Guitarist Lenny Kaye on Patti Smith, Nuggets, and his solo debut

Lenny Kaye, long-time guitarist for Patti Smith and a seminal figure in rock history, discusses his first solo album, *Goin' Local*. The conversation traces his evolution from a music critic and record store clerk at Village Oldies to a versatile musician who values artistic progression over past achievements. Kaye reflects on his uncle Larry Cusick, a professional lyricist who co-wrote hits like the *Godfather* love theme, and the emotional process of setting his uncle's final lyrics to music. He also details his early collaboration with Patti Smith, describing how their organic, improvisational approach to performance—exemplified by their radical reimagining of "Gloria"—helped define the punk aesthetic. Throughout, Kaye emphasizes the importance of staying present and evolving as an artist, viewing music as a universal language that transcends genre and generation.