Michael Stipe, Matt Berninger, Courtney Barnett and More to Participate in The Music of Patti Smith Benefit Concert at Carnegie Hall

This spring, the founder and CEO of City Winery, Michael Dorf, will continue the tradition of celebrating a select musician through “The Music of…” benefit concert. Artists will assemble and pay tribute to Patti Smith’s repertoire during the event, which will arrive on March 26, 2025, at New York’s Carnegie Hall. As a node of specialty, the gathering will mark the 20th anniversary of the musical charity series, having previously honored Crosby Stills and Nash and other cultural icons. 

Smith’s soiree is scheduled to feature 20+ artists. However, only a select few have been unveiled. The first round of musicians taking part in The Music of Patti Smith are Michael Stipe, Matt Berninger (The National), Courtney Barnett, Sharon Van Etten, Alison Mosshart (The Kills), Kronos Quartet, Ben Harper, Karen O, Kim Gordon, and Angel Olsen.

Supporting the acts mentioned above is a house band led by Tony Shanahan, a long-time member of the Patti Smith Band. Shanahan will lead a cast of seasoned players, such as Flea of Red Hot Chili Peppers and Stanley Jordan of The Rolling Stones. 

Notably, the occasion honoring Smith coincides with the 50th anniversary of Horses, the musician’s 1975 debut LP. Dorf clarified that the material culled for the event will go beyond her first-time release and, in turn, dip into other passions, such as spoken word readings and more artistic expressions, for which she is known and celebrated. 

“The Music of…” has generated a net gain of $1.9 million and annual revenue of $100,000. The charitable angle of the event lends to specialty VIP packages, with money raised through the sale going back to the choice charities. More guests will be announced before the event. For tickets and to learn more, visit carnegiehall.org.