ROCK legend and writer Patti Smith says she 'learned a lot' by reading the works of one of Spain's most famous playwrights and poets, Federico García Lorca.

The godmother of punk, who is on tour in Spain and passing through Huelva, Cartagena and Vigo before performing tomorrow in Madrid, Wednesday in San Sebastián and Friday in Girona, says she has always 'admired' Spanish poetry.

“Lorca is one of the great poets, and I have lots of friends who belong to his Foundation and had the great fortune to be able to visit his house in Granada,” explained Smith.

“I have always enjoyed reading him and I've learnt a lot about improvisation and on-scene presence, thanks to him.”

Patti Smith, who currently works as 'advisor' to Johnny Depp in his production of a film about Rolling Stones guitarist Keith Richards, has been performing tracks from her most recent studio album, Twelve, released in 2007.

Her concerts have also included cover versions of REM's Everybody hurts; Nirvana's Smells like teen spirit; Bob Dylan's Changing of the guards, and Jimi Hendrix's Are you experienced?

Throughout her long career, Patti Smith has been famous as a feminist activist and poet as well as a rock star.