It was presented by the National Music Council on July 13 at The Summer NAMM Show in Nashville, Tennessee, where Smith was joined by such veteran music stars as Grand Ole Opry member Crystal Gayle, as well as actor and comedian Harry Shearer.
The honorees and the presenters joined forces for a special finale performance of the rock classic “People Have the Power,” which was written by the “Godmother of Punk” herself, and her late husband, Fred “Sonic” Smith. These prestigious awards are presented with support from The NAMM Foundation, which is a non-profit organization which works to advance active participation in music making across the lifespan through scientific research, philanthropy and public service programs.
In 2007, Patti Smith was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Digital Journal chatted with Grammy-winning country singer Crystal Gayle in May, a week following her show at the Adelphi University Performing Arts Center (AUPAC) in Garden City, New York.
