Renowned musician Joni Mitchell has recently made headlines, announcing her new status as a U.S. citizen while reaffirming her strong ties to her Canadian roots. The iconic singer-songwriter, who turned 82 this year, stated that, although she has embraced American citizenship after more than 60 years of residing in the country, she has no intention of relinquishing her Canadian citizenship. Describing herself as a “Canerican,” she joins fellow Canadian musician Neil Young, who also chose to become a U.S. citizen to exercise his right to vote.
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Mitchell’s decision to pursue U.S. citizenship was motivated primarily by her desire to participate in the upcoming elections. In a statement released on October 15, she expressed her feelings candidly: “I became a citizen so I could vote. I didn’t give up my Canadian citizenship, and I never will.” This decision has led to speculation about her political inclinations, especially given her past criticisms of Donald Trump, which she articulated during a concert in 2024.
Born in Canada in 1943, Mitchell has lived in the United States since 1965, spending significant time in major cities such as Detroit, New York, and Los Angeles. She currently resides in Santa Barbara, California, where she has continued to create art and music that reflect her concerns about contemporary political issues.
In conjunction with her announcement regarding her citizenship, Mitchell also revealed a forthcoming collection of paintings titled “NEWS.” Set for release on November 4, this collection comprises 23 works that engage critically with the relentless nature of the news cycle. In an earlier statement on October 15, she highlighted her motivations for the project: “In the current climate, I felt a need to express my concern. It is an artist’s duty to speak up.”
Mitchell characterised “NEWS” as her personal protest song, uniquely created for visual interpretation rather than auditory. Engaging with themes relevant to today’s media landscape, she described the collection as “a song not for the ears but for the eyes,” confronting the phenomenon of “fake news” that has become prevalent in recent years. Each piece incorporates slogans, song lyrics, and images that reflect her perspective on current events.
The upcoming exhibition will allow the public to view her artwork at the L.A. Louver gallery in Venice, California. The event is scheduled for October 29 and 30, with opening hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., inviting fans and art enthusiasts alike to experience Mitchell’s artistic vision.
In addition to standard editions of the book, collectors can acquire 500 individually hand-numbered signed copies, which are available through designated platforms. Julien’s Auctions is also participating in this initiative by offering the first ten copies of the book, with all proceeds earmarked for charitable organisations including the ACLU, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Save The Children, and the ASPCA.
A press release promoting the book described Mitchell’s work as a striking blend of wit and political commentary, stating, “Her sharp wit skews power and politics; her voice articulates protest and resistance.” This project serves not only as a testament to Mitchell’s enduring creative spirit but also highlights her commitment to using art as a medium for social reflection and activism.
Despite her long tenure in the U.S., the duality of her identity remains central to Mitchell’s narrative. Her declaration of being a “Canerican” underscores her connection to her native Canada, while her recent citizenship acquisition demonstrates her engagement in the American political landscape. As the next elections approach, it is clear that Joni Mitchell is ready to use her voice—both through music and visual art—to advocate for the issues she cares about deeply.