Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell, after more than sixty years away from Canada, has recently obtained U.S. citizenship to exercise her voting rights. Mitchell, aged 82, revealed the news through Instagram and X, sharing images and a video from her naturalization ceremony. In the pictures, Mitchell can be seen joyfully wearing a red beret and sunglasses, holding an American flag, and receiving applause at the ceremony.
While Mitchell did not provide further details when contacted by CBC News, she later expressed her motivation for becoming a U.S. citizen in a social media post. She clarified that she retained her Canadian citizenship and proudly referred to herself as a “Canerican” akin to fellow musician Neil Young. The dual citizenship agreement between Canada and the U.S. allows Mitchell to hold both passports.
Originally named Roberta Joan Anderson and born in Fort Macleod, Alta., in 1943, Mitchell relocated to the U.S. during the 1960s. She resided in various American cities before settling in California, where she played a significant role in the music scene. Despite currently living in Santa Barbara, Calif., she maintains a second home in British Columbia.
Renowned for iconic songs like “Big Yellow Taxi” and “Woodstock,” as well as her critically acclaimed 1971 album “Blue,” Mitchell has evolved from a folk singer in Toronto to a highly influential songwriter. Her distinguished career includes 19 studio albums, 11 Grammy Awards, five Juno Awards, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Mitchell’s recent decision to acquire U.S. citizenship has sparked interest, especially considering her previous vocal criticisms of U.S. politics. During a 2024 performance, she publicly expressed discontent with then-President Donald Trump and urged people to vote. The news of her citizenship drew mixed reactions on social media, with some celebrating the move while others questioned its timing amid strained U.S.-Canada relations.
After facing health challenges, including a 2015 brain aneurysm, Mitchell made a remarkable comeback to public life in 2022. She was honored with a lifetime achievement award by Prime Minister Mark Carney at the Juno Awards earlier this year. Additionally, a biopic about her life, with director Cameron Crowe and actress Meryl Streep involved, is reportedly in the works according to IMDb.