In a deeply moving moment at the Newport Folk Festival 2022, Joni Mitchell performed “Both Sides Now” live on stage for the first time in years, and the official video captures every emotional detail. Sitting in a regal chair, surrounded by musicians and close friends, including Brandi Carlile, Joni’s presence was both fragile and powerful. Her voice, aged with time but filled with soul, carried a quiet strength that brought many in the crowd to tears. Dressed in a beautiful blue outfit and a wide-brimmed hat, Joni gently strummed her guitar as the audience watched in reverent silence.
The lighting was soft and golden, casting a warm glow over the stage, making the moment feel timeless. Her phrasing of the lyrics, especially lines like “I really don’t know life at all,” felt even more poignant with the weight of her lived experience. The crowd, full of longtime fans and younger admirers, listened closely, some with hands over their hearts, others visibly emotional.
As the song ended, the audience erupted into a standing ovation, and Joni smiled quietly, her eyes glistening. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a historic return, filled with grace, gratitude, and the unmistakable magic of Joni Mitchell.
Joni Mitchell’s live performance of “A Case of You” at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival marked a poignant and historic return to the stage. Held on July 24, 2022, this appearance was Mitchell’s first full public concert since 2000 and her first at Newport since 1969. The performance was part of a surprise set dubbed “The Joni Jam,” where she was joined by Brandi Carlile and other notable musicians, including Marcus Mumford and Wynonna Judd .
This event was especially significant as it followed Mitchell’s recovery from a 2015 brain aneurysm, which had left her needing to relearn how to walk, talk, and play music. Her rendition of “A Case of You,” a classic from her 1971 album Blue, was met with emotional acclaim, showcasing her enduring artistry and resilience .
The live recording of this performance was later released digitally on June 8, 2023 . Additionally, the full set from the festival was compiled into the live album At Newport, released on July 28, 2023, and produced by Brandi Carlile and Joni Mitchell herself .
For those interested in experiencing this remarkable performance, the official video of “A Case of You” from the Newport Folk Festival 2022 is available to watch