The Longevity of Punk: Patti Smith’s Retirement and Return

Patti Smith, a founding voice in New York’s punk scene, pulled back from touring in the early 2000s to focus on family and writing, yet continued to shape punk with projects like *The Future Is Not Real*. This episode traces that quiet withdrawal, the creative work she produced during those years—including her memoir *Just Kids*—and the spark that led to a 2011 tour and new studio releases. We explore how Smith’s aging career reflects punk’s DIY ethos, the business realities of long‑term musicians, and the lasting influence of her early, trailblazing output. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices