Land: Horses / Land of a Thousand Dances / La Mer(de) - Patti Smith
"Land: Horses / Land of a Thousand Dances / La Mer(de)" is a track by Patti Smith from her debut album "Horses" released in 1975. The song is a medley that combines three distinct sections, each with its own unique sound and theme. The first section, "Land: Horses," is a poetic and introspective piece that showcases Smith's distinctive spoken-word style. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a wild and free horse running through the land, symbolizing freedom and rebellion. The second section, "Land of a Thousand Dances," is a cover of the classic R&B hit originally by Chris Kenner. Smith puts her own spin on the song, infusing it with her signature punk rock energy and attitude. The song features catchy lyrics and a driving beat that encourages listeners to get up and dance. The final section, "La Mer(de)," is a spoken-word piece that serves as a haunting and atmospheric conclusion to the medley. The lyrics are in French and explore themes of love, loss, and transformation. Overall, "Land: Horses / Land of a Thousand Dances / La Mer(de)" is a powerful and eclectic track that showcases Patti Smith's unique blend of poetry, punk rock, and artistry. The song remains a standout track in Smith's discography and a defining moment in the history of punk rock music.
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.