Patti Smith, born on December 30, 1946, is an influential American singer-songwriter, poet, and punk rock pioneer. Often referred to as the "punk poet laureate," Smith emerged as a central figure in the New York City punk rock scene in the 1970s with her debut album "Horses." Beyond her musical contributions, Smith is admired for her thought-provoking poetry, activism, and her ability to seamlessly blend rock and poetry into a distinctive and influential artistic expression.