Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, aged 82, has recently obtained U.S. citizenship after over sixty years since relocating from Canada. Mitchell shared the news via Instagram and X, posting a photo and video from her naturalization ceremony. In the visuals, Mitchell can be seen donning a red beret and sunglasses, holding an American flag while being applauded during the ceremony. Her caption simply stated, “A journey that began 62 years ago.”
Born as Roberta Joan Anderson in Fort Macleod, Alta., in 1943, Mitchell moved to the U.S. in the mid-1960s during a short-lived marriage to American musician Chuck Mitchell. She resided in Detroit, New York, and eventually settled in California, where she became a prominent figure in the Laurel Canyon music scene. While currently living in Santa Barbara, Calif., she also maintains a residence in British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast.
Mitchell is renowned for her songs like “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Woodstock,” with her 1971 album “Blue” considered a seminal work. Throughout her career, she transitioned from a folk singer in Toronto coffeehouses to one of the most influential songwriters, having released 19 studio albums and earned accolades such as 11 Grammys, five Juno Awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The news of Mitchell’s U.S. citizenship has sparked varying reactions on social media, with some celebrating the announcement while others questioning the timing, especially given her previous criticisms of U.S. President Donald Trump. Mitchell’s decision does not sever her ties with Canada, as she will retain her Canadian passport due to the dual citizenship agreement between the two countries.
Despite facing health challenges like a brain aneurysm in 2015, Mitchell made a remarkable comeback in 2022 after years of recovery. Prime Minister Mark Carney honored her with a lifetime achievement award at the Juno Awards earlier this year. Additionally, a biopic chronicling Mitchell’s life is reportedly in the works, with director Cameron Crowe and actress Meryl Streep rumored to be involved in the project.