Joni Mitchell’s Incredible ‘Both Sides Now’ Performance Earns Standing Ovation at 2024 Grammys
via Amy Karibian / YouTube
The 2024 Grammy Awards witnessed a historic moment as the iconic Joni Mitchell graced the stage for a remarkable performance of “Both Sides Now,” earning a well-deserved standing ovation from the audience. Introduced by the talented Brandi Carlile, Mitchell’s presence was celebrated as a pivotal influence on singer-songwriters.
Brandi Carlile, acknowledging Mitchell’s impact
She expressed,
“Joni is one of the most influential and emotionally generous creators in human history.”
Carlile highlighted Mitchell’s groundbreaking contribution to music, emphasizing how she redefined the purpose of a song to reflect the depths of one’s soul.
Taking the stage for the first time at the Grammys, the 80-year-old “Big Yellow Taxi” singer delivered a heartfelt rendition of “Both Sides Now.” Seated on a throne and surrounded by chandeliers, Mitchell was joined by fellow musicians, including Brandi Carlile, Jess Wolfe, and Holly Laessig of Lucius. The captivating performance moved the audience to their feet, resulting in a well-deserved standing ovation.
Despite this being Mitchell’s inaugural Grammy performance, she is no stranger to the prestigious awards. With 10 Grammy wins and a total of 18 nominations, Mitchell has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her 10th Grammy win came in the Best Folk Album category for “Joni Mitchell at Newport [Live].” The category included esteemed nominees such as Paul Simon, The Milk Carton Kids, Dom Flemons, Rufus Wainwright, and Nickel Creek.
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Reflecting on a spectacular year
Mitchell’s triumphant return to the Newport Folk Festival in 2022 marked her first live performance in two decades. Battling a brain aneurysm in 2015, Mitchell candidly shared her journey of rediscovering music, saying,
“I’m learning… It’s amazing what an aneurysm knocks out – how to get out of a chair! You have to relearn everything.”
Acknowledging Mitchell’s impact, Billy Porter lauded, “We are all better artists because of the lines you dared to cross. Joni Mitchell, you are marvelous.” Mitchell’s achievements were further celebrated when she received the MusiCares Person of the Year in Las Vegas, with musical luminaries such as Lionel Richie, Brandi Carlile, Beck, John Legend, and Mickey Guyton honoring her.
In June 2023, Mitchell headlined her first ticketed show in 20 years, titled “Joni Jam,” at the Gorge Amphitheater in Quincy, Washington. Responding to overwhelming demand, she added a Hollywood Bowl show on October 19, with an additional performance on October 20. These concerts marked Mitchell’s return to the live music scene in Los Angeles after a hiatus since 2000.
The timeless classic, “Both Sides Now,” originally written in 1966 and commercially recorded by Judy Collins, holds a special place in Mitchell’s discography. Her rendition for the 1969 album “Clouds” won the Best Folk Recording Grammy in 1970, solidifying its significance in her illustrious career.
Joni Mitchell wowed everyone at the 2024 Grammys! Her performance wasn’t just amazing; it showed how great she is and how much she’s influenced music. The standing ovation was like a big clap for this legendary artist who keeps inspiring people with her awesome music.
