Number 62 January 16, 2011

Patti Smith was on Charlie Rose speaking about her new book about her relationship with Robert
Maplethorpe.  She mentioned that fame used to be different; more enjoyable, a little club where enthusuiasts would know you, but you could walk the streets without being hassled.  She mentioned once being in a diner, and not having quite enough change for her sandwhich at the counter.  The man behind her paid for her; he was Allen Ginsberg!  She was amazed, and he went on to become one of her most profound mentors.  In the late 70's, when my first record Alicia was about to be released, I ran into Allen Ginsberg and Gregory Corso at the Cafe Roma in North Beach.  I introduced myself and asked him if he would consider writing the liner notes if he liked the music.  He said sure!  I had also called Herbie Hancock  (he was in the phone book in LA!) to ask if he would play on the recording.  He said that he would.  Unfortunately, my record label wouldn't pay for either.  (We are talking hundreds, not thousands, of dollars that many years ago).  I think that was when I decided to have my own label some day.