If there was any doubt that Joni Mitchell (78) still can hold her own after having not performed live since 2013, those misconceptions were erased Sunday (7/24) at the Newport Folk Festival. The festival already was shining brightly from a surprise appearance from Paul Simon on Saturday, and now the legendary yet reclusive Joni appeared to perform “Case of You” off 1971’s iconic Blue album and she performed “Just Like This Train” while standing and playing guitar. Mitchell perform a full set that included “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Shine,” “Amelia,” “Help Me,” which featured a guest appearance from Celisse.
Mitchell’s voice of course has deepened over time, yet her throaty vocals were something most of us thought we’d never hear on stage again. So let’s take in this monumental guest appearance/full set and Joni’s first appearance at Newport Folk since 1969. Joni also appeared on CBS for a full interview (along with Carlile) following her performance, where she shed light and insight into her recovery and return to performing.
