Joni Mitchell Officially Becomes a U.S. Citizen After 62 Years in America Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell has officially become a United States citizen, as announced on her Instagram. The decision marks the culmination of a journey that began in the mid-1960s, leading her to a prominent role in the Laurel Canyon music scene and establishing a legacy that continues to influence artists today. HAMILTON, ONTARIO - MARCH 29: Joni Mitchell attends the 2026 JUNO Awards at TD Coliseum on March 29, 2026 in Hamilton, Ontario.has had quite the American journey, and it has finally hit a new milestone. More than six decades after making her way south from Canada, the legendary singer/songwriter has officially become a United States citizen. Mitchell shared the news via Instagram on Tuesday (Oct. 13), posting a photo of herself smiling while holding a miniature American flag. She also uploaded a video showing her being applauded as she stepped forward during her citizenship ceremony.Joni Mitchell Becomes United States CitizenJuno Awards 2026 Best Moments: Joni Mitchell Sings, Rush Reunites, Drake Pays Tribute to Nelly Furtado"A journey that began 62 years ago," she captioned the post. Mitchell has not provided further details about her decision to pursue citizenship. Born in Fort Macleod, Alberta, in 1943, Mitchell first moved to the United States in the mid-1960s. Her travels eventually brought her to Los Angeles, where she became a defining figure in the Laurel Canyon music scene alongside fellow singer/songwriters and musicians.Over the decades, Mitchell built a catalog that would influence generations of artists, earning her a place among the most celebrated and recognized songwriters in popular music. Her relationship with the U.S., however, has not always been straightforward. During a 2024 performance at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, Mitchell made her political feelings known with a blunt expletive directed at then-presidential candidate Donald Trump.She followed it with a lament about her inability to vote as a Canadian citizen, jokingly referring to herself as "one of those lousy immigrants.Mitchell's Enduring Musical Legacy And Influence" This turning point in Mitchell's life comes with an extraordinary legacy behind her. On the charts, Mitchell's biggestremains a cornerstone of her catalog. The deeply personal album peaked at No. 15 on the Billboard 200, featuring songs such as "A Case of You," "River" and "California." Its reputation has only grown over time, establishing itself as an influential album of its era. Billboard is a part of PMX Global, LLC, a subsidiary of Penske Media Corporation. © 2026 Billboard Media, LLC. All rights reserved.