsteen all recognized a similar spirit. In its aftermath, a world of riot grrrls and independent singer-poets, including Sleater-Kinney, Kathleen Hanna, and Martha Wainwright, arose. Michael Stipe and Bono still wax poetic about it.
The first studio album by American performer Patti Smith is titled Horses. When Petti was 29 years old, Arista Records put it out on November 10th, 1975.
