Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, who left Canada over six decades ago, has officially become a U.S. citizen to exercise her right to vote. Mitchell, aged 82, shared the news through social media platforms like Instagram and X. She posted a photo and a video from her naturalization ceremony, where she appeared cheerful in a red beret and sunglasses, holding a small American flag on her cardigan. The caption accompanying the post simply stated, “A journey that began 62 years ago.”
In a subsequent social media update, Mitchell explained her decision to become a citizen, emphasizing her pride in the new status while affirming her commitment to retaining her Canadian citizenship. She expressed her intention to vote, highlighting that she remains a dual citizen of both Canada and the U.S., allowing her to keep her Canadian passport.
Born as Roberta Joan Anderson in Fort Macleod, Alta., in 1943, Mitchell moved to the United States in the mid-1960s during a brief marriage to American musician Chuck Mitchell. She resided in various American cities before settling in California, where she became a prominent figure in the Laurel Canyon music scene. Although currently living in Santa Barbara, Calif., Mitchell also maintains a residence in British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast.
Renowned for songs like “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Woodstock,” Mitchell’s musical legacy includes the acclaimed 1971 album “Blue.” Over her career, she has evolved from a folk singer in Toronto to one of the most influential songwriters globally, earning numerous accolades such as 11 Grammys, five Juno Awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Given Mitchell’s vocal political activism in recent years, her decision to acquire U.S. citizenship has generated mixed reactions on social media. While some celebrated the news as a significant moment for Joni, others questioned the timing, particularly in light of strained U.S.-Canada relations and Mitchell’s critical stance towards former President Donald Trump.
Having overcome health challenges, including a brain aneurysm in 2015, Mitchell returned to public performance in 2022. Her contributions to music were recognized earlier this year when Prime Minister Mark Carney presented her with a lifetime achievement award at the Juno Awards in Hamilton, Ont.
As Mitchell officially joins the American citizenry, there are reports of a biopic in development about her life, with director Cameron Crowe and actor Meryl Streep rumored to be involved in the project.