Lenny Kaye

American musician and journalist

Lenny Kaye is an American guitarist, songwriter, producer, and journalist. He accompanied Patti Smith at her spoken-word performance at St. Mark's Church, marking their first collaboration. In 1973, they formed the Patti Smith Group. As the group's guitarist, he contributed to several albums, including Smith's 1975 debut Horses. He also collaborated with Paul McCartney and Allen Ginsberg on The Ballad of the Skeletons.

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Fresh Air Guitarist Lenny Kaye on Patti Smith, Nuggets, and his solo debut Books
Kaye's collaboration with Patti Smith began in 1971 and continues to this day. He says she taught him to trust his musical sensibilities — and to always keep evolving. Now 79, he has his first solo album, called ‘Goin’ Local.’ He spoke with Terry Gross. Subscribe to our free weekly newsletter Follow us on Instagram Subscribe to our YouTube channel Check out the Fresh Air ArchivesSee pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy

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Lenny Kaye on Apple Music

Singles & EPs

Top Songs

Lenny Kaye on Apple TV

Movies

Ron Delsener Presents Documentary · 2025
Patti Smith: Dream of Life Documentary · 2008
CREEM: America's Only Rock 'n' Roll Magazine Documentary · 2020

About

FROM: United States of America
BORN: December 27, 1946
GENRE: Folk