Rebel rebel

January 31 was a Saturday night to remember for anyone who had the opportunity to attend Patti Smith’s concert at the Balboa Theatre downtown. Smith shined throughout this special night with an inspired and inspiring performance.

Often called the “godmother of punk,” Smith’s music, poetry, and performance drew energy from the audience and returned it tenfold. The audience of soccer moms, aging hipsters, and teenagers felt connected throughout the show, a nostalgic vibe revitalized on this one night.

This year, Smith’s masterwork, Horses, turns 40 years old, and in honor of that momentous occasion, she had two of the original musicians from that album join her onstage: Lenny Kaye on guitar and Jay Dee Daugherty on drums.

One of the highlights of the night was Smith delivering her own outrageous, unforgettable version of Nirvana’s hit “Smells Like Teen Spirit” — complete with banjo!

With the confidence of age and wisdom, Patti Smith continues to rebel and move masses with her raging passion for music. As a 17-year-old woman, I feel privileged to have had the opportunity to experience this eye-opening and life-affirming concert. As a 70-year-old woman, this rock legend gave me a gift that has traveled generations — empowerment through art.

• Concert: Patti Smith
• Date: January 31
• Venue: Balboa Theatre
• Seats: D 115