MFM Presents… Disgraceland
- Apr 17, 2026
- 57:57
- Full Episode
My Favorite Murder presents the hit music podcast Disgraceland hosted by Jake Brennan, now on the Exactly Right network.
In this episode, “Patti Smith: How True Crime Helped the ‘Godmother of Punk’ Survive,” Patti Smith’s story unfolds against a backdrop of crime and cultural upheaval. Influenced by artists like Jean Genet and William S. Burroughs, Patti created music for outsiders while learning how to navigate a dangerous and unpredictable world.
Disgraceland dives into the real stories behind music’s biggest legends—from crimes and scandals to the moments that shaped their lives and careers, all told through immersive, fully scripted storytelling.
Listen to Disgraceland on the iHeartRadio app, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. For updates, behind-the-scenes content and more, follow Disgraceland on Instagram and TikTok @disgracelandpod.
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Brief Summary
Patti Smith's rise in 1970s NYC intertwines art and crime, exploring her relationships and the dangers she faced as an artist.
Key points
- Patti Smith's Calling. Patti Smith found her calling as an artist in the shadows of martyrs in museums.
- The Dark Side of Art. Exploring the dangers faced by artists like Patti Smith in pursuit of their craft.
- Life in the Chelsea Hotel. The Chelsea Hotel was a hub for artists and danger, shaping Patti's journey.
- Patti's Transformative Performance. Patti Smith's debut performance at St. Mark's Church marked a turning point in music.
- The Birth of a New Genre. Patti Smith merges poetry and rock, creating a new artistic expression.
- The Impact of 'Horses'. Patti's debut album 'Horses' redefined rock music and received critical acclaim.
Episode highlights
- Patti Smith's CallingPatti Smith found her calling as an artist in the shadows of martyrs in museums.“It was then that Patty Smith heard her calling, to become an artist.”13:09Apr 17, 2026
- The Dark Side of ArtExploring the dangers faced by artists like Patti Smith in pursuit of their craft.“The pursuit of art was dangerous.”16:51Apr 17, 2026
- Life in the Chelsea HotelThe Chelsea Hotel was a hub for artists and danger, shaping Patti's journey.“All the danger that the Chelsea Hotel represented didn't scare Patti Smith.”25:25Apr 17, 2026
- Patti's Transformative PerformancePatti Smith's debut performance at St. Mark's Church marked a turning point in music.“This one's for the criminals.”37:47Apr 17, 2026
- The Birth of a New GenrePatti Smith merges poetry and rock, creating a new artistic expression.“Patti Smith had answered her calling.”38:15Apr 17, 2026
- The Impact of 'Horses'Patti's debut album 'Horses' redefined rock music and received critical acclaim.“Patty's songs on horses touched deep wellsprings of emotion.”42:49Apr 17, 2026
- Patti's Artistic EvolutionPatti's music evolves as she navigates the gritty realities of 1970s New York.“Patti Smith was a revolution.”43:51Apr 17, 2026
- The Son of Sam Terrorizes NYCA series of shootings in New York City instills fear among its residents.“The night no longer belonged to the city's lovers.”51:00Apr 17, 2026



