Evaluating the importance of Joni Mitchell’s Blue over fifty years since it was released is a unique experience. From a contemporary listening perspective it’s a lovely folk album, filled with wonderful harmonies and rock-solid storytelling that explores the dynamics of romantic relationships and the swirling emotions that come along with them. But from a historical perspective set in the early 70’s, Blue was a revelation– it was one of the first examples of a female lead vocalist exposing her insecurities live on a record, filled with transparent reflections and biting soundbites that enabled future female vocalists to truly bare their soul in front of the microphone. It’s within this context that has made Blue one of the most heralded albums of all-time, consistently placing in the Top 10 for critics “Best Of” lists and consistently being referred to as one of the turning points in 20th century music. In other words, it’s a pinnacle album (especially for female singer-songwriters) that remains one of the most important albums to ever be released.
Standout Songs: “My Old Man”, “Little Green”, “California”, “River”
