Renowned singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, who left Canada over sixty years ago, has recently obtained U.S. citizenship to exercise her right to vote. Mitchell, aged 82, announced her new status through Instagram and X, sharing photos and a video from her naturalization ceremony, where she appeared joyful with an American flag and received applause. While the artist did not elaborate much in her social media posts, she later clarified that she retained her Canadian citizenship and proudly dubbed herself a “Canerican” akin to Neil Young.
Mitchell, born as Roberta Joan Anderson in 1943 in Fort Macleod, Alberta, relocated to the U.S. in the 1960s, eventually becoming a prominent figure in the Laurel Canyon music scene. Despite now residing in California, she maintains a secondary home in British Columbia. Notable for hits like “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Woodstock,” Mitchell’s musical journey from folk singer to acclaimed songwriter has garnered her numerous accolades, including 11 Grammys and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
The timing of Mitchell’s citizenship acquisition raised eyebrows given her past criticisms of former U.S. President Donald Trump, but reactions on social media varied. Some users celebrated the news, while others questioned the decision amidst strained U.S.-Canada relations. Mitchell’s resilience following a 2015 health crisis, which impacted her ability to perform, culminated in a prestigious lifetime achievement award at the Juno Awards. Additionally, a biopic chronicling her life, with director Cameron Crowe and actress Meryl Streep attached, is reportedly in the works, hinting at the potential for Mitchell’s inspiring story to hit the silver screen.