History of Joan Baez in Timeline
Joan Baez is an iconic American folk singer, songwriter, musician, and activist known for her powerful voice and commitment to social justice. With a career spanning over six decades and 30 albums, her music often reflects themes of protest and activism. Baez's enduring legacy lies in her ability to blend music and social commentary, making her a significant figure in contemporary folk music.
1912: Birth of Albert Baez
Albert Baez, Joan Baez's father, was born in Puebla, Mexico in 1912.
April 11, 1913: Birth of Joan Chandos Baez
Joan Chandos Baez, Joan Baez's mother, was born on April 11, 1913.
1938: Birth of Pauline Thalia Baez Bryan
Pauline Thalia Baez Bryan, Joan Baez's older sister, was born in 1938.
January 9, 1941: Birth of Joan Baez
Joan Baez was born on January 9, 1941 in Staten Island, New York City.
1945: Birth of Margarita Mimi Baez Fariña
Margarita Mimi Baez Fariña, Joan Baez's younger sister, was born in 1945.
1950: Albert Baez Receives PhD from Stanford
In 1950, Albert Baez received his PhD from Stanford University, marking an important milestone in his academic career.
1956: First Heard Martin Luther King Jr. Speak
In 1956, Baez was deeply moved by a speech on nonviolence, civil rights, and social change delivered by Martin Luther King Jr., which brought tears to her eyes. The two would later become friends.
1957: Joan Baez Purchases Her First Guitar
In 1957, Joan Baez purchased her first Gibson acoustic guitar, a pivotal moment in her musical journey.
1958: Joan Baez Graduates from Palo Alto High School
Joan Baez graduated from Palo Alto High School in 1958.
1958: Joan Baez's First Concert
Joan Baez performs her first concert at Club 47 in Cambridge in 1958.
1959: Early Musical Career and the Newport Folk Festival
In 1959, Joan Baez took significant steps in her musical career. She recorded an album with fellow enthusiasts, designed by a family friend, and released it as "Folksingers 'Round Harvard Square." Notably, she connected with influential figures like Bob Gibson and Odetta, the latter becoming a significant influence alongside Marian Anderson and Pete Seeger. Gibson's invitation led to her performance at the 1959 Newport Folk Festival, where their duets garnered widespread acclaim. This breakthrough led Baez to sign with Vanguard Records, prioritizing artistic freedom.
1959: Breakthrough at Newport Folk Festival
Joan Baez's performance at the 1959 Newport Folk Festival marked a turning point in her career. Her appearance, singing with Bob Gibson, led to a recording contract with Vanguard Records, launching her professional career.
November 5, 1960: New York Concert Debut
On November 5, 1960, Joan Baez made her New York concert debut at the 92nd Street Y, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
1960: Start of Tenure with Vanguard Records
Joan Baez began her tenure with Vanguard Records in 1960, marking the start of a successful partnership that would last for over a decade. This period saw the release of some of her most iconic albums, establishing her as a leading figure in the folk music revival.
1960: Debut Album Release
Joan Baez released her self-titled debut album in 1960, produced by Fred Hellerman, known for his work with folk artists. The album, a collection of traditional ballads, blues, and laments, achieved moderate success. It notably included "El Preso Numero Nueve," a song in Spanish, which she later re-recorded in 1974 for her Spanish-language album.
1960: Joan Baez Begins Recording Career
Joan Baez starts her recording career in 1960, releasing three successful albums: Joan Baez, Joan Baez, Vol. 2, and Joan Baez in Concert, all of which achieve gold record status.
April 1961: Baez First Meets Bob Dylan at Gerde's Folk City
April 1961 marked a significant meeting in the folk music scene when Joan Baez, already a rising star, met a young Bob Dylan at Gerde's Folk City in New York City's Greenwich Village.
November 11, 1961: Sold-Out Performance at Town Hall
On November 11, 1961, Joan Baez achieved a significant career milestone with a sold-out concert at New York City's Town Hall. This performance received critical acclaim, with The New York Times praising her "superb soprano voice."
1961: Release of "Joan Baez, Vol. 2" and Continued Success
In 1961, Joan Baez released her second album, "Joan Baez, Vol. 2," which achieved gold status, solidifying her rising popularity. This success was followed by two more gold-selling live albums, showcasing her captivating stage presence and expanding repertoire.
November 23, 1962: Time Magazine Cover Feature
On November 23, 1962, Joan Baez was featured on the cover of Time Magazine, a remarkable accomplishment for a musician at that time. This recognition highlighted her growing influence in the American roots revival movement and her role in introducing Bob Dylan to wider audiences.
1962: Release of "Joan Baez in Concert, Part 1"
Joan Baez released "Joan Baez in Concert, Part 1" in 1962, a live album that went gold, further solidifying her position in the folk music scene. The album was unique for featuring new material rather than established favorites.
1963: Release of "Joan Baez in Concert, Part 2" and First Bob Dylan Cover
"Joan Baez in Concert, Part 2," released in 1963, continued Baez's streak of successful live albums, achieving gold status. Notably, this album included her first-ever cover of a Bob Dylan song, marking the beginning of a significant artistic association.
1963: Baez Invites Dylan to Perform with Her at Newport Folk Festival
By 1963, Joan Baez had achieved considerable success with two gold-certified albums. That year, she invited Bob Dylan to share the stage with her at the Newport Folk Festival, a collaboration that marked the beginning of their frequent musical partnerships.
1963: Performance at March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
In 1963, Baez's performance of "We Shall Overcome" at the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom solidified her association with the civil rights anthem.
1963: 16th Street Baptist Church Bombing
The 16th Street Baptist Church bombing, a tragic event that killed four young girls, took place in 1963.
1964: Publicly Endorsed Tax Resistance and Founded Institute for the Study of Nonviolence
As her opposition to the Vietnam War grew, Baez publicly endorsed resisting taxes in 1964 by withholding 60% of her 1963 income taxes. That same year, she and her mentor, Ira Sandperl, founded the Institute for the Study of Nonviolence, which later became the Resource Center for Nonviolence. Baez also encouraged draft resistance during her concerts.
1964: Recording of "Birmingham Sunday"
In 1964, Baez recorded "Birmingham Sunday," a song written by her brother-in-law Richard Fariña.
1965: Baez and Dylan's Relationship Fades
By the time Bob Dylan embarked on his 1965 tour of the UK, his romantic relationship with Joan Baez had begun to dissolve.
1965: Founded Institute for the Study of Non-violence
In 1965, Baez and Ira Sandperl, an anti-war activist whom she had befriended in high school, co-founded the Institute for the Study of Non-violence in Carmel Valley, California.
1965: Announced Plans to Open School for Nonviolent Protest and Participated in Selma to Montgomery marches
In 1965, Baez announced her plan to open a school dedicated to teaching nonviolent protest and participated in the Selma to Montgomery marches for voting rights.
1965: Musical Exploration with "Farewell, Angelina"
In 1965, Joan Baez released "Farewell, Angelina," an album showcasing her musical exploration by incorporating different instruments. The album featured a mix of Bob Dylan songs and traditional folk tunes, further establishing her versatility.
1965: Chart Success with "There but for Fortune"
Joan Baez achieved chart success in 1965 with her cover of Phil Ochs' "There but for Fortune." The song became a hit in the U.S., Canada, and reached the top ten in the United Kingdom, expanding her audience and influence.
1966: Release of Autobiography "Daybreak"
Baez's autobiography, "Daybreak," was released in 1966, providing a detailed account of her life up to that point and outlining her anti-war stance. She dedicated the book to those imprisoned for resisting the draft.
1966: Collaboration with Peter Schickele on "Noël"
Joan Baez collaborated with classical music composer Peter Schickele for her 1966 album "Noël." This Christmas album featured traditional material with classical orchestration, marking a departure from her earlier folk style.
1967: Arrested for Blocking Entrance of Armed Forces Induction Center
In 1967, Baez was arrested twice and jailed for over a month for blocking the entrance of the Armed Forces Induction Center in Oakland, California.
1967: Exploration of Contemporary Composers on "Joan"
In 1967, Joan Baez released "Joan," an album showcasing her interpretations of songs by contemporary composers. The album included works by notable artists such as John Lennon and Paul McCartney, Tim Hardin, Paul Simon, and Donovan, reflecting her evolving musical taste.
1967: Pop Chronicles Interview
Joan Baez participated in a Pop Chronicles interview in 1967.
1967: D.A. Pennebaker's Documentary "Dont Look Back" Captures Baez and Dylan
The complex dynamic between Joan Baez and Bob Dylan was captured in D.A. Pennebaker's 1967 documentary film "Dont Look Back," offering a glimpse into their relationship during Dylan's 1965 tour.
March 26, 1968: Marriage to David Harris
On March 26, 1968, Joan Baez married fellow activist David Harris in New York City, a union reflecting their shared commitment to peace and social justice.
1968: Nashville Recording Sessions and "Any Day Now"
In 1968, Joan Baez traveled to Nashville, Tennessee, resulting in two distinct albums. "Any Day Now" was a tribute to Bob Dylan, consisting entirely of covers of his songs.
1968: Publication of "Daybreak"
Joan Baez published her first memoir, "Daybreak," in 1968, offering insights into her life and career up to that point. The book provided a personal perspective on her music, activism, and the social and political climate of the time.
1968: Concept Album "Baptism: A Journey Through Our Time"
Joan Baez released "Baptism: A Journey Through Our Time" in 1968. This concept album featured readings and songs of poems by celebrated poets like James Joyce, Federico García Lorca, and Walt Whitman, highlighting her artistic depth and social consciousness.
1968: FBI Report Filed
The FBI report alleging an affair between Baez and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. was filed in 1968.
July 16, 1969: David Harris's Imprisonment
David Harris, Joan Baez's husband, was imprisoned on July 16, 1969, for refusing to be drafted into the military, a testament to his pacifist beliefs.
August 1969: Performance at Woodstock
Joan Baez's appearance at the Woodstock festival in August 1969 significantly elevated her international profile. The performance, captured in the documentary film "Woodstock" (1970), showcased her music and activism to a global audience.
December 2, 1969: Birth of Son, Gabriel
Gabriel, Joan Baez and David Harris's son, was born on December 2, 1969, during a period marked by social and political activism.
1969: Joan Baez Performs at Woodstock
In 1969, Joan Baez performed fourteen songs at the legendary Woodstock Festival, a defining moment of the counterculture era.
1969: Release of "David's Album"
Joan Baez released "David's Album" in 1969, dedicated to her husband, David Harris, a prominent anti-Vietnam War activist. The album featured a country music influence, reflecting Harris's musical taste and marking a shift towards more complex sounds in Baez's music.
1970: Release of "Carry It On" Documentary
The documentary film "Carry It On," offering a glimpse into Joan Baez's life and David Harris's anti-war stance, was released in 1970, garnering critical acclaim.
1970: Songwriting Debut and "(I Live) One Day at a Time"
The year 1970 marked a significant development in Joan Baez's career as she began writing her own songs. "(I Live) One Day at a Time" featured two of her original compositions, "Sweet Sir Galahad" and "A Song For David." The former was dedicated to her sister Mimi's second marriage, while the latter was a tribute to her husband, David Harris. The album, like its predecessor, continued to showcase a country music influence.
March 25, 1971: The Story of Bangladesh
On March 25, 1971, the Pakistani army launched a brutal crackdown on unarmed Bengali students at Dhaka University, an event that sparked the Bangladesh Liberation War. This event deeply moved Joan Baez, inspiring her to write "The Story of Bangladesh" in response. The song, later retitled "The Song of Bangladesh," reflected her deep empathy for the plight of the Bangladeshi people and was released in 1972.
1971: Departure from Vanguard Records and "Blessed Are..."
In 1971, after eleven years with Vanguard Records, Joan Baez decided to move on. Her final album with the label, "Blessed Are...," included the top-ten hit "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," a cover of the Band's iconic song. This album marked the end of a significant chapter in her career with Vanguard, the label that launched her to fame in 1960.
1971: Collaboration with Peter Schickele for "Silent Running"
Joan Baez reunited with composer Peter Schickele in 1971 to record two tracks, "Rejoice in the Sun" and "Silent Running" for the science fiction film "Silent Running." Released as a single and later as part of a soundtrack album, this collaboration showcased her versatility in contributing to different artistic mediums.
1972: Peace Delegation to North Vietnam and "Christmas Bombing"
During Christmas 1972, Baez joined a peace delegation that traveled to North Vietnam to deliver Christmas mail to American prisoners of war and address human rights concerns. While there, she was caught in the U.S. military's "Christmas Bombing" of Hanoi, which lasted eleven days.
1972: Release of "To Bobby"
In 1972, Baez released the song "To Bobby," a poignant message urging Bob Dylan to re-engage with political activism.
1972: Release of "The Song of Bangladesh"
In 1972, Joan Baez released "The Song of Bangladesh," a powerful testament to the human cost of the Bangladesh Liberation War. Originally titled "The Story of Bangladesh," the song reflected her profound response to the events of March 25, 1971, when the Pakistani army cracked down on unarmed students.
1972: Signing with A&M Records and "Come from the Shadows"
Joan Baez embarked on a new chapter in her career by signing with A&M Records in 1972. Her first album with the label, "Come from the Shadows," marked a fresh start and the beginning of a four-year, six-album stint.
1973: Release of "Where Are You Now, My Son?"
In 1973, Joan Baez released "Where Are You Now, My Son?" an album featuring a powerful 23-minute title track. The song, a poignant blend of spoken word and recorded sounds, documented her experiences during her visit to Hanoi in December 1972, including the harrowing Christmas Bombings. This album served as a stark reminder of the human cost of war.
1973: Divorce from David Harris
Joan Baez and David Harris made the decision to divorce amicably in 1973 while continuing to co-parent their son, Gabriel.
1974: Baez Releases Spanish-Language Album "Gracias a la Vida"
In 1974, Joan Baez released "Gracias a la Vida," an album sung entirely in Spanish. This album showcased Baez's musical versatility and her commitment to social justice, even across language barriers.
1974: Release of "Gracias a la Vida"
In 1974, Joan Baez released the album "Gracias a la Vida," featuring the title track written by Chilean folk singer Violeta Parra. The album, which also included the song "Cucurrucucú paloma," was a success in both the U.S. and Latin America.
1974: Re-recording of "El Preso Numero Nueve"
In 1974, Joan Baez revisited her musical roots by re-recording "El Preso Numero Nueve" for her Spanish-language album "Gracias a la Vida." This song, originally featured on her 1960 debut album, showcased her versatility in performing in Spanish.
May 1975: Phil Ochs's "The War Is Over" Celebration
Phil Ochs held "The War Is Over" celebration in New York City in May 1975.
1975: Rolling Thunder Revue Tour with Bob Dylan
Joan Baez joined Bob Dylan's Rolling Thunder Revue tour in 1975, marking a significant collaboration in their musical careers.
1976: Release of "Gulf Winds" and "From Every Stage"
In 1976, Baez released two albums: "Gulf Winds," composed entirely of self-written songs, and "From Every Stage," a live album featuring songs from throughout her career.
1977: Signing with CBS Records and Release of "Blowin' Away"
Baez signed with CBS Records and released the album "Blowin' Away" in 1977.
1977: Release of "Altar Boy and the Thief"
In 1977, Baez released the song "Altar Boy and the Thief" on her album "Blowin' Away." The song was dedicated to her gay fanbase.
1978: Support for Gay and Lesbian Rights
Baez became a prominent voice in the fight for gay and lesbian rights in 1978, performing at benefit concerts opposing the Briggs Initiative, which sought to ban openly gay people from teaching in California's public schools. Later that year, she participated in memorial marches for Harvey Milk, the assassinated openly gay San Francisco city supervisor.
1978: Role in "Renaldo and Clara"
Baez starred as 'The Woman in White' in the film "Renaldo and Clara" in 1978, a project directed by Bob Dylan and filmed during the Rolling Thunder Revue.
May 30, 1979: Public Criticism of Vietnamese Government
On May 30, 1979, Baez organized the publication of a full-page advertisement in four major U.S. newspapers criticizing the Vietnamese government for creating a nightmare. Her stance led to a public feud with Jane Fonda, who refused to join her criticism.
1979: Release of "Honest Lullaby"
Joan Baez released the album "Honest Lullaby" in 1979 under CBS Records.
1980: Honorary Doctorates from Antioch and Rutgers
Recognizing her political activism and musical influence, Joan Baez received honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degrees from both Antioch University and Rutgers University in 1980.
1982: Performance at Peace Sunday Anti-Nuke Concert
Baez and Dylan reunited on stage for the Peace Sunday anti-nuke concert in 1982, using their platform to advocate for peace and nuclear disarmament.
1983: Performance at the Grammy Awards
In 1983, Joan Baez performed Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" at the Grammy Awards, marking twenty years since she first performed the song.
1984: Joint Tour with Bob Dylan and Carlos Santana
In 1984, Baez embarked on another tour with Bob Dylan, this time joined by Carlos Santana, further solidifying their musical partnership and shared commitment to social causes.
1984: Release of "Live Europe 83"
In 1984, Joan Baez released the live album "Live Europe 83." The album was released in Europe and Canada, but not commercially in the U.S.
1985: Release of Bob Dylan's "Biograph" Compilation Album
Bob Dylan's compilation album "Biograph" was released in 1985, with liner notes providing some context for his song "To Ramona," potentially inspired by Joan Baez.
1985: Performance at Live Aid
Joan Baez played a significant role in the 1985 Live Aid concert for African famine relief, opening the U.S. portion of the event in Philadelphia.
1986: Participation in Amnesty International's "A Conspiracy of Hope" Tour
Continuing her activism, Baez toured with Amnesty International in 1986 for their "A Conspiracy of Hope" tour, advocating for human rights.
1987: Publication of "And a Voice to Sing With" and Trip to the Middle East
In 1987, Joan Baez released her second autobiography, "And a Voice to Sing With," which became a New York Times bestseller. That same year, she traveled to the Middle East to promote peace through her music for both Israelis and Palestinians.
1987: Publication of Joan Baez's Autobiography "And A Voice To Sing With"
In her 1987 autobiography, "And A Voice To Sing With," Joan Baez shed light on her relationship with Bob Dylan, including how he used to call her "Ramona."
1987: Publication of "And a Voice to Sing With" and Acknowledgment of Steve Jobs
In her 1987 memoir, "And a Voice to Sing With," Joan Baez acknowledged Steve Jobs, indicating their close relationship during the early 1980s.
1987: Signing with Gold Castle Records and Release of "Recently"
Joan Baez signed with Gold Castle Records and released the album "Recently" in 1987. This marked her return to having albums released in the U.S.
May 1989: Performance at Bratislavská lýra and Meeting with Václav Havel
In May 1989, Joan Baez performed at the Bratislavská lýra music festival in Czechoslovakia, where she met future Czech president Václav Havel. During her performance, her microphone was cut off for acknowledging members of the dissident group Charter 77, leading her to sing a cappella to the crowd of nearly four thousand. Havel later credited Baez as an inspiration for the country's Velvet Revolution.
1989: Release of "Speaking of Dreams"
Joan Baez released the album "Speaking of Dreams" in 1989 with Gold Castle Records.
1991: Release of "Brothers in Arms"
Baez released the album "Brothers in Arms" in 1991 under Gold Castle Records.
1992: Protest Against the Execution of Robert Alton Harris
In 1992, Baez performed "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" at a San Quentin vigil protesting the execution of Robert Alton Harris, the first person executed in California after the death penalty was reinstated.
1992: Signing with Virgin Records and Release of "Play Me Backwards"
Signing with Virgin Records, Joan Baez released the album "Play Me Backwards" in 1992. This was shortly before the company was purchased by EMI.
1993: Performance in Sarajevo
At the invitation of Refugees International and sponsored by the Soros Foundation, Joan Baez traveled to war-torn Bosnia and Herzegovina in 1993. Her efforts aimed to bring attention to the suffering caused by the Yugoslav civil war, and she became the first major artist to perform in Sarajevo since the war began.
1995: Signing with Guardian and Release of "Ring Them Bells"
After signing with Guardian, Baez released the live album "Ring Them Bells" in 1995.
1996: Benefit Concert at Alcatraz Island
In 1996, Joan Baez performed another benefit concert, this time at Alcatraz Island in San Francisco, for her sister Mimi's organization, Bread and Roses.
1997: "Birmingham Sunday" Featured in Spike Lee's Documentary
Baez's recording of "Birmingham Sunday" was used in the opening of Spike Lee's 1997 documentary film "4 Little Girls," about the victims of the 1963 16th Street Baptist Church bombing.
1997: Release of "Gone from Danger"
Joan Baez released the studio album "Gone from Danger" with Guardian in 1997.
1998: CD Reissue of "Silent Running" Soundtrack
In 1998, the soundtrack for the film "Silent Running," featuring Joan Baez's collaborations with Peter Schickele, was re-released on CD. This reissue made the music, including the tracks "Rejoice in the Sun" and "Silent Running," available to a new generation of listeners.
1999: Baez and Bonnie Raitt Honor Julia Butterfly Hill on Earth Day
In a show of support for environmental activism, Joan Baez joined Bonnie Raitt on Earth Day 1999 to honor Julia Butterfly Hill. They presented Raitt's Arthur M. Sohcot Award to Hill, who was camped high up in a redwood tree to protest logging in the Headwaters Forest.
August 2001: Re-release of Vanguard Albums
Beginning in August 2001, Vanguard began re-releasing Joan Baez's first 13 albums, originally recorded between 1960 and 1971. These reissues featured restored sound, bonus tracks, and new liner notes.
2001: Joan Baez's Sister Mimi Passes Away
Joan Baez's younger sister, Mimi, passed away in 2001.
2001: Death of Margarita Mimi Baez Fariña
Margarita Mimi Baez Fariña passed away in 2001.
2002: Release of "The Bootleg Series Vol. 5: Bob Dylan Live 1975, The Rolling Thunder Revue"
The album "The Bootleg Series Vol. 5: Bob Dylan Live 1975, The Rolling Thunder Revue," featuring four songs with Baez and Dylan, was released in 2002.
August 2003: Baez Joins Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle for London Concert
Joan Baez joined fellow musicians Emmylou Harris and Steve Earle in London, England, for the Concert For a Landmine-Free World in August 2003.
2003: Baez Performs at Anti-Iraq War Rallies in San Francisco
Early in 2003, Joan Baez participated in two large rallies in San Francisco where hundreds of thousands gathered to protest the impending U.S. invasion of Iraq.
2003: Re-release of A&M Albums
Following the success of her re-released Vanguard albums, Baez's six A&M albums were reissued in 2003.
2003: Judge for the Independent Music Awards and Release of "Dark Chords on a Big Guitar"
In 2003, Joan Baez served as a judge for the third annual Independent Music Awards. That year she also released the album "Dark Chords on a Big Guitar," which featured songs by artists considerably younger than herself.
November 2004: Performance at the Bowery Ballroom
Joan Baez performed at New York City's Bowery Ballroom in November 2004. This performance was recorded and later released as the live album "Bowery Songs."
2004: Baez Encourages Youth Voting on Michael Moore's "Slacker Uprising Tour"
In the summer of 2004 Joan Baez participated in Michael Moore's "Slacker Uprising Tour", visiting college campuses across the US with a message for young people: get out and vote for peace candidates in the upcoming presidential election.
October 1, 2005: Performance at Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival
Joan Baez performed at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass festival in San Francisco's Golden Gate Park on October 1, 2005.
December 2005: Protest Against the Execution of Tookie Williams
Baez sang "Swing Low, Sweet Chariot" at a California protest against the execution of Tookie Williams at San Quentin State Prison in December 2005.
2005: Appearance in "No Direction Home" Documentary
Baez provided insights into her relationship with Bob Dylan for Martin Scorsese's documentary "No Direction Home" in 2005.
2005: Release of "Bowery Songs"
In 2005, Joan Baez released the live album "Bowery Songs," recorded during a performance at New York City's Bowery Ballroom the previous year.
January 13, 2006: Performance at Lou Rawls' Funeral
On January 13, 2006, Joan Baez performed at the funeral of singer Lou Rawls, leading a group in singing "Amazing Grace."
May 23, 2006: Baez Joins "Tree Sit" Protest at South Central Farm in Los Angeles
On May 23, 2006, Joan Baez joined activist Julia Butterfly Hill and others in a "tree sit" protest at the South Central Farm in Los Angeles, California. Their goal was to stop the eviction of farmers and demolition of the farm. Baez showed her support by singing songs from her 1974 Spanish-language album, "Gracias a la Vida."
June 6, 2006: Performance with Bruce Springsteen
Baez joined Bruce Springsteen on stage during his concert in San Francisco on June 6, 2006, where they performed "Pay Me My Money Down."
September 2006: Contribution to Starbucks' XM Artist Confidential Album
Joan Baez contributed a new version of her song "Sweet Sir Galahad" to a Starbucks' XM Artist Confidential album in September 2006, dedicating it to her late sister Mimi.
October 8, 2006: Surprise Performance at Forum 2000
Baez made a surprise appearance at the opening ceremony of the Forum 2000 conference in Prague on October 8, 2006, This was a tribute to former Czech President Václav Havel, a long-time admirer of her work.
December 2, 2006: Guest Appearance with Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir
Joan Baez appeared as a guest at the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir's Christmas Concert on December 2, 2006, performing songs such as "Let Us Break Bread Together" and "Amazing Grace."
February 2007: Re-release of "Ring Them Bells" and Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
February 2007 saw the re-release of Joan Baez's 1995 live album "Ring Them Bells," featuring collaborations with various artists. This edition included previously unreleased tracks. Baez also received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award that month and introduced the Dixie Chicks at the Grammy Awards ceremony.
April 2007: Performance at Lucerna Hall in Prague
In April 2007, Joan Baez performed at the Lucerna Hall in Prague, a venue built by the grandfather of former Czech President Václav Havel.
2007: Baez Receives Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In recognition of her exceptional career and influence on music, Joan Baez was honored with a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007.
February 3, 2008: Baez Publicly Endorses Barack Obama for President
In a departure from her usual stance on party politics, Joan Baez wrote a letter to the editor of the San Francisco Chronicle on February 3, 2008, endorsing Barack Obama for president. This marked the first time in her career that she publicly supported a political candidate.
June 29, 2008: Performance at Glastonbury Festival
On June 29, 2008, Joan Baez performed on the acoustic stage at the Glastonbury Festival, playing to a large crowd.
July 6, 2008: Performance at Montreux Jazz Festival
Joan Baez performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland on July 6, 2008. During the finale, she danced on stage with African percussionists.
September 2008: Release of "Day After Tomorrow"
September 2008 marked the release of Joan Baez's studio album "Day After Tomorrow," produced by Steve Earle. The album was her first to chart in almost three decades.
2008: Baez Receives Spirit of Americana/Free Speech Award
In 2008, the Americana Music Honors & Awards recognized Joan Baez's dedication to activism and free speech by presenting her with the Spirit of Americana/Free Speech Award.
June 25, 2009: Baez Releases "We Shall Overcome" in Support of Iranian Protests
On June 25, 2009, Joan Baez showed her support for peaceful protestors in Iran by creating a special version of "We Shall Overcome" that included Persian lyrics. She shared this version through a video posted on YouTube and her website.
August 2, 2009: 50th Newport Folk Festival Performance
On August 2, 2009, Joan Baez performed at the 50th Newport Folk Festival, marking the 50th anniversary of her breakthrough performance at the festival.
October 14, 2009: American Masters Documentary Release
On October 14, 2009, PBS aired an episode of its documentary series American Masters, entitled "Joan Baez: How Sweet the Sound," directed by Mary Wharton. A DVD and CD of the soundtrack were also released.
2009: American Masters Documentary Features Joan Baez
A 2009 American Masters documentary featured Joan Baez, providing insights into her life and career.
2009: Reunion with David Harris for "American Masters" Documentary
In 2009, Joan Baez and David Harris reunited on camera for the PBS "American Masters" documentary, showcasing their enduring friendship and shared history.
2009: Feature in "How Sweet the Sound" Documentary
The PBS American Masters biography of Baez, "How Sweet the Sound," released in 2009, further explored her life and career, including her connection with Bob Dylan.
February 10, 2010: Baez Performs at the White House for Civil Rights Music Celebration
On February 10, 2010, Joan Baez performed at the White House as part of an event celebrating music from the civil rights movement. Her performance of "We Shall Overcome" was a powerful reminder of her enduring commitment to social justice.
2010: Performance with Granddaughter, Jasmine, at Kidztock
Joan Baez shared the stage with her granddaughter, Jasmine, at the Kidztock music festival in 2010, highlighting the intergenerational aspect of her musical legacy.
March 18, 2011: Baez Receives Inaugural Amnesty International Joan Baez Award
Amnesty International honored Joan Baez's lifelong commitment to human rights on March 18, 2011, by presenting her with the inaugural Amnesty International Joan Baez Award for Outstanding Inspirational Service in the Global Fight for Human Rights.
November 11, 2011: Baez Performs at Occupy Wall Street Protest
On November 11, 2011, Joan Baez showed her solidarity with the Occupy Wall Street movement by performing a three-song set at a protest. Her song choices, including "Joe Hill" and "Salt of the Earth," reflected her longstanding support for social and economic justice.
2011: Performance at Steve Jobs's Memorial
Following Steve Jobs's passing, Joan Baez paid tribute by performing at his memorial service in 2011, a testament to their enduring bond.
April 20, 2013: Death of Joan Chandos Baez
Joan Chandos Baez passed away on April 20, 2013.
2013: Baez Expresses Disappointment in Obama's Presidency
By 2013, Joan Baez publicly expressed some disillusionment with Barack Obama's presidency. While acknowledging his skills and eloquence, she voiced her disappointment in an interview with The Huffington Post.
2013: Joan Baez's Mother Passes Away
Joan Baez's mother passed away in 2013.
2015: Baez and Ai Weiwei Receive Amnesty International Ambassador of Conscience Award
In 2015, Joan Baez and Chinese artist and activist Ai Weiwei were jointly honored with Amnesty International's Ambassador of Conscience Award, acknowledging their courageous work in defending human rights.
2016: Advocacy for the Innocence Project and Innocence Network
In 2016, Baez began advocating for the Innocence Project and Innocence Network, informing audiences at her concerts about the organizations' work to exonerate the wrongfully convicted and reform the justice system.
2016: Death of Pauline Thalia Baez Bryan
Pauline Thalia Baez Bryan passed away in 2016.
April 4, 2017: Release of "Nasty Man"
On April 4, 2017, Joan Baez released "Nasty Man," her first new song in 27 years. The protest song against US President Donald Trump, became a viral hit.
April 7, 2017: Joan Baez Inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
On April 7, 2017, Joan Baez was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying her place as a music icon.
November 2017: FBI Report Alleges Affair with Martin Luther King Jr.
In November 2017, the release of documents from the National Archives related to John F. Kennedy's assassination included a 1968 FBI report alleging an affair between Baez and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. during the 1960s. The accusation was dismissed by history professor Clayborne Carson, director of the Martin Luther King Jr. Research and Education Institute at Stanford University, as a smear campaign against King.
March 2, 2018: Release of "Whistle Down the Wind" and "Fare Thee Well Tour"
On March 2, 2018, Baez released a new studio album entitled "Whistle Down the Wind," which charted in many countries and was nominated for a Grammy. She also undertook her "Fare Thee Well Tour" to support the album.
April 30, 2019: Declined Woodstock 50 Performance
On April 30, 2019, Baez told Rolling Stone that she had declined an offer to perform at the Woodstock 50 festival, citing its complexity and her instincts.
July 21, 2019: Baez Voices Support for Catalan Independence Movement
On July 21, 2019, Joan Baez expressed strong support for the Catalan independence movement, going so far as to call jailed Catalan independence leaders political prisoners.
July 28, 2019: Final Concert in Madrid
On July 28, 2019, after completing tour dates across Europe, Baez performed her final concert at Madrid's Teatro Real.
2019: Joan Baez Retires from Stage and Focuses on Portraiture
Joan Baez retires from performing on stage in 2019 and begins to focus on portraiture.
2020: Kennedy Center Honor Awarded
Joan Baez was awarded a Kennedy Center Honor in 2020.
2020: Baez Elected to American Academy of Arts and Sciences
The American Academy of Arts and Sciences recognized Joan Baez's contributions to both music and activism by electing her to fellowship in 2020.
January 2021: Kennedy Center Honor Announcement
In January 2021, it was announced that Baez would receive a 2020 Kennedy Center Honor, in a ceremony postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
May 2021: Kennedy Center Honor Ceremony
In May 2021, Baez was honored alongside Debbie Allen, Garth Brooks, Midori, and Dick Van Dyke at the Kennedy Center Honor ceremony.
2023: Baez Ranked Among Rolling Stone's 200 Greatest Singers of All Time
In 2023, Rolling Stone magazine included Joan Baez on its prestigious list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time, ranking her at number 189.
2023: Baez Reflects on "Demoralizing" Relationship with Dylan in "I Am a Noise"
In the 2023 documentary "I Am a Noise," Joan Baez candidly discussed her past relationship with Bob Dylan, referring to it as "totally demoralizing." She revealed that, while she has forgiven him, they are no longer in contact.
2023: Release of Documentary "Joan Baez: I Am a Noise"
The documentary "Joan Baez: I Am a Noise" is released in 2023, exploring Joan Baez's life, career, and personal struggles.
February 2024: Baez Receives the Order of the White Double Cross
In February 2024, Zuzana Čaputová awarded Joan Baez with the Third Class of the Order of the White Double Cross.
