History of Joni Mitchell in Timeline
Joni Mitchell is a highly influential Canadian-American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and painter. Known for her deeply personal lyrics and unique musical style blending folk, pop, and jazz, she rose to prominence during the 1960s folk music era. Her immense contributions to music have earned her numerous awards, including eleven Grammy Awards and a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Mitchell is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, with AllMusic recognizing her as potentially the most significant female recording artist of the late 20th century.
November 7, 1943: Birth of Joni Mitchell
On November 7, 1943, Roberta Joan "Joni" Mitchell was born. She would later become a celebrated singer-songwriter.
October 31, 1962: Joni Mitchell's First Paid Performance
On October 31, 1962, Joni Mitchell had her first paid performance at a club in Saskatoon, marking the beginning of her professional music career.
1963: Joni Mitchell Attends Alberta College of Art
Joni Mitchell pursued her interest in art by attending the Alberta College of Art in Calgary for the 1963-64 school year.
1964: Joni Mitchell Moves to Toronto to Pursue Music
In 1964, Joni Mitchell made a pivotal decision to move to Toronto and pursue a career as a folk singer, marking a turning point in her life.
1964: Joni Mitchell Discovers Pregnancy
In late 1964, Joni Mitchell discovered she was pregnant by her ex-boyfriend Brad MacMath, a challenging experience that influenced her songwriting.
February 1965: Early Gigs and Original Material
A few weeks after giving birth to her daughter in February 1965, Mitchell returned to performing in Yorkville, often with her friend Vicky Taylor. This marked the beginning of her journey into singing original material, exploring unique open tunings on her guitar.
February 1965: Birth of Joni Mitchell's Daughter
Joni Mitchell gave birth to her daughter, Kelly Dale Anderson, in February 1965. She later placed her for adoption.
April 1965: Move to the United States
In April 1965, at the age of 21, Joni Mitchell left Canada for the first time to pursue musical opportunities in the United States alongside Chuck Mitchell.
June 1965: Marriage to Chuck Mitchell
Joni Mitchell married Chuck Mitchell in June 1965 in his hometown, marking the beginning of their personal and musical partnership. She made her own dress and the bridesmaids' dresses due to their financial constraints.
1965: Detroit Performances and Musical Exploration
During 1965, Joni and Chuck Mitchell were regulars in the Detroit coffee house scene. They performed at venues such as the Chess Mate, the Alcove bar, the Rathskeller, and the Raven Gallery. This period saw Mitchell experimenting with alternative guitar tunings, influenced by fellow musician Eric Andersen.
1965: Joni Mitchell Begins Touring in the United States
Joni Mitchell began touring in the United States in 1965, marking a significant step in her growing music career.
1966: Early Harmonic Innovation
From 1966 to 1972, Joni Mitchell's early work showcased significant harmonic innovation, incorporating modality, chromaticism, and pedal points.
1966: Canadian Television Appearances
Joni Mitchell gained exposure in 1965 and 1966 through several appearances on the CBC television program "Let's Sing Out," hosted by Oscar Brand.
1967: Early Success of Mitchell's Songwriting
By 1967, Joni Mitchell's talent as a songwriter was gaining recognition. Other artists, including Tom Rush, Judy Collins, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Dave Van Ronk, and George Hamilton IV, began covering her songs, contributing to her growing reputation in the folk music scene. Notably, Judy Collins's rendition of "Both Sides Now" became a top ten hit.
1967: Discovery and Move to Los Angeles
David Crosby's encounter with Joni Mitchell's performance at the Gaslight South club in Coconut Grove, Florida, in 1967 proved pivotal. Impressed by her talent, Crosby facilitated her introduction to the Los Angeles music scene, leading to her management by Elliot Roberts and, eventually, her signing with Reprise Records.
1967: Judy Collins's Cover of "Both Sides, Now" Brings Recognition
In 1967, Judy Collins's rendition of Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides, Now" reached number eight on the Billboard charts, marking a turning point in both artists' careers. Notably, Mitchell's own version wasn't released until two years later.
1967: Divorce and Move to New York City
Joni and Chuck Mitchell's marriage ended in early 1967. Following their separation, Mitchell relocated to New York City, marking a pivotal step in her journey as a solo artist. She played various venues along the East Coast, solidifying her reputation for unique songwriting and innovative guitar techniques.
March 1968: Debut Album Release
Joni Mitchell's debut album, "Joni Mitchell" or "Song to a Seagull", was released in March 1968 under the Reprise label. The album, produced by David Crosby, showcased her solo acoustic sound, a departure from the prevalent folk-rock style.
1968: Joni Mitchell Releases Debut Album
In 1968, Joni Mitchell released her debut album, "Song to a Seagull," with Reprise Records, launching her successful career in the music industry.
1968: Harmonic Exploration on Debut Album
Joni Mitchell's debut album, 'Song to a Seagull,' released in 1968, featured her use of quartal and quintal harmony.
April 1969: Release of Second Album, "Clouds"
Joni Mitchell's second album, "Clouds", was released in April 1969. The album, featuring her own renditions of songs previously covered by other artists, further solidified her presence in the folk music scene. Notably, the album cover, like her debut album, showcased Mitchell's artistic talent as she designed and painted it herself.
1969: Joni Mitchell Wins First Grammy Award
Joni Mitchell earned her first Grammy Award in 1969, marking the start of a highly decorated career.
March 1970: Grammy Award and Continued Success
In March 1970, Joni Mitchell's talent earned her a Grammy Award for Best Folk Performance for her album "Clouds."
1970: Performance at the Isle of Wight Festival
In 1970, Joni Mitchell performed at the Isle of Wight Festival, a significant musical event. This performance was later featured in the 2018 documentary "Both Sides Now."
1970: Critical Acclaim and Decision to Stop Touring
Joni Mitchell's album "Ladies of the Canyon" achieved gold certification, marking her first album to reach this milestone. Despite her decision to take a year off from touring to focus on writing and painting, she was honored as the "Top Female Performer" of 1970 by Melody Maker, a testament to her impact on the music scene.
1970: Neighborhood's Cover of "Big Yellow Taxi" Becomes a Hit
The year 1970 saw the pop group Neighborhood release a successful cover of Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi."
April 1971: Collaboration with James Taylor
Joni Mitchell provided backing vocals for James Taylor's song "You've Got a Friend," featured on his album "Mud Slide Slim and the Blue Horizon," released in April 1971.
June 1971: Release of "Blue"
June 1971 saw the release of Joni Mitchell's highly acclaimed album, "Blue." The album, a reflection of her personal experiences and songwriting prowess, received critical acclaim and solidified her status as a significant singer-songwriter.
1971: Release of "Blue"
Joni Mitchell released her critically acclaimed album "Blue" in 1971, an album that would go on to be considered one of the greatest of all time.
1971: Release of "Little Green"
Joni Mitchell released the song "Little Green" on her 1971 album "Blue," a song that alluded to her experience of placing her daughter for adoption.
October 1972: Release of "For the Roses"
Joni Mitchell's fifth album, "For the Roses", hit the shelves in October 1972 and quickly climbed the charts. This marked her return to live performances after a period of creative exploration.
1972: Early Harmonic Innovation
From 1966 to 1972, Joni Mitchell's early work showcased significant harmonic innovation, incorporating modality, chromaticism, and pedal points.
February 1973: Chart Success with "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio"
February 1973 saw Joni Mitchell's single "You Turn Me On, I'm a Radio" reach its peak position of No. 25 on the Billboard charts, further solidifying her presence in the mainstream music scene.
1973: Mainstream Success and Chart-topping Hits
Joni Mitchell experienced a surge in popularity in 1973 with the release of singles like "Raised on Robbery" and "Help Me." Notably, "Help Me" reached No. 7 on the charts in June 1974, making it her only Top 10 single. The success of these songs, alongside the popularity of "Free Man in Paris," solidified her place as a major musical figure.
January 1974: Release of "Court and Spark"
In January 1974, Joni Mitchell released "Court and Spark," an album that marked a turning point in her career by incorporating elements of jazz and jazz fusion, foreshadowing her exploration of these genres in the years to come. The album's success, reaching No. 1 on the Cashbox Album Charts, contributed to her widespread popularity.
February 1974: Court and Spark Tour Begins
In February 1974, Joni Mitchell embarked on a tour to promote her album "Court and Spark", receiving rave reviews for her performances with the jazz/pop fusion band, the L.A. Express.
1974: Release of "Court and Spark"
Joni Mitchell released "Court and Spark" in 1974, an album that showcased her exploration of jazz influences and achieved significant commercial success.
1974: Revival of "Jericho"
Joni Mitchell revisited and recorded her song "Jericho" in a studio setting for her album "Don Juan's Reckless Daughter". A live version of the song had previously been released on her 1974 live album.
January 1975: Grammy Award Nominations and Win
In January 1975, Joni Mitchell's album "Court and Spark" received four Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year, making her the only woman nominated in that category that year. She won the award for Best Arrangement, Instrumental and Vocals.
November 1975: Release of "The Hissing of Summer Lawns"
Joni Mitchell's album, "The Hissing of Summer Lawns", was released in November 1975. This album showcased her evolving musical style with jazz-inspired pieces and a wider range of instruments. Notably, the song "The Jungle Line" featured her early experimentations with sampling recordings of African musicians.
1975: Joni Mitchell's Vocal Range Shift
Around 1975, Joni Mitchell's vocal range transitioned from mezzo-soprano to a wider-ranging contralto, further showcasing her vocal versatility.
1975: Rolling Thunder Revue Performances
Throughout 1975, Joni Mitchell participated in several concerts as part of the Rolling Thunder Revue tours, which featured notable musicians such as Bob Dylan and Joan Baez.
January 1976: Grammy Award Nomination for "The Hissing of Summer Lawns"
In January 1976, Joni Mitchell received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for her album "The Hissing of Summer Lawns".
1976: Release of "Hejira"
Joni Mitchell released her album "Hejira" in 1976. Inspired by a cross-country road trip, the album had a unique sound with no piano songs and notable collaborations with jazz bassist Jaco Pastorius. Despite its experimental nature, it reached No. 13 on the Billboard charts.
1976: Release of "Hejira"
In 1976, Joni Mitchell released the album "Hejira." This album, significant in her discography, later became a reference point for her chart success with the release of "Shine" in 2007.
December 1977: Release of "Don Juan's Reckless Daughter" and Controversy
Joni Mitchell's album, "Don Juan's Reckless Daughter", was released in December 1977. The album cover, featuring Mitchell in blackface as a character she called Art Nouveau, sparked controversy. Mitchell stated that the character was inspired by a pimp who complimented her and symbolized her turn towards jazz and streetwise lyrics.
1977: Recording of "Don Juan's Reckless Daughter"
In 1977, Joni Mitchell began working on her first double studio album, "Don Juan's Reckless Daughter". Feeling a sense of freedom towards the end of her contract with Asylum Records, Mitchell took a more improvisational approach to the album, collaborating with jazz musicians such as Jaco Pastorius, Don Alias, and Wayne Shorter.
June 1979: Release of "Mingus"
Joni Mitchell's collaborative album with jazz legend Charles Mingus, titled "Mingus", was released in June 1979 after Mingus's death. The album marked a significant departure from her previous work, incorporating strong jazz influences, which confused fans and received mixed reviews.
August 1979: Mingus Tour Begins
Joni Mitchell kicked off a tour to promote her album "Mingus" in August 1979 in Oklahoma City. The tour featured a band that included jazz musicians such as Jaco Pastorius and Pat Metheny.
1979: Jacques Benoit Begins Painting Series Inspired by Joni Mitchell's Music
From 1979 to 1989, French painter Jacques Benoit created a series of sixty paintings inspired by a selection of fifty songs from Joni Mitchell's discography.
September 1980: Release of "Shadows and Light"
Joni Mitchell's second live double album, "Shadows and Light", recorded during her "Mingus" tour, was released in September 1980. The album included performances from the Santa Barbara County Bowl show and marked her final release with Asylum Records.
1981: Joni Mitchell Inducted into Canadian Music Hall of Fame
Mitchell's significant contributions to music were honored in 1981 when she was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.
1982: Return to Pop and Marriage
In 1982, Joni Mitchell released her album "Wild Things Run Fast," marking a return to pop songwriting. The album featured tracks like "Chinese Cafe/Unchained Melody" and "(You're So Square) Baby I Don't Care." This period also saw Mitchell marrying bassist and sound engineer Larry Klein.
1982: Release of "Chinese Cafe"
In 1982, Joni Mitchell released the song "Chinese Cafe" on her album "Wild Things Run Fast," which contained lyrics hinting at her experience of adoption.
1983: "Refuge" World Tour
Joni Mitchell embarked on her "Refuge" world tour in 1983, performing in countries across Asia, Oceania, Europe, and North America. A performance from the tour was later released on video as "Refuge of the Roads."
1984: Collaboration with Thomas Dolby
Towards the end of 1984, as Mitchell was working on new music, she began collaborating with British synthpop musician Thomas Dolby. Dolby assisted with synthesizers and production on her upcoming album.
October 1985: Release of "Dog Eat Dog" and Controversy
October 1985 saw the release of Mitchell's album "Dog Eat Dog." The album received a lukewarm reception commercially and sparked controversy with the song "Tax Free," which criticized televangelists and the rise of the religious right in American politics.
1988: Experimentation and Collaborations on "Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm"
Joni Mitchell released "Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm" in 1988. The album showcased her continued experimentation with synthesizers and featured collaborations with artists like Willie Nelson, Billy Idol, Wendy & Lisa, Tom Petty, Don Henley, Peter Gabriel, and Benjamin Orr.
1989: Jacques Benoit Completes Decade-Long Painting Series
After a decade, Jacques Benoit completed his series of sixty paintings inspired by Joni Mitchell's music in 1989.
1990: Performance at Roger Waters' The Wall Concert
In a rare live performance, Joni Mitchell participated in Roger Waters' The Wall Concert in Berlin in 1990. She performed "Goodbye Blue Sky" and joined the ensemble for the finale, "The Tide Is Turning."
1990: Recording "Night Ride Home"
Throughout the first half of 1990, Joni Mitchell dedicated her time to recording songs for her upcoming album, "Night Ride Home." She finalized the album's mixes just before Christmas, experimenting with various song sequences.
March 1991: Release of "Night Ride Home"
March 1991 marked the release of Joni Mitchell's album "Night Ride Home." The album was lauded by critics and performed well commercially, signaling a return to form for Mitchell.
1991: Hole Covers "Both Sides, Now"
The band Hole, led by Courtney Love, covered "Both Sides, Now" on their 1991 album, "Pretty on the Inside," renaming it "Clouds" and modifying the lyrics.
1993: Joni Mitchell Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from Saskatchewan Recording Industry Association
In 1993, the Saskatchewan Recording Industry Association honored Joni Mitchell with their Lifetime Achievement Award.
1993: Story of Joni Mitchell's Adoption Becomes Public
The story of Joni Mitchell placing her daughter for adoption became public in 1993, adding a new layer of public interest to her life and career.
1994: Grammy Win for "Turbulent Indigo"
Joni Mitchell's album "Turbulent Indigo" won a Grammy Award in 1994. The album's creation coincided with the end of Mitchell's 12-year marriage to musician Larry Klein, who also co-produced the record.
1995: Amy Grant Covers "Big Yellow Taxi"
Amy Grant's rendition of "Big Yellow Taxi" in 1995 added to the song's legacy of covers.
1995: Custom Guitar with Roland VG-8
In 1995, to address the challenges of using multiple alternative tunings live, Joni Mitchell began using a custom Stratocaster-style guitar designed to work with the Roland VG-8 virtual guitar.
1995: Joni Mitchell Receives Billboard's Century Award
Joni Mitchell's contributions to the music industry were acknowledged in 1995 when she was presented with Billboard's Century Award.
1996: Release of "Hits" and "Misses"
In 1996, Joni Mitchell released a greatest hits compilation titled "Hits" and a companion album, "Misses," featuring lesser-known songs from her career. "Hits" included her first recording of "Urge for Going."
1996: Joni Mitchell Awarded the Polar Music Prize
Joni Mitchell was among the recipients of the prestigious Polar Music Prize in 1996, recognizing her exceptional achievements in music.
1996: Joni Mitchell Receives Governor General's Performing Arts Award
Joni Mitchell was honored with the Governor General's Performing Arts Award in 1996, recognizing her lifetime achievements in the arts. This is the highest honor in the performing arts in Canada.
1996: Sarah McLachlan Covers "Blue"
Years before her cover of "River," Sarah McLachlan released her interpretation of "Blue" in 1996.
1997: Joni Mitchell Reunites with Her Daughter
Joni Mitchell reunited with her daughter, Kilauren Gibb, in 1997, marking a significant personal event in her life.
1997: Joni Mitchell Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Joni Mitchell achieved a significant career milestone in 1997 when she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. However, she chose not to attend the induction ceremony.
1997: Janet Jackson Samples "Big Yellow Taxi"
Janet Jackson's 1997 hit "Got 'Til It's Gone" incorporated a sample from the chorus of Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi." The song also featured rapper Q-Tip praising Mitchell with the line "Joni Mitchell never lies."
1997: Joni Mitchell Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 1997, Joni Mitchell was recognized for her significant contributions to music with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
1998: Autobiography in Progress
In 1998, Joni Mitchell revealed that she was working on her autobiography, which she anticipated would span four volumes. She shared an intriguing detail, stating that the opening line would be "I was the only black man at the party."
1998: Release of "Taming the Tiger" and Return to Touring
Joni Mitchell released "Taming the Tiger" in 1998, marking her last album of original material for nearly a decade. She promoted the album with a return to regular touring, including a co-headlining tour with Bob Dylan and Van Morrison.
1999: Dianne Reeves Covers "River"
In 1999, Dianne Reeves released her rendition of Joni Mitchell's "River."
April 6, 2000: All-star tribute concert for Joni Mitchell
On April 6, 2000, the TNT network presented an all-star tribute concert for Joni Mitchell at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City. The event featured performances of Mitchell's songs by renowned artists such as James Taylor, Elton John, Wynonna Judd, Bryan Adams, Cyndi Lauper, Diana Krall, and Richard Thompson. Mitchell herself concluded the evening with a performance of "Both Sides, Now," accompanied by a 70-piece orchestra.
2000: James Taylor Records "River"
James Taylor recorded his version of "River" in 2000, releasing it for television broadcast that year and later on CD in 2004.
2000: Release of "Both Sides Now"
Joni Mitchell released "Both Sides Now" in 2000. The album largely comprised jazz standards, showcasing her adapted vocal style in a lower register. It included reinterpretations of her earlier songs "A Case of You" and "Both Sides, Now."
2000: Joni Mitchell Receives Star on Canada's Walk of Fame
The year 2000 saw Joni Mitchell receive a star on Canada's Walk of Fame, further solidifying her place in Canadian entertainment history.
2001: Release of Dylan's "Love and Theft" and Plagiarism Allegations
Bob Dylan's album "Love and Theft" was released in 2001. The album later faced allegations of plagiarism, which resurfaced in the context of Joni Mitchell's remarks about Dylan in 2010 and her subsequent clarification in 2013.
2002: Joni Mitchell Appointed Companion of the Order of Canada
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to music and Canadian culture, Joni Mitchell was named a Companion of the Order of Canada in 2002. This prestigious honor is considered Canada's highest civilian award.
2002: Joni Mitchell Receives Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In recognition of her significant impact on the music industry, Joni Mitchell was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002. The citation praised her as "one of the most important female recording artists of the rock era" and highlighted her influence on artists who value "diversity, imagination and integrity."
2002: Counting Crows Cover "Big Yellow Taxi"
Adding to a string of covers, Counting Crows released their version of "Big Yellow Taxi" in 2002.
2002: Joni Mitchell Receives Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In recognition of her lasting impact on the music industry, Joni Mitchell was honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002.
2002: Discontent with the Music Industry
In 2002, Joni Mitchell expressed her dissatisfaction with the music industry, calling it a "cesspool" and criticizing the industry's control over artists. She shared her desire to explore alternative ways to release her music, potentially through the internet.
2002: Release of "Travelogue"
In 2002, Mitchell released "Travelogue," an album featuring orchestral reworkings of her previous songs. The project further explored the possibilities of her altered vocal range.
2003: Release of "The Complete Geffen Recordings"
Joni Mitchell released "The Complete Geffen Recordings", a four-disc box set, in 2003. This remastered collection encompassed her work with Geffen Records and included liner notes by Mitchell and three previously unreleased tracks.
2003: Bryden MacDonald Premieres Joni Mitchell Musical
Playwright Bryden MacDonald debuted his musical, "When All the Slaves Are Free," in 2003, showcasing a revue based on Joni Mitchell's music.
2003: Ranked Among Rolling Stone's Greatest Guitarists
Rolling Stone named Joni Mitchell the 72nd-greatest guitarist of all time in 2003, the highest-ranking woman on the list.
2003: Mandy Moore Covers "Help Me"
Singer Mandy Moore released her take on Mitchell's song "Help Me" in 2003.
2004: A Perfect Circle Covers "The Fiddle and the Drum"
A Perfect Circle, a band featuring Maynard James Keenan, who has cited Mitchell as an influence, released their take on "The Fiddle and the Drum" on their 2004 album "eMOTIVe." The album was a collection of anti-war cover songs.
2004: Joni Mitchell Receives Honorary Doctorate from McGill University
Adding to her academic accolades, Joni Mitchell received an honorary doctorate in music from McGill University in 2004, acknowledging her lasting impact on the world of music.
2004: George Michael Covers "Edith and the Kingpin"
George Michael recorded a cover of Mitchell's "Edith and the Kingpin" for a radio broadcast in 2004.
2004: Mitchell Addresses Vocal Changes
In 2004, Joni Mitchell publicly addressed the noticeable changes in her singing voice, attributing them to factors like vocal nodules, a compressed larynx, and the aftereffects of polio, rather than smoking.
2004: Release of Themed Compilations
Joni Mitchell released two themed compilation albums in 2004: "The Beginning of Survival" and "Dreamland." These albums featured songs from her earlier works, showcasing different aspects of her musical journey.
2005: Recording Memories for Autobiography
Joni Mitchell shared in 2005 that she was using a tape recorder to capture her memories, embracing an oral tradition approach for her autobiography. This method suggested her desire to preserve the authenticity and nuances of her life experiences.
2005: Aimee Mann Covers "River"
Aimee Mann added her voice to the numerous covers of "River" with her version released in 2005.
2005: Release of "Songs of a Prairie Girl"
In 2005, Joni Mitchell released "Songs of a Prairie Girl," a compilation album that reflected her Canadian upbringing. The album's release coincided with her acceptance of an invitation to the Saskatchewan Centennial concert, a tribute event she dedicated the album to.
October 2006: Announcing New Album: "Shine"
In October 2006, Joni Mitchell revealed she was working on a new album titled "Shine." The album, inspired by the Iraq War and a comment from her grandson, was described as having a minimal feel reminiscent of her earlier works and focusing on political and environmental themes.
2006: Speculation about Dylan's "Modern Times" Lyrics
Bob Dylan released the album "Modern Times" in 2006. The album later became the subject of speculation regarding alleged plagiarism in some of its lyrics, potentially connecting to Joni Mitchell's controversial remarks about Dylan in 2010.
2006: Life Between Los Angeles and British Columbia
In 2006, Joni Mitchell revealed that she splits her time between her home in Los Angeles, which she considers her workplace, and her property in Sechelt, British Columbia, a place close to her heart.
2006: Reflection on "Hejira"
In 2006, Joni Mitchell spoke about her album "Hejira", believing it to be unique and deeply personal, stating that while others could have written many of her songs, those on "Hejira" could have only come from her.
2006: Sarah McLachlan Covers "River"
Sarah McLachlan, who had covered "Blue" in 1996, released a rendition of "River" in 2006.
January 2007: Joni Mitchell Inducted into Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame
In January 2007, Joni Mitchell received recognition for her songwriting prowess with an induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.
February 2007: Collaboration with Alberta Ballet Company
Joni Mitchell collaborated with the Alberta Ballet Company in February 2007, serving as an advisor for the premiere of "The Fiddle and the Drum." This dance performance, choreographed by Jean Grand-Maître, incorporated both new and old songs by Mitchell.
June 2007: Joni Mitchell Featured on Canadian Postage Stamp
Joni Mitchell's cultural impact was celebrated in June 2007 when Canada Post featured her image on a postage stamp.
September 25, 2007: Release of "Shine" and Herbie Hancock's Tribute Album
Joni Mitchell's album "Shine" was released on September 25, 2007, marking her highest chart position in the United States since 1976. Coincidentally, Herbie Hancock, a longtime friend, released "River: The Joni Letters," a tribute album featuring various artists, including Mitchell herself.
2007: Nena Releases Rendition of "Big Yellow Taxi"
German singer Nena put out her interpretation of Mitchell's "Big Yellow Taxi" in 2007.
2007: Release of Joni Mitchell's Final Album of Original Songs
Joni Mitchell released her 19th and final album of original songs in 2007, marking the end of a significant chapter in her musical career.
2007: Re-release of "Big Yellow Taxi"
Joni Mitchell re-released a new version of her hit song "Big Yellow Taxi" in 2007.
2007: "A Tribute to Joni Mitchell" Compilation Released
A tribute album dedicated to Joni Mitchell, featuring renowned artists such as Björk, Caetano Veloso, Emmylou Harris, Sufjan Stevens, and Cassandra Wilson, was released in 2007. Among the notable tracks was Prince's rendition of "A Case of U."
February 10, 2008: Grammy Awards Recognition
On February 10, 2008, Herbie Hancock's tribute album, "River: The Joni Letters," won Album of the Year at the Grammy Awards. Joni Mitchell also received a Grammy for Best Instrumental Pop Performance for "One Week Last Summer" from her album "Shine."
2008: Cat Power Covers "Blue"
Cat Power recorded and released a cover of Joni Mitchell's "Blue" in 2008.
2008: Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Singers" List
In 2008, Joni Mitchell earned recognition for her vocal prowess by being ranked 42nd on Rolling Stone's esteemed "100 Greatest Singers" list.
2009: Stepping Back from Music and Advocacy for Morgellons
In 2009, Joni Mitchell announced that she had Morgellons, a skin condition, and decided to step away from music to advocate for those suffering from the condition. This decision marked a significant shift in her career and personal life.
2009: Nick Vernier Band Releases 40th Anniversary Version of "Woodstock"
The Nick Vernier Band, featuring former Matthews Southern Comfort member Ian Matthews, released a special 40th anniversary rendition of Mitchell's "Woodstock" in 2009.
February 12, 2010: "Both Sides, Now" Performed at the 2010 Winter Olympics
On February 12, 2010, Joni Mitchell's iconic song "Both Sides, Now" was performed at the opening ceremony of the 2010 Winter Olympics held in Vancouver, Canada.
2010: Controversial Remarks about Bob Dylan
In 2010, Joni Mitchell made controversial remarks about Bob Dylan, calling him a fake and a plagiarist. While she didn't elaborate on the specifics, the statement sparked widespread media attention and speculation about its connection to plagiarism allegations surrounding some of Dylan's work.
2011: Shifting Focus to Visual Art
Joni Mitchell shared that since 2011 she has been primarily focused on visual art. She doesn't sell her artwork and only displays it on rare occasions, suggesting a more personal and less commercial approach to this creative outlet.
2012: John Mayer and Taylor Swift Reference Joni Mitchell in Songs
Both John Mayer and Taylor Swift referenced Joni Mitchell in their 2012 albums. Mayer's "Queen of California" mentioned Mitchell and her "Blue" album, while Swift's "The Lucky One" alluded to Mitchell's departure from the music industry.
2013: "River" Becomes Popular Choice for Holiday Albums
By 2013, Mitchell's song "River" had become a favorite for holiday albums, with numerous artists recording their own versions.
2013: Addressing Dylan Remarks and Plagiarism
In a 2013 interview, Joni Mitchell addressed her previous controversial remarks about Bob Dylan. While denying the specific statement, she mentioned the plagiarism allegations surrounding Dylan's 2001 album "Love and Theft," placing the discussion in the context of artistic creation.
2013: Joni Mitchell Rejects Feminist Label
In a 2013 interview, Joni Mitchell expressed her views on feminism, rejecting the label and stating, "I'm not a feminist. I don't want to get a posse against men. I'd rather go toe-to-toe; work it out." This sparked discussions about her stance on gender equality in the music industry.
2013: Joni Mitchell's 70th Birthday Tribute Concerts
In celebration of Joni Mitchell's 70th birthday in 2013, the Luminato Festival in Toronto, Canada, organized a series of tribute concerts titled "Joni: A Portrait in Song – A Birthday Happening Live at Massey Hall" on June 18 and 19. The concerts featured performances by renowned artists such as Rufus Wainwright, Herbie Hancock, Esperanza Spalding, and even included rare appearances by Mitchell herself.
March 2015: Brain Aneurysm and Recovery
In March 2015, Joni Mitchell suffered a brain aneurysm, a serious health challenge that led her to undergo physical therapy and rehabilitation. This event marked a period of recovery and resilience in her life.
May 2015: Joni Mitchell Receives SFJAZZ Lifetime Achievement Award
In May 2015, Joni Mitchell was honored with the SFJAZZ Lifetime Achievement Award, a testament to her significant contributions to jazz music. However, due to health issues, Mitchell was unable to attend the award ceremony in San Francisco.
2015: Joni Mitchell Suffers Brain Aneurysm
In 2015, Joni Mitchell suffered a brain aneurysm, leading to a long and challenging period of recovery and therapy.
2015: Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time"
Joni Mitchell's exceptional songwriting talents were acknowledged in 2015 when she secured the ninth spot on Rolling Stone's prestigious list of the "100 Greatest Songwriters of All Time."
2015: Aneurysm
Joni Mitchell suffered a serious aneurysm in 2015, which impacted her health and ability to perform.
August 2016: Public Appearance After Aneurysm
Joni Mitchell made her first public appearance following her brain aneurysm in August 2016, attending a Chick Corea concert in Los Angeles. This appearance signaled her gradual return to public life.
2017: "Joni Jams" Begin
In 2017, Joni Mitchell began hosting monthly music sessions at her home, known as "Joni Jams," which played a role in her recovery and return to music.
September 2018: Release of "Both Sides Now: Live at the Isle of Wight Festival 1970"
Eagle Rock Entertainment released the documentary "Both Sides Now: Live at the Isle of Wight Festival 1970" in September 2018. The film, directed by Murray Lerner, features restored footage of Mitchell's performance at the festival and new interviews.
November 2, 2018: Vinyl Reissue of "Love Has Many Faces"
Joni Mitchell released an 8-LP vinyl reissue of "Love Has Many Faces: A Quartet, A Ballet, Waiting to Be Danced" on November 2, 2018. This reissue provided fans with a new opportunity to experience this particular compilation of her work.
November 7, 2018: Joni 75: A Birthday Celebration Concert
Joni Mitchell attended "Joni 75: A Birthday Celebration Concert" in Los Angeles on November 7, 2018, an event honoring her 75th birthday. The concert featured various artists performing her songs, showcasing her influence and impact on the music world.
November 2018: Progress in Recovery: Learning to Walk Again
In November 2018, David Crosby shared that Joni Mitchell was making progress in her recovery from the brain aneurysm, learning to walk again. This update offered hope and highlighted her determination.
2018: Joni Mitchell Honored by the City of Saskatoon
The city of Saskatoon paid tribute to Joni Mitchell's musical legacy in 2018 by installing two plaques in her honor. One plaque was placed near the former Louis Riel Coffee House, where Mitchell performed her first paid gig, and another at River Landing, a cultural hub in the city. Additionally, the walkway along Spadina Crescent was officially named the Joni Mitchell Promenade.
January 2019: Limited-Edition Blue Vinyl of "Blue"
A limited-edition blue vinyl edition of Joni Mitchell's album "Blue" was released in January 2019, offering a collectible item for fans and showcasing the enduring popularity of this iconic album.
April 2019: Release of "Joni 75: A Birthday Celebration" Recordings and Brandi Carlile's Tribute
Recordings from "Joni 75: A Birthday Celebration Concert" were released on DVD and CD in April 2019. Additionally, Brandi Carlile, who participated in the concert, performed Joni Mitchell's "Blue" album in its entirety at a separate tribute concert, "Songs Are Like Tattoos."
October 22, 2019: Morning Glory on the Vine Expanded and Reformatted
On October 22, 2019, an expanded and reformatted wide-release edition of Joni Mitchell's 'Morning Glory on the Vine' was published. It was originally compiled in 1971 as a gift for friends and family.
September 2020: Joni Mitchell Archives Announced
Joni Mitchell and Rhino Records announced the creation of the Joni Mitchell Archives, a series of catalog releases, in September 2020.
October 30, 2020: Joni Mitchell Archives – Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963–1967) Released
The first release from the Joni Mitchell Archives, 'Joni Mitchell Archives – Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963–1967),' a five-disc collection, was released on October 30, 2020.
2020: Joni Mitchell Receives the Les Paul Award
Breaking new ground, Joni Mitchell became the first woman to receive the prestigious Les Paul Award in 2020, recognizing her innovation and impact on the music industry.
July 2, 2021: The Reprise Albums (1968–1971) Released
A remastered collection of Mitchell's first four albums, 'The Reprise Albums (1968–1971),' was released on July 2, 2021, featuring a new mix of her debut album.
December 4, 2021: Joni Mitchell Receives Kennedy Center Honor
In a testament to her lifelong achievements in the performing arts, Joni Mitchell was bestowed with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honor on December 4, 2021. The ceremony took place at the Library of Congress in Washington, D.C., where Mitchell was recognized for her profound impact on music and culture.
2021: Joni Mitchell Nominated for Grammy Award for Best Historical Album
Joni Mitchell received a Grammy Award nomination in 2021 for Best Historical Album, recognizing her impactful early recordings compiled in "Archives, Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963–1967)."
2021: Joni Mitchell Returns to Public Appearances
Joni Mitchell returned to public appearances in 2021 after a period of recovery, accepting prestigious awards such as a Kennedy Center Honor.
January 28, 2022: Joni Mitchell Pulls Music From Spotify
On January 28, 2022, Joni Mitchell removed her music from Spotify in protest of COVID-19 misinformation on the platform, standing in solidarity with Neil Young.
April 1, 2022: MusiCares Person of the Year
Joni Mitchell was honored as the 2022 MusiCares Person of the Year by the Recording Academy on April 1, 2022.
April 3, 2022: Joni Mitchell Wins Grammy Award for Best Historical Album
Joni Mitchell's musical legacy was further solidified on April 3, 2022, when she won the Grammy Award for Best Historical Album for her comprehensive collection, "Archives, Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963–1967)."
April 2022: Grammy Award for Best Historical Album
Joni Mitchell received a Grammy Award for 'Best Historical Album' for 'Joni Mitchell Archives – Vol. 1: The Early Years (1963–1967)' in April 2022.
June 2022: Joni Mitchell's Surprise Performance at Newport Folk Festival
Joni Mitchell made a surprise return to live performance in June 2022 with an unannounced show at the Newport Folk Festival, marking a celebrated moment in her career.
July 2022: Return to Live Performance
Joni Mitchell's return to live performance in July 2022 was a significant triumph after her aneurysm in 2015.
July 24, 2022: Surprise Performance at Newport Folk Festival
Joni Mitchell made a surprise appearance at the Newport Folk Festival on July 24, 2022, marking her first public performance in nine years.
October 19, 2022: Joni Jam 2 Announced
On October 19, 2022, Brandi Carlile announced that Joni Mitchell would play a headline concert, "Joni Jam 2," in June 2023.
2022: Joni Mitchell Named MusiCares Person of the Year
In recognition of her significant contributions to music and philanthropy, Joni Mitchell received the esteemed title of MusiCares Person of the Year in 2022.
January 1, 2023: Rolling Stone's "The 200 Greatest Singers of All Time"
On January 1, 2023, Rolling Stone magazine recognized Joni Mitchell's exceptional vocal abilities by placing her at number 50 on their list of "The 200 Greatest Singers of All Time."
January 12, 2023: Joni Mitchell Awarded the Gershwin Prize
Joni Mitchell's remarkable contributions to music were celebrated on January 12, 2023, when the Library of Congress named her the recipient of the prestigious Gershwin Prize. A concert was held in her honor on March 2 in Washington, D.C., to commemorate the award.
June 10, 2023: Joni Jam 2
Joni Mitchell performed "Joni Jam 2" at the Gorge Amphitheatre on June 10, 2023, marking a significant return to the stage.
2023: Joni Mitchell Returns to Headlining Shows
In 2023, Joni Mitchell continued her return to live performance by headlining her own shows, further solidifying her enduring legacy in music.
2023: Rolling Stone Names Joni Mitchell One of the Greatest Guitarists
In 2023, Rolling Stone magazine recognized Joni Mitchell's guitar skills by including her on their list of the greatest guitarists of all time, a testament to her musical versatility.
2023: Gershwin Prize
Joni Mitchell was awarded the 2023 Gershwin Prize for her lifetime contributions to popular music.
2023: Newport Folk Festival Set Released as Live Album
The set from Joni Mitchell's Newport Folk Festival performance was released as a live album in 2023 and later won a Grammy Award.
February 4, 2024: Performance at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards
On February 4, 2024, Joni Mitchell performed at the 66th Annual Grammy Awards for the first time.
March 22, 2024: Music Restored to Spotify
Joni Mitchell restored her music to Spotify on March 22, 2024, ending her protest against the platform.
2024: Joni Mitchell Wins Grammy Award for Best Folk Album
Joni Mitchell's influence continues to resonate, as evidenced by her Grammy win for Best Folk Album in 2024.
2024: Grammy Award for Best Folk Album
Joni Mitchell's live album from the Newport Folk Festival won the Grammy Award for Best Folk Album in 2024.