It’s fitting for the day, even though it was recorded long ago (1990). The footage above features Patti Smith and her departed husband Fred “Sonic” Smith performing a stripped-down, acoustic version of her classic “People Have the Power.” A rare recording of Smith and Sonic performing together, this is a little treasure. Savor the moment.
People have the power
The power to dream, to rule
To wrestle the world from fools
It’s decreed: the people rule
It’s decreed: the people rule
Listen. I believe everything we dream
Can come to pass through our union
We can turn the world around
We can turn the earth’s revolution
We have the power!
Would you like to support the mission of Open Culture? Please consider making a donation to our site. It’s hard to rely 100% on ads, and your contributions will help us continue providing the best free cultural and educational materials to learners everywhere.
Also consider following Open Culture on Facebook and Twitter and sharing intelligent media with your friends. Or sign up for our daily email and get a daily dose of Open Culture in your inbox.
Related Content:
Patti Smith’s List of Favorite Books: From Rimbaud to Susan Sontag
Patti Smith Sings “People Have the Power” with a Choir of 250 Fellow Singers
Love this! I wonder if anyone else hears a resemblance to Bob Dylan in her phrasing.
Love this! Thank you so much.
This makes me vomit. People don’t have the power when elections are stolen.