Patti Smith shares health update after incident during concert in Brazil: “Trust me I am fine”
Patti Smith has taken to social media to address health concerns after she appeared to faint during a concert in Brazil on January 29th.
Smith performed with the Soundwalk Collective at the Cultura Artística Theater in Sao Paolo. The show consists of Smith reciting her poetry while the Soundwalk Collective provide the music to accompany her writing.
The incident was initially reported by the Brazilian newspaper Folha de S Paulo. They alleged that Smith passed out half an hour into the live event while reading a piece regarding the ongoing climate situation. She was reportedly taken backstage for medical assistance and later returned to the stage in a wheelchair.
While in a wheelchair, Smith is reported to have told the crowd, “Unfortunately, I got sick, and the doctor said I can’t finish. So we will have to figure something out. And I feel very badly.” The audience responded to Smith’s address by saying in unison: “Don’t be, we love you.”
Smith has now taken to Instagram to explain the version of events, stating, “This is letting everyone know that I am fine. A grossly exaggerated account is being spread by the press and social media. I had some post migraine dizziness. Had a small incident, left the stage, and returned 10 minutes later and talked to the people, told them I was fine and sang them ‘Wing’ and ‘Because the Night‘.”
She continued: “I was checked out by an excellent Doctor and was absolutely fine. Please do not accept any other story. With all the strife in the world, this explainable incident does not merit so much attention. Thank you everyone for your concern. Trust me I am fine.”
In a previous statement, the Soundwalk Collective stated that the planned performance at the same Sao Paulo venue would go ahead on January 30th, and Smith’s statement also indicates it hasn’t been cancelled despite her migraine issues.
In late 2023, Smith was forced to cancel the dates of her Italian tour after being hospitalised with a sudden illness while in Bologna. However, she was quickly discharged from the medical facility and returned to touring shortly afterwards.
After leaving the hospital, Smith shared: “I want to thank everyone for sending messages of love and concern. I am resting, as the doctor ordered, grateful to have had such care, though being painfully aware that many are not so fortunate.”
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