Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, who left Canada more than sixty years ago, has recently become a U.S. citizen to exercise her voting rights. Mitchell, 82, shared the news of her naturalization on Instagram and X, posting images and a video from the ceremony. In the photos, Mitchell is seen joyfully holding an American flag, dressed in a red beret and sunglasses, with the second slide showing her receiving applause at the event.
In a subsequent social media post, Mitchell elaborated on her decision, emphasizing her pride in her new status while affirming her continued Canadian citizenship. She emphasized, “I’m a proud Canerican like Neil Young,” highlighting the dual citizenship agreement between Canada and the U.S., enabling her to retain her Canadian passport.
Born as Roberta Joan Anderson in Fort Macleod, Alta., in 1943, Mitchell relocated to the United States during the mid-1960s following a brief marriage to American musician Chuck Mitchell. She resided in Detroit, New York, and eventually settled in California, where she became a prominent figure in the Laurel Canyon music scene. Despite currently living in Santa Barbara, Calif., Mitchell maintains a second home on British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast.
Renowned for iconic songs like “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Woodstock,” as well as the critically acclaimed 1971 album “Blue,” Mitchell’s musical journey has seen her transition from a folk singer in Toronto to one of the most influential songwriters in history. With a prolific career spanning 19 studio albums, Mitchell has received accolades including 11 Grammys, five Juno Awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Mitchell’s decision to obtain U.S. citizenship has raised questions due to her vocal political opinions, particularly regarding former President Donald Trump. Despite mixed reactions on social media, with some celebrating the news and others expressing skepticism, Mitchell remains committed to her artistry and advocacy. Following a health setback in 2015, Mitchell made a remarkable recovery and resumed public performances in 2022, receiving a lifetime achievement award at the Juno Awards earlier this year.
As Mitchell embarks on this new chapter as an American citizen, anticipation builds for a potential biopic depicting her extraordinary life story. Reportedly in development, the film is said to involve director Cameron Crowe and actress Meryl Streep, according to IMDb.