Joni Mitchell Becomes US Citizen After 62 Years in America

 Joni Mitchell Becomes a US Citizen After More Than 60 Years in America

By Lamiel Side News | Entertainment

Legendary Canadian singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell has become a United States citizen at the age of 82, marking a significant milestone more than six decades after she left her native Canada.

Mitchell shared the news on social media on October 13, 2026, posting a photograph of herself holding an American flag during her naturalization ceremony. She captioned the image: “A journey that began 62 years ago.”

The celebrated musician, known for her distinctive voice, poetic songwriting and influence on generations of artists, was pictured smiling while wearing a red beret and sunglasses. A short video from the ceremony showed attendees applauding her.

From Canada to the United States

Born in Fort Macleod, Alberta, Canada, in 1943, Mitchell began developing her musical career in her home country before moving to Toronto in 1964.

She performed at folk clubs and coffee houses before eventually travelling to the United States. Her journey took her to Detroit and New York City, where she continued building her career as a singer and songwriter.

Mitchell later settled in California, becoming associated with Los Angeles’ Laurel Canyon music community, which was an important centre of the American folk-rock scene during the 1960s and 1970s.

Her decision to become a US citizen marks a new chapter in a life and career closely connected to both Canada and the United States.

A Lasting Influence on Music

Mitchell is widely regarded as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of her generation. Her music combines folk, rock and jazz influences with personal storytelling and thoughtful observations about society and relationships.

Among her best-known songs are “Big Yellow Taxi,” “Woodstock” and “Amelia.” Her acclaimed album Blue, released in 1971, remains an important work in popular music.

Over the course of her career, Mitchell has received major honours, including induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1997 and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2002.

Her contributions to Canadian music were also recognised with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 Juno Awards, according to the report.

Can She Keep Her Canadian Citizenship?

The United States and Canada generally permit dual citizenship. This means that acquiring US citizenship does not automatically require Mitchell to give up her Canadian citizenship.

Her new status therefore does not necessarily mean she has severed her legal connection to the country where she was born.

The development comes at a time when political and trade relations between Canada and the United States have faced renewed tensions. However, Mitchell has not publicly explained in the reported announcement why she chose this particular moment to become an American citizen.

A Career That Continues to Inspire

Mitchell has faced serious health challenges in recent years, including a brain aneurysm and a stroke in 2015. Despite those difficulties, she returned to the stage and performed at the 2024 Grammy Awards, where she won Best Folk Album for Joni Mitchell at Newport.

Her long career, musical influence and continued recognition have made her an enduring figure in international entertainment.

Mitchell’s naturalization marks a personal milestone for the artist, whose life and work have crossed borders for more than 60 years.

Sources: CNN reporting; Joni Mitchell’s official social media announcement.

Entertainment Disclaimer: This article is intended for general news and informational purposes. Details are based on the reported announcement and publicly available information.