Joni Mitchell Delights Fans at Hollywood Bowl with Epic 3-Hour Joni Jam

Joni Mitchell made a triumphant return to the Hollywood Bowl on Saturday, October 19, 2024, with her first full headlining concert in Los Angeles in over 24 years. The 80-year-old legendary singer-songwriter, who has been recovering from a near-fatal aneurysm in 2015, performed a three-hour show that was part of her ‘Joni Jam’ series. The event, which was sold out, saw Mitchell take the stage in a gilded armchair, surrounded by a dozen musicians including Brandi Carlile, Annie Lennox, Jon Batiste, Jacob Collier, Blake Mills, Rita Wilson, and Robin Pecknold.

The concert was marked by Mitchell’s unique setlist, which included deep cuts and lesser-known songs rather than her most popular hits. Songs like ‘Harlem in Havana’ and ‘The Sire of Sorrow (Job’s Sad Song)’ were featured, showcasing Mitchell’s continued creativity and willingness to push boundaries. The performance also included a poignant rendition of ‘Both Sides Now,’ with Jacob Collier’s piano playing adding a stunning dimension to the song.

Mitchell’s engagement with the audience was lively and humorous, with her delivering a few memorable lines, including a humorous jab at Donald Trump. When she mentioned her inability to vote in the upcoming presidential election due to her Canadian citizenship, she quipped, ‘I’m one of those lousy immigrants,’ and repeated a crowd member’s exclamation, ‘F— Donald Trump,’ to a roaring approval from the audience.

The concert was a testament to Mitchell’s enduring passion for music and her ability to connect with her audience on a deep level. Brandi Carlile, who has been instrumental in supporting Mitchell’s return to performing, expressed the pride and honor of the musicians involved in facilitating Mitchell’s vision. The evening concluded with a crowd-pleasing performance of ‘Circle Game,’ which saw the audience singing along enthusiastically).