Music and literature

Authors

Patti Smith Wins Princess of Asturias Award for the Arts 2026: Poetry, Punk, and a Prize Long Overdue

Spain's Princess of Asturias Foundation has awarded its 2026 Arts prize to Patti Smith, 79, for her "impetuous creativity that connects rock, symbolist poetry and the spirit of the counterculture." In October, Oviedo awaits the godmother of punk.

Authors

David Byrne Has a New Book Coming. What a Surprise.

The Talking Heads frontman has announced a new book for autumn 2026, title and subject still undisclosed. A sardonic look at why Byrne remains the rare rock star whose books are worth anticipating.

News

Steve Albini’s Words: Why His Posthumous Collection Matters Beyond Music

Random House has acquired a posthumous collection of writings by Steve Albini, who died in May 2024. The musician-engineer-essayist left behind not just records, but an argument about how to live in culture honestly.