Joni Mitchell
The essential Joni Mitchell records, ranked — where to start and what to reach for next.
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1BlueJoni MitchellStart here
Blue
An intimate, confessional landmark of singer-songwriter craft, spare in arrangement and emotionally fearless. Mitchell's melodies and open tunings are extraordinary throughout. Routinely named one of the greatest albums ever made.
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2CloudsJoni MitchellClassic
Clouds
An early folk peak, home to 'Both Sides, Now'. Beautiful and beloved. A high point.
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3Ladies of the CanyonJoni MitchellClassic
Ladies of the Canyon
A warm bridge between folk and her jazzier turn, home to 'Big Yellow Taxi'. Tuneful and beloved. A favourite.
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4Court and SparkJoni MitchellClassic
Court and Spark
Mitchell's jazziest, most accessible record, pairing sophisticated arrangements with sharp, witty writing. It was her commercial peak and remains deeply rewarding. A perfect bridge between her folk and jazz periods.
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5HejiraJoni MitchellClassic
Hejira
A restless, jazzy travelogue of long, literate songs and Jaco's bass. Reflective and singular. A late peak.
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6Shadows and LightJoni MitchellClassic
Shadows and Light
The live document of her jazz period — Jaco Pastorius and Pat Metheny in the band, her voice and phrasing at peak sophistication.
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7For the RosesJoni MitchellDeep cut
For the Roses
A reflective, jazz-leaning bridge in her catalogue. Beautiful and acclaimed. A grower among fans.
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8The Hissing of Summer LawnsJoni MitchellDeep cut
The Hissing of Summer Lawns
An ambitious, jazz-and-world-leaning peak of suburban critique. Bold and acclaimed. A grower among fans.
- A Case of You from Blue · on Best Folk Songs of All Time, Best Folk Songs of All Time, Best 1970s Folk & Singer-Songwriter Songs
- River from Blue · on Best 1970s Folk & Singer-Songwriter Songs
- The Circle Game from Ladies of the Canyon · on Best Folk Songs of All Time, Best 1970s Folk & Singer-Songwriter Songs
Tracks we've featured in our best-of lists — tap a title to find it on Amazon Music.