Break It Up - Patti Smith
"Break It Up" is a song by American singer-songwriter Patti Smith, from her debut album "Horses" released in 1975. The track features a haunting melody and evocative lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and longing. The composition of "Break It Up" is characterized by a mesmerizing guitar riff that sets the tone for the song. Smith's distinctive vocals soar over the music, delivering poignant lyrics that convey raw emotion and vulnerability. The track builds in intensity, with a driving beat and powerful instrumentation that creates a sense of urgency and passion. One notable fact about "Break It Up" is that it was inspired by a dream that Smith had about Jim Morrison, the lead singer of The Doors. In the dream, Morrison appeared to Smith and told her to "break it up, oh, I don't understand" which became the central refrain of the song. This dream-like quality is reflected in the ethereal and otherworldly atmosphere of the track. Overall, "Break It Up" is a powerful and emotive song that showcases Patti Smith's unique blend of poetry, music, and emotion. Its haunting melody and evocative lyrics make it a standout track on "Horses" and a timeless classic in the rock music canon.
Patti Smith
Patti Smith, born on December 30, 1946, in Chicago, Illinois, is a legendary American singer-songwriter, poet, and visual artist. Known as the "Godmother of Punk," Smith rose to fame in the 1970s with her distinctive blend of rock music and poetry. Smith's early life was marked by tragedy, as she lost both of her parents at a young age. Despite these hardships, she found solace in art and literature, eventually moving to New York City in the late 1960s to pursue a career as a musician and poet. In 1975, Smith released her debut album, "Horses," which is now considered a classic of the punk rock genre. The album featured iconic tracks such as "Gloria" and "Land of a Thousand Dances," and showcased Smith's raw, unfiltered vocal style and poetic lyrics. Throughout her career, Smith has continued to push boundaries and challenge conventions in both music and art. She has released a number of critically acclaimed albums, including "Easter" (1978), "Wave" (1979), and "Gone Again" (1996), and has collaborated with artists such as Bruce Springsteen and R.E.M. In addition to her music, Smith is also a prolific writer and visual artist. She has published several books of poetry and memoir, including the award-winning "Just Kids" (2010), which chronicles her early years in New York City and her relationship with photographer Robert Mapplethorpe. Smith's impact on music is undeniable. Her fearless, uncompromising approach to art has inspired countless musicians and artists, and her influence can be heard in the work of artists across genres. In 2007, Smith was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing her status as a true icon of rock music. Today, Patti Smith continues to create and perform, captivating audiences with her electrifying live shows and thought-provoking lyrics. Her legacy as a pioneering artist and cultural trailblazer is secure, and her influence on the music world will be felt for generations to come.