The Latest Breaking News from Fred Sonic Smith

Published in November, it will cover everything from Smith’s childhood to her rise as a punk rock star and later retreat from public life

IN FOCUS: Patti Smith’s groundbreaking debut has influenced generations of musicians. But it took a producer four years to persuade Smith to enter the studio. As the album approaches its 50th birthday, Fiona Sturges reflects on how Smith overcame the misogyny of the time and pays tribute to a masterpiece…

Thompson was the last surviving member of the group after the death of guitarist Wayne Kramer in February

Founder member of the influential rock band MC5 whose explosive live act was captured on the album Kick Out the Jams

The co-founder and guitarist of the influential Detroit band died at the age of 75 on February 2

Guitarist helped to give Detroit band their powerful, politically charged sound and continued their legacy into the 21st century

With his six-string brother-in-arms, the late Fred “Sonic” Smith, Kramer was the architect of the MC5's tough, years-ahead-of-its-time sound, best exemplified on their legendary 1969 debut album, Kick Out the Jams

DETROIT — Rolling Stone ranks Aretha Franklin No. 1 in its list of the "greatest singers of all time" on Sunday.

This year's selection of visual delights highlights the work of artists and designers who have made an enduring impact, including Lucian Freud, Elsa Schiaparelli and Patti Smith.