Joni Mitchell, Now 80, Just Performed at the Grammys for the First Time Ever

66th grammy awards show
Joni Mitchell Finally Performs at the GrammysAmy Sussman - Getty Images
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There’s been no shortage of legends at the 2024 Grammy Awards, from Billy Joel, to Stevie Wonder, to Annie Lennox, and even a surprise appearance from the elusive Tracy Chapman. But perhaps the most anticipated appearance was one from Joni Mitchell, who, at 80 years old, made her first-ever Grammy performance.

While seated onstage, Mitchell gave a gorgeous, slowed-down rendition of “Both Sides Now,” and was joined by Jacob Collier, Brandi Carlile, and others. The moving performance left the crowd giving a teary-eyed standing ovation. Stars like Beyoncé, Taylor Swift, Olivia Rodrigo, and Dua Lipa were spotted applauding on their feet.

Earlier today, Mitchell accepted the Grammy for Best Folk Album, for Joni Mitchell At Newport [Live]. Her past nine wins include Album of the Year for River: The Joni Letters, Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for “Both Sides Now,” Best Folk Performance for Clouds, and a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Mitchell suffered a brain aneurysm in 2015 and underwent therapy to be able to walk again. In the past couple of years, the “Big Yellow Taxi” singer has gradually returned to the stage, performing at the Newport Folk Festival and at the Gorge Amphitheater in Quincy, Washington. She was also named a Kennedy Center Honoree in 2021.

We’ll be seeing a lot more of the music legend later this year. Mitchell just announced upcoming performances at the Hollywood Bowl on October 19 and October 20, marking her first shows in Los Angeles since 2000. Over 50 years into her musical career, she shows no signs of slowing down.

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