The title song from "The Hissing of Summer Lawns" is an excellent listen. That whole album has a definite theme about disappointment, expectations, and settling in life. However the title track, and the track "Harry's house/Centerpiece" is outstanding as well. Just brilliant lyricism. Dig it when you can.
brilliant writing - at the time we didn't know it was about giving her baby up for adoption when she was starting out in Toronto in her early career - she later was reunited with her daughter - Joni loved skating and winter but this song expresses those family thoughts that come up during xmas of happiness and sadness. at least that my opinion - i know the Graham Nash angle but i think it's also about her daughter - Little Green is on Blue and that references it as well.
My first thought was of the child she gave up, when she talks of it you can see the regret, decision made in the heat of the moment.Question, does anyone know who the father was?Did he have say in it or he didn't want one?
According to Joni herself this is a song about the end of a relationship and also about feeling lonely at Christmas time. Amazing song from the most amazing woman that ever lived!! THERE I said it!! ❤️💚❤️💚
SOMEONE HAS CALLED IT THE CRAZY TIME OF YEAR 😢 LONELY ❤ NO MATTER HOW IT HAPPENS , JUST AIN'T GOOD ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU GET OLDER...ALL THE LONELY PEOPLE * WHERE DO THEY ALL COME FROM....I JUST TYPED IT guess y'all didn't know that ❤❤
I'd recommend the Joni Mitchell "Shadows and Light" concert footage on Y.Tube from her jazzy period. Her band for that tour included Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, Michael Brecker, etc. Here is the P.Metheny solo. I love the way the relationship between Lyle Mays's synth backing and Metheny's note choices create emotion. : ua-cam.com/video/X6bFMOzGowY/v-deo.html That concert also has a Jaco Pastorius electric bass solo spot where he goes into Hendrix.
"Blue" is a great album, full of classic songs although I think the next one "For the Roses" is even better, my favorite of hers. Her voice is better, the songs are more complex, lots of confessional lyrics with some brilliant tunes. For Graham Nash's response listen to his song 'Simple Man.' You should listen to 'This Flight Tonight' also on "Blue" it's more complex with changes.
Such a beautiful song. There is something about this song that makes me cry. Some years ago, Herbie Hancock released an album called “The Joni Letters”, which won a grammy. I highly recommend that album. Herbie is a jazz genius.
Hate to bring everyone down but, I just lost it listening to this song just now. A fellow work person fell and broke a few ribs right at Christmas and never fully recovered. She passed last week... Joni helped me mourn, I needed that. She was a good person and boss. Peace and Music
What a tragedy. 😪 I’m so sorry. Music can be a great healer and our best friend. Two very moving songs that have helped me deal with great loss are “Forever Autumn” by Justin Hayward and “Afterglow” by Genesis. xxxx
Cathy Wood Ty Cathy, it’s true, music is art and art can heal or make tolerable so much of life’s wounds. Really appreciate your kind words and musical suggestions. I will give a listen, thank you.
Man David, I'm really sorry to hear that. It makes me happy though, to hear how Joni helped you. Hope you're feeling better, I'm around if you wanna chat
JustJP Thx, Justin, for your offer, means a lot. As long as I get it out once in a while I’ll be fine. I’m more worried about the family and long time workers. Good people. Take care.
RIVER is one the most emotionally powerful self reflective melancholic songs ever on an album that poured and dripped with huge doses of deep personal introspection maybe more than any other of her deeply moving catalog! And artist like Joni are extremely expressive and visceral in the way they sing the lyrics. Notice how she sings "FLY" with her voice rising, as if she is actually trying to FLYYYYYYYYYYY
Great video. Intelligent commentary on a beautiful song. Refreshing change from a person 'emoting' with nothing to say or a couple of dudes head-bobbing with nothing to say except 'wow' or 'dude'. This is one of my all-time favorite albums from start to end. Thank you.
I most definitely did watch this when you released it, Justin. I don't know why I didn't comment about it, since it's one of my favorite songs and albums, and Joni is my favorite female singer. Even now, I am having a problem writing to you about it. Me, Miss Long-Winded! I can't explain why. Of course, the song rips me apart, and I can't listen to it without crying. Your analysis is brilliant, of course.
A brilliant, sad, melancholic, tragic song from the woman born Roberta Joan Anderson. Joni the genius artist. As others have said, you must check out "Help Me" (which probably gets more radio play than any of her other songs). Even a more upbeat one like "Chelsea Morning" is a must-listen. Also, it's worth noting that as she matured, so did her voice (that, and a chain-smoking habit). Her later albums featured vocals that dipped into a husky alto, but with no less virtuosity. Great analysis and reaction. (Oh, and when she was on that "Grecian Isle" of Crete, fleeing that ruined relationship, she wrote another song: "California", also on the Blue album.)
First listen. Beautiful song. Wonderful voice. Lots of songs about rivers. Of course, my favorite river song is 'The River' by Bruce Springsteen. Favorite line from the song: "Is a dream a lie if it don't come true/or is it something worse" Yes, it's something worse.
Any song from Hissing of Summer Lawns or Hejira will transport you, her two best works in my op. That said, Harry’s House and Centerpiece is an amazing song....
All anyone needs to do to make a happy song sound sad is use minor instead of the original major chords. Joni did it very beautifully here, of course, just like everything she did.
I think the emotional turmoil relates to both the split from Graham Nash and regrets about having given up her child for adoption. The point is that Christmas is a time for families and she has severed her ties with the most important people in her life and is alone and feels lonely. Love has eluded her and she wonders if she has made the right decisions and will she ever find tru happiness. The river would provide her with an escape route - to escape herself and her predicament as much as anything else. Much of Joni's work is highly autobiographical and written, sung and performed from the heart.
Ahh, thanks for doing that one Justin!🙂👍 Glad you enjoyed it for what it is. It's not a track I listen to everyday either, but it is one that always finds its way onto my Christmas playlist. It's kind of nice to have a quiet and reflective moment at Christmas too. I love the place and feeling Joni is coming from with this lyric. It fits beautifully into the melancholy and soul searching of her Blue album. Highly recommended.
"The song is about the recent breakup of a romantic relationship, with the singer longing to escape her painful emotional bonds. It is thought to be inspired by Mitchell's 1968-1970 relationship with Graham Nash." ~ Wikipedia "Willy" was another song she wrote about the relationship and Nash wrote, "Our House" (performed by Crosby, Stills, & Nash) about the home they shared together in Laurel Canyon. His song "Simple Man" was about their breakup as well.
Dude you listen to all the best music: Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Genesis, etc. And I sometimes tune in specifically to hear songs I haven't heard before because I know you like interesting stuff. Plus your audio setup sounds amazing. I'd love to hear your thoughts on John Prine's "Hello In There". Also Ella Fitzgerald's version of "Sophisticated Lady" from the Duke Ellington songbook. Anyway, keep up the good work.
@Kevin Merck: Joni's musical colleague and incredible bassist in his own right, Jaco Pastorius, does a beautiful rendition of "Sophisticated Lady " with harmonica legend Toots Thielman--- just wanted to recommend that , for another amazing version of Duke's classic.
Love this song. ''Blue'' was the first album I heard from Joni. A lot of people mentioned her song ''Help Me'' from ''Court and Spark''. Great great song also.
I'm a helpless Joni fan - Blue was gifted to me at a young age and I've never recovered (nor would I want to). Another for the desert island (think I'm up to 50+ by now)
If you have just one JM album this is the one. After this she used more production in her music which is not a bad thing but this is very pure and heartfelt. Also if you are into Hifi this is incredibly recorded.
Check out her albums "Court And Spark" and "The Hissing of Summer Lawns". This is the beginning of Joni Mitchell's foray into jazz infused compositions. I had the pleasure of attending one of her concerts in LA (backed up by Tom Scott and the LA Express) in the early 80s. Her catalogue of music is so impressive, it's impossible to compare her to another female artist of the 20th and 21st centuries. And dare I say... most male artists 😉
That was a wonderful song, love her vocals. I loved how the song incorporates Christmas, with Jingle Bells and skating. Good choice and spot on review of the song. The skating on river reference brings back memories for me. We had a creek right beside out home, and we'd constantly play ice hockey on it during the winter growing up. I can also relate to the feeling of being free when I put on a pair of skates.
Hi DR! I hope you got a chance to listen to some of the Joni Mitchell music I recommended. If not, there’s a link in my comment on this video to a 20+ minute live set from 1970 that’s very impressive! I think you’ll love it since you liked “River.” 😊 Thanks for sharing your childhood memory. I’m sure a lot of Canadians (which Joni is) can relate to outdoor ice skating. (I only ever did it in an indoor rink. I missed out!)
@@justintime42000 Oh my god, I feel terrible that I haven't listened to your suggestions yet. I will check them but I forgot what video you posted them in (was it the last video JP did of Joni). So Sorry, I will also check the 20 min video you suggested.
DukesRocks Here’s the link. ua-cam.com/video/dAxjPfWOiqI/v-deo.html I think the video was “Free Man In Paris,” but this concert video ought to grab you. 😊
If this song and "Little Green" from the same album don't make you cry, you are already dead. I mean, really, that's true of the whole album, but those two are the killers.
I've always felt that this refers to the loss of her baby which she put up for adoption. 'A Little Green' is another one which I'm pretty sure refers to her daughter. Very thought provoking and full of real emotion. Beautiful.
This song was inspired by her breakup from Graham Nash of CSN & sometimes Y. THAT "weak In the knees" line is proof that you don't have to be crude when discussing sex.
Wait a minute... Is it just me or there is a known melody hidden in the piano score... Some notes (at the beginning and at the end) I think inspired from another song ? Oh. OK. I got it. It's from the Lucky Strike commercial !
The reason why it came up in Spotify as most requested song is because it’s been featured in several music and TV shows, and it’s been covered by more recording artists than I could name, because everyone makes Christmas albums to try to guarantee they’ll get something played on radio stations at Christmastime. Because Christmas isn’t always a happy time for everyone, a lot of people can relate to just feeling “blue.” I love the melancholy feeling in this song, her voice, the melody, the lyrics, pretty much everything. But I think “California” and “A Case Of You” from this album are much better songs. Spotify doesn’t recommend the best songs; just the most searched and played. You’ve done a few entire albums from male bands. I think you should review this whole album, or “Court And Spark” (which has more upbeat tunes), to give a great female artist equal time and respect. You’d be a “first listen” trailblazer if for every 3-4 albums by guys you review, you give a girl a listen! Even if guys are playing in the band, as long as a woman is singing lead vocals, it would qualify. Please think about it, at least. I really liked your analysis of “River” and how you picked up on the subtleties and the strengths. There’s a live video of Joni Mitchell about 20 minutes long that has two of the “Blue” songs on it. It’s just exquisite, and you will really feel the extent of what her artistry was about in 1970. It’s just her, either with a guitar or piano. Anyone who has a heart will find it melting, watching and listening to Joni Mitchell sing such touching and well crafted songs. I dare you to watch the whole video and not get a tear in your eye! ua-cam.com/video/dAxjPfWOiqI/v-deo.html I loved to ice skate when I was a kid. I did it for the last time when I was about 30. NYC has 3 outdoor rinks and one big indoor one, and I thought about going but I never did. It’s too late for me now as I had to get a knee replacement 3 years ago and it never healed properly. Get out there and skate while you can! I always skated in indoor rinks in DC/VA. We went sledding outside in the snow. You’d have to be crazy to skate on the Potomac River, no matter how frozen it got. The rivers surrounding Manhattan have been frozen solid in winter before and people have skated on the Hudson but NYC has always had daredevil types. No thanks ...
Cathy Wood I can’t remember if we discussed Sandy Denny before, but I was reminded of her when Justin mentioned “just a lady and a piano “. She did similar piano pieces on BBC programs. Solo, John the Gun, and Like An Old Fashioned Waltz popped up on Spotify. Would one of her albums be worthy of a complete listen? Fotheringay? Liege and Lief? Rendezvous?
Try "Raised on Robbery" from her "Court & Spark" album. Not a ballad: Robbie Robertson on guitar, Joe Sample on piano, and your lyric analysis will be fun .
It's interesting that you said Joni sent Graham Nash a telegram to say their relationship was over. In the song which is said to be about him, she says he was the one who said goodbye, because she made him (by her behaviour).
To everyone who likes Joni M. and doesn't understand a word of Dutch, I would like for you to listen to Maaike Opboter singing 'ik mis je'. It's on UA-cam and I would recommend to choose her audition version and tell me if this song appeals to you or not...she has such a delicate voice like Joni but as you won't understand what she is singing about...do you still like it or not. I can give you a translation if you want one because the lyrics are quite special too. It's about her dad dying when she was really young and how she misses him but she is reasuring that she'll be fine by herself 1nd he does not need to worry still and can be at peace in Heaven. Thnx
I can't believe I missed this reaction.....! Joni's such a vocal actress and poet. You are so right about the small details. That's artistry, and is essential to make music, to make it become alive. Her lyrics are very revealing and I especially love how she breaks up her words. I had the great good fortune to see her more than once live, and I was at her birthday celebration (complete with cake) in Los Angeles just before she got sick. She didn't perform, but spoke to the audience and screened a dance film with her music. She is a Queen. When I was 17 I learned many of her songs and the different tunings she used for them. I bought a dulcimer, which during this time of isolation, I am returning to for solace. She was a great musical influence for a young female singer to look up to. Thank you for reacting to these songs that take us all back, and maybe brings new listeners to Joni!
oh man, this one never fails to make me cry! the only christmas song i can listen to honestly!! this entire album is a masterpiece i am so glad you got to hear this song and i looooved your breakdown of it as always! if you feel like it [not a suggestion for a future video just if you're curious], check out this cover of river - just as touching and melancholic if not more - by one of my favorite and very underrated bands ua-cam.com/video/85jE5J-vDSI/v-deo.html brings me to tears just as easily!
Milica Matović I loved Flyte’s version. It’s great! Loved the harmonies especially. They gave it all the tenderness and passion it deserves. Brought a tear to my eye ... These guys are very talented. Thanks so much for posting the link. Which originals of theirs would you recommend? I want to hear more! 🎹🎸🎤😊
@@justintime42000 ah I'm so glad you liked it! they only have one album out so far and a couple of EPs I believe so you can't go wrong no matter what you choose! I enjoy all of their covers on their channel as they are full of harmonies and raw emotion, as for the original songs, if I must pick, Faithless and Cathy Come Home are a great introduction to their sound!
Milica Matović Thanks for the recommendations! I like Flyte even more now that I know they did a song with my name in it, and with the correct spelling at that! 🤣🤣
Great reaction as usual. Have been listening to this song for the best part of 45 years. Never gets boring. Please give it another listen and listen this time to how she plays the piano to match the notes she is singing. Hopefully you will look into the rest of the massive catalogue. Maybe try some of the jazzier albums this time, "Hissing of Summer Lawns", "Hejira", or "Court and Spark" Keep on rocking and I will keep on watching.
You're definitely my favorite song analyst, Justin (I guess cuz your ears pay attention to the same things my ears pay attention to :). I certainly hope you don't miss reviewing 2 of my absolute favorite Joni tunes. One is *"Songs To Aging Children Come"* which is so unique, yet so stunningly beautiful, it is deserving of your cogent analysis. (It was featured in a movie) ua-cam.com/video/3q2jiRUVLgI/v-deo.html&ab_channel=JoniMitchell-Topic The other one I'll recommend is *"Chelsea Morning"* which was one of the cheeriest of Joni's early songs, a delight to hear. There's this vid of her singing it on a late night show special where you can not only hear the song sung (with those ascending high notes you love) but also get to see just how captivating her stunning physical beauty was at that time, combined with unbelievable compositional+singing talent. You'll see why we all fell in love with her :) ua-cam.com/video/DXe95iTtci0/v-deo.html&ab_channel=henhenstoll
Sending a suggestion; Counting Crows "August and Everything After". That's their first album. They did it live on the 25th anniversary. ua-cam.com/video/Ae2Nh0ObSoo/v-deo.html Suggest you react to the song at 39:25
Joni Mitchell is brilliant. And has an extraordinary voice.
I love her free-flowing vocal phrasing.
Free-flowing describes it perfectly
The title song from "The Hissing of Summer Lawns" is an excellent listen. That whole album has a definite theme about disappointment, expectations, and settling in life. However the title track, and the track "Harry's house/Centerpiece" is outstanding as well. Just brilliant lyricism. Dig it when you can.
Could not have picked a better Joni Mitchell song from a better Joni Mitchell album. That woman shivers my spine everytime I hear her voice.
brilliant writing - at the time we didn't know it was about giving her baby up for adoption when she was starting out in Toronto in her early career - she later was reunited with her daughter - Joni loved skating and winter but this song expresses those family thoughts that come up during xmas of happiness and sadness. at least that my opinion - i know the Graham Nash angle but i think it's also about her daughter - Little Green is on Blue and that references it as well.
Interesting, thank you for the insight Bruce
My first thought was of the child she gave up, when she talks of it you can see the regret, decision made in the heat of the moment.Question, does anyone know who the father was?Did he have say in it or he didn't want one?
Yes at the time We knew nothing about her daughter or that the incredible Little Green was about that specific personal experience
According to Joni herself this is a song about the end of a relationship and also about feeling lonely at Christmas time.
Amazing song from the most amazing woman that ever lived!!
THERE I said it!! ❤️💚❤️💚
Say it louder for those in the back! 😁 Thank you Lisa
SOMEONE HAS CALLED IT THE CRAZY TIME OF YEAR 😢 LONELY ❤ NO MATTER HOW IT HAPPENS , JUST AIN'T GOOD ESPECIALLY WHEN YOU GET OLDER...ALL THE LONELY PEOPLE * WHERE DO THEY ALL COME FROM....I JUST TYPED IT guess y'all didn't know that ❤❤
Always loved River, Joni’s talent is undeniable and uniquely beautiful..
Listening to Joni is the best therapy. Every emotion is brought to the surface. Washed clean and renewed. She's my salve.
"Edith and the Kingpin" is a must listen.
I'd recommend the Joni Mitchell "Shadows and Light" concert footage on Y.Tube from her jazzy period. Her band for that tour included Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius, Michael Brecker, etc. Here is the P.Metheny solo. I love the way the relationship between Lyle Mays's synth backing and Metheny's note choices create emotion. :
ua-cam.com/video/X6bFMOzGowY/v-deo.html
That concert also has a Jaco Pastorius electric bass solo spot where he goes into Hendrix.
Have had the album for many years and still listen to it when in the mood and I don't skip tracks so a big thumbs up from me.
MORE JONI, MORE JONI, MORE JONIIIIIIIII LOL :) RIGHT ONNNNN JUSTIN, ANYTHINGGGG FROM LADIES OF THE CANYON, BLUE, OR COURT AND SPARK! THIS IS FROM BLUE
Thanks Bob!
Blue and Ladies Of The Canyon are my absolute favs. Also the live performance of "Woodstock." These bring tears to eyes.
Joni is a Jedi ⚡
Saddest song ever ,love her
Love Joni Mitchell. Thx
Ty for watching!😄
"Blue" is a great album, full of classic songs although I think the next one "For the Roses" is even better, my favorite of hers. Her voice is better, the songs are more complex, lots of confessional lyrics with some brilliant tunes. For Graham Nash's response listen to his song 'Simple Man.'
You should listen to 'This Flight Tonight' also on "Blue" it's more complex with changes.
Such a beautiful song. There is something about this song that makes me cry. Some years ago, Herbie Hancock released an album called “The Joni Letters”, which won a grammy. I highly recommend that album. Herbie is a jazz genius.
Hate to bring everyone down but, I just lost it listening to this song just now. A fellow work person fell and broke a few ribs right at Christmas and never fully recovered. She passed last week... Joni helped me mourn, I needed that. She was a good person and boss.
Peace and Music
What a tragedy. 😪 I’m so sorry. Music can be a great healer and our best friend. Two very moving songs that have helped me deal with great loss are “Forever Autumn” by Justin Hayward and “Afterglow” by Genesis. xxxx
Cathy Wood
Ty Cathy, it’s true, music is art and art can heal or make tolerable so much of life’s wounds. Really appreciate your kind words and musical suggestions. I will give a listen, thank you.
David Olivares You’re most welcome. Look for the studio versions first. I hope you feel the same intensity and empathy I felt from these songs. 💕
Man David, I'm really sorry to hear that. It makes me happy though, to hear how Joni helped you. Hope you're feeling better, I'm around if you wanna chat
JustJP
Thx, Justin, for your offer, means a lot. As long as I get it out once in a while I’ll be fine. I’m more worried about the family and long time workers. Good people. Take care.
Love it !!! Please please please give "A Case of You" from the same album a try, her vocals are sublime, her voice tears at your soul !!!!
Thanks JCA!
Your reaction actually satisfied how I think about it (but couldn't explains ever)
RIVER is one the most emotionally powerful self
reflective melancholic songs ever on an album that poured and dripped with huge doses of deep personal introspection maybe more than any other of her deeply moving catalog! And artist like Joni are extremely expressive and visceral in the way they sing the lyrics. Notice how she sings "FLY" with her voice rising, as if she is actually trying to FLYYYYYYYYYYY
Its quite amazingly emotional, in a way only Joni could do
The climb to the high note is a cry of heartbreak.
in the early 70's it was always good to play Joni after some rock music to mellow out.
Great video. Intelligent commentary on a beautiful song. Refreshing change from a person 'emoting' with nothing to say or a couple of dudes head-bobbing with nothing to say except 'wow' or 'dude'. This is one of my all-time favorite albums from start to end. Thank you.
Thank you DH🙂
How can you not be there with her experiencing these emotions as she sings about them.
I most definitely did watch this when you released it, Justin. I don't know why I didn't comment about it, since it's one of my favorite songs and albums, and Joni is my favorite female singer. Even now, I am having a problem writing to you about it. Me, Miss Long-Winded! I can't explain why.
Of course, the song rips me apart, and I can't listen to it without crying.
Your analysis is brilliant, of course.
No problem! Its a really emotional song, and the way that Joni carries it is...sublime.
Beautiful. Can’t get enough of her voice. Gentle passion.
A brilliant, sad, melancholic, tragic song from the woman born Roberta Joan Anderson. Joni the genius artist. As others have said, you must check out "Help Me" (which probably gets more radio play than any of her other songs). Even a more upbeat one like "Chelsea Morning" is a must-listen.
Also, it's worth noting that as she matured, so did her voice (that, and a chain-smoking habit). Her later albums featured vocals that dipped into a husky alto, but with no less virtuosity.
Great analysis and reaction.
(Oh, and when she was on that "Grecian Isle" of Crete, fleeing that ruined relationship, she wrote another song: "California", also on the Blue album.)
Joni is a pure genius. I have been listening to her for 50 years!
Always loved this song.
Anyone else remember when it was used on the Wonder Years?
What a great series that was!!!!
First listen. Beautiful song. Wonderful voice.
Lots of songs about rivers. Of course, my favorite river song is 'The River' by Bruce Springsteen. Favorite line from the song: "Is a dream a lie if it don't come true/or is it something worse" Yes, it's something worse.
"That voodoo stuff don't do nothing for me". Somewhere down the crazy river / Robbie Robertson
@@peppernagre3126 another obscure gem! I have that album and love it still!
This is from 'blue' and every song on that album is wonderful. It led me to listen to everything she wrote so I've been a fan for 50 years.
Any song from Hissing of Summer Lawns or Hejira will transport you, her two best works in my op. That said, Harry’s House and Centerpiece is an amazing song....
Thanks to react Joni. for me it is a dream to see someone reacting to Song for Sharon
That's a hidden gem on Hejira, for sure. I love that opening lyric: "I went to Staten Island, Sharon, to buy myself a maaaan...dolin".
Many great tunes California ,Carey ,and big yellow taxi
Only Joni could make jingle bells sound sad
All anyone needs to do to make a happy song sound sad is use minor instead of the original major chords. Joni did it very beautifully here, of course, just like everything she did.
This was my first Joni album and possibly favorite. She can do no wrong in my mind. Just so special.
I think the emotional turmoil relates to both the split from Graham Nash and regrets about having given up her child for adoption. The point is that Christmas is a time for families and she has severed her ties with the most important people in her life and is alone and feels lonely. Love has eluded her and she wonders if she has made the right decisions and will she ever find tru happiness. The river would provide her with an escape route - to escape herself and her predicament as much as anything else. Much of Joni's work is highly autobiographical and written, sung and performed from the heart.
Ahh, thanks for doing that one Justin!🙂👍 Glad you enjoyed it for what it is. It's not a track I listen to everyday either, but it is one that always finds its way onto my Christmas playlist. It's kind of nice to have a quiet and reflective moment at Christmas too. I love the place and feeling Joni is coming from with this lyric. It fits beautifully into the melancholy and soul searching of her Blue album. Highly recommended.
Thanks Carter; its a perfectly nice and quiet piece
It just occurred to me that you haven't finished this album! Woohoo! Something to look forward to.
beautiful song. Actually heard it for the 1st time last december
❤️❤️❤️
"The song is about the recent breakup of a romantic relationship, with the singer longing to escape her painful emotional bonds. It is thought to be inspired by Mitchell's 1968-1970 relationship with Graham Nash." ~ Wikipedia "Willy" was another song she wrote about the relationship and Nash wrote, "Our House" (performed by Crosby, Stills, & Nash) about the home they shared together in Laurel Canyon. His song "Simple Man" was about their breakup as well.
Dude you listen to all the best music: Joni Mitchell, Steely Dan, Genesis, etc. And I sometimes tune in specifically to hear songs I haven't heard before because I know you like interesting stuff. Plus your audio setup sounds amazing. I'd love to hear your thoughts on John Prine's "Hello In There". Also Ella Fitzgerald's version of "Sophisticated Lady" from the Duke Ellington songbook. Anyway, keep up the good work.
I really appreciate that Kevin; I love listening to music from every corner! Ty for the recommendation
@Kevin Merck:
Joni's musical colleague and incredible bassist in his own right, Jaco Pastorius, does a beautiful rendition of "Sophisticated Lady " with harmonica legend Toots Thielman--- just wanted to recommend that , for another amazing version of Duke's classic.
Love this song. ''Blue'' was the first album I heard from Joni. A lot of people mentioned her song ''Help Me'' from ''Court and Spark''. Great great song also.
I'm a helpless Joni fan - Blue was gifted to me at a young age and I've never recovered (nor would I want to). Another for the desert island (think I'm up to 50+ by now)
love this song such great imagery.
If you have just one JM album this is the one. After this she used more production in her music which is not a bad thing but this is very pure and heartfelt. Also if you are into Hifi this is incredibly recorded.
Ιt' s a timeless masterpiece.
Check out her albums "Court And Spark" and "The Hissing of Summer Lawns". This is the beginning of Joni Mitchell's foray into jazz infused compositions. I had the pleasure of attending one of her concerts in LA (backed up by Tom Scott and the LA Express) in the early 80s. Her catalogue of music is so impressive, it's impossible to compare her to another female artist of the 20th and 21st centuries. And dare I say... most male artists 😉
That was a wonderful song, love her vocals. I loved how the song incorporates Christmas, with Jingle Bells and skating. Good choice and spot on review of the song. The skating on river reference brings back memories for me. We had a creek right beside out home, and we'd constantly play ice hockey on it during the winter growing up. I can also relate to the feeling of being free when I put on a pair of skates.
Hi DR! I hope you got a chance to listen to some of the Joni Mitchell music I recommended. If not, there’s a link in my comment on this video to a 20+ minute live set from 1970 that’s very impressive! I think you’ll love it since you liked “River.” 😊
Thanks for sharing your childhood memory. I’m sure a lot of Canadians (which Joni is) can relate to outdoor ice skating. (I only ever did it in an indoor rink. I missed out!)
@@justintime42000 Oh my god, I feel terrible that I haven't listened to your suggestions yet. I will check them but I forgot what video you posted them in (was it the last video JP did of Joni). So Sorry, I will also check the 20 min video you suggested.
DukesRocks Here’s the link. ua-cam.com/video/dAxjPfWOiqI/v-deo.html
I think the video was “Free Man In Paris,” but this concert video ought to grab you. 😊
Thats amazing, all the memories the song can bring back. Thanks Dukes
If this song and "Little Green" from the same album don't make you cry, you are already dead. I mean, really, that's true of the whole album, but those two are the killers.
Listen to her LPs "Blue," "For the Roses," and, "Court and Spark" -- noting the growth from one LP to the next.
AND: Listen to her song "For Free"!
Hey I haven’t come back to this one in a while love love love you
Joni is brilliant. Her album Blue is my favorite.
TOTAL GOOSEBUMPS THROUGH MY BODY FOR DECADES NOW CAUSE OF THAT GORGEOUS ANGELIC POWERFUL VOICE! :)
The whole album is 'Blue' and then comes 'Carey' which is so joyful.
I do like 'The Last Time I Saw Richard' for obvious reasons.
I like the way you break down and analyze these songs!👍🏻
Thanks Joel, glad you're enjoying it 😄
Just tuned in for this one wow should be excellent getting goosebumps already
Its a good one!
I've always felt that this refers to the loss of her baby which she put up for adoption. 'A Little Green' is another one which I'm pretty sure refers to her daughter. Very thought provoking and full of real emotion. Beautiful.
This song was inspired by her breakup from Graham Nash of CSN & sometimes Y. THAT "weak In the knees" line is proof that you don't have to be crude when discussing sex.
Jingle Bells in a minor key, yet.
Wow -
With River Joni bares her soul like in a blues song.it is about escaping from commitment to another.Gutwrenching stuff indeed
Totally agreed Gary
I love that you include such an eclectic mix of music. Keep it up!
Thanks Ian!
No dislikes on this video, amazing 👍🏼👍🏼 Great voice, great analysis
Thank you🙃
She is singing while she is in California. That fills out the meaning of the lyrics.
This is one of the songs all the reaction channels need to experience.
Its quite amazing isnt it?
Talented.
Wait a minute... Is it just me or there is a known melody hidden in the piano score... Some notes (at the beginning and at the end) I think inspired from another song ? Oh. OK. I got it. It's from the Lucky Strike commercial !
arielquarante 😂😂😂
In the remoter parts of Canada rivers become ice roads and are the most practical way of travelling long distance.
The reason why it came up in Spotify as most requested song is because it’s been featured in several music and TV shows, and it’s been covered by more recording artists than I could name, because everyone makes Christmas albums to try to guarantee they’ll get something played on radio stations at Christmastime.
Because Christmas isn’t always a happy time for everyone, a lot of people can relate to just feeling “blue.”
I love the melancholy feeling in this song, her voice, the melody, the lyrics, pretty much everything. But I think “California” and “A Case Of You” from this album are much better songs. Spotify doesn’t recommend the best songs; just the most searched and played.
You’ve done a few entire albums from male bands. I think you should review this whole album, or “Court And Spark” (which has more upbeat tunes), to give a great female artist equal time and respect. You’d be a “first listen” trailblazer if for every 3-4 albums by guys you review, you give a girl a listen! Even if guys are playing in the band, as long as a woman is singing lead vocals, it would qualify. Please think about it, at least.
I really liked your analysis of “River” and how you picked up on the subtleties and the strengths.
There’s a live video of Joni Mitchell about 20 minutes long that has two of the “Blue” songs on it. It’s just exquisite, and you will really feel the extent of what her artistry was about in 1970. It’s just her, either with a guitar or piano. Anyone who has a heart will find it melting, watching and listening to Joni Mitchell sing such touching and well crafted songs. I dare you to watch the whole video and not get a tear in your eye! ua-cam.com/video/dAxjPfWOiqI/v-deo.html
I loved to ice skate when I was a kid. I did it for the last time when I was about 30. NYC has 3 outdoor rinks and one big indoor one, and I thought about going but I never did. It’s too late for me now as I had to get a knee replacement 3 years ago and it never healed properly. Get out there and skate while you can! I always skated in indoor rinks in DC/VA. We went sledding outside in the snow. You’d have to be crazy to skate on the Potomac River, no matter how frozen it got. The rivers surrounding Manhattan have been frozen solid in winter before and people have skated on the Hudson but NYC has always had daredevil types. No thanks ...
Cathy Wood I can’t remember if we discussed Sandy Denny before, but I was reminded of her when Justin mentioned “just a lady and a piano “. She did similar piano pieces on BBC programs. Solo, John the Gun, and Like An Old Fashioned Waltz popped up on Spotify. Would one of her albums be worthy of a complete listen? Fotheringay? Liege and Lief? Rendezvous?
rtwbikerider Absolutely! I’d love that. Sandy Denny had a unique voice.
Thank you Cathy for the comment and the idea; I will consider it.
Sarah McLachlan has a brilliant cover of this on her Christmas album.
Believe it or not, Robert Downey, Jr. did a creditable cover of this song.
Interesting, I'll have to look for that
@@JustJP Downey sang it on the late-nineties show "Ally McBeal." The song gained lots of exposure and popularity because of that performance.
Oh my, I did NOT know this!!!!
Try some of her songs that aren’t reacted to by almost everyone on UA-cam. Her catalogue is huge and diverse. Thanks though, for sharing Joni.
Ty D! Ive done quite a bit from her already, but plan on more
Try "Raised on Robbery" from her "Court & Spark" album. Not a ballad: Robbie Robertson on guitar, Joe Sample on piano, and your lyric analysis will be fun .
RIGHT ON DUDE, RIGHT ON JUSTIN, VERYYYYYYYYYYYY NICE!!! :)
“It’s been done before.” Well, in 1973, it had been done before by . . . Joni Mitchell. JM invented the confessional singer-songwriter genre.
You're the boss. Check out tracks off Hejira, more jazzy but still great.
Ty ChrisA
Bittersweet.
It's interesting that you said Joni sent Graham Nash a telegram to say their relationship was over. In the song which is said to be about him, she says he was the one who said goodbye, because she made him (by her behaviour).
To everyone who likes Joni M. and doesn't understand a word of Dutch, I would like for you to listen to Maaike Opboter singing 'ik mis je'. It's on UA-cam and I would recommend to choose her audition version and tell me if this song appeals to you or not...she has such a delicate voice like Joni but as you won't understand what she is singing about...do you still like it or not. I can give you a translation if you want one because the lyrics are quite special too. It's about her dad dying when she was really young and how she misses him but she is reasuring that she'll be fine by herself 1nd he does not need to worry still and can be at peace in Heaven. Thnx
One of Canada's best !
🍁
All and all possibly Canada's very best.
I can't believe I missed this reaction.....! Joni's such a vocal actress and poet. You are so right about the small details. That's artistry, and is essential to make music, to make it become alive. Her lyrics are very revealing and I especially love how she breaks up her words. I had the great good fortune to see her more than once live, and I was at her birthday celebration (complete with cake) in Los Angeles just before she got sick. She didn't perform, but spoke to the audience and screened a dance film with her music. She is a Queen. When I was 17 I learned many of her songs and the different tunings she used for them. I bought a dulcimer, which during this time of isolation, I am returning to for solace. She was a great musical influence for a young female singer to look up to. Thank you for reacting to these songs that take us all back, and maybe brings new listeners to Joni!
oh man, this one never fails to make me cry! the only christmas song i can listen to honestly!! this entire album is a masterpiece i am so glad you got to hear this song and i looooved your breakdown of it as always! if you feel like it [not a suggestion for a future video just if you're curious], check out this cover of river - just as touching and melancholic if not more - by one of my favorite and very underrated bands ua-cam.com/video/85jE5J-vDSI/v-deo.html brings me to tears just as easily!
Milica Matović I loved Flyte’s version. It’s great! Loved the harmonies especially. They gave it all the tenderness and passion it deserves. Brought a tear to my eye ... These guys are very talented. Thanks so much for posting the link. Which originals of theirs would you recommend? I want to hear more! 🎹🎸🎤😊
@@justintime42000 ah I'm so glad you liked it! they only have one album out so far and a couple of EPs I believe so you can't go wrong no matter what you choose! I enjoy all of their covers on their channel as they are full of harmonies and raw emotion, as for the original songs, if I must pick, Faithless and Cathy Come Home are a great introduction to their sound!
and I just now noticed your name haha! Cathy Come Home is an excellent choice then
Milica Matović Thanks for the recommendations! I like Flyte even more now that I know they did a song with my name in it, and with the correct spelling at that! 🤣🤣
@@justintime42000 they are wonderful lads! I'm sure you will enjoy everything you hear from them 😊
Car on a Hill
Cactus Tree
Urge for Going
Carey
The Circle Game
You Turn Me on I'm a Radio
Big Yellow Taxi
⭐️⭐️
Great reaction as usual. Have been listening to this song for the best part of 45 years. Never gets boring. Please give it another listen and listen this time to how she plays the piano to match the notes she is singing. Hopefully you will look into the rest of the massive catalogue. Maybe try some of the jazzier albums this time, "Hissing of Summer Lawns", "Hejira", or "Court and Spark" Keep on rocking and I will keep on watching.
Thanks John; I'll definitely be revisiting more
There are only a few woman who I would slay a dragon for!
You're definitely my favorite song analyst, Justin (I guess cuz your ears pay attention to the same things my ears pay attention to :). I certainly hope you don't miss reviewing 2 of my absolute favorite Joni tunes. One is *"Songs To Aging Children Come"* which is so unique, yet so stunningly beautiful, it is deserving of your cogent analysis. (It was featured in a movie)
ua-cam.com/video/3q2jiRUVLgI/v-deo.html&ab_channel=JoniMitchell-Topic
The other one I'll recommend is *"Chelsea Morning"* which was one of the cheeriest of Joni's early songs, a delight to hear. There's this vid of her singing it on a late night show special where you can not only hear the song sung (with those ascending high notes you love) but also get to see just how captivating her stunning physical beauty was at that time, combined with unbelievable compositional+singing talent. You'll see why we all fell in love with her :) ua-cam.com/video/DXe95iTtci0/v-deo.html&ab_channel=henhenstoll
Thank you so much😀
Not hard to see why she has had an impact on so many artists (Tori Amos and Kate Bush come to mind first).
This is a Christmas song. You’re a bit late. 😆 Beautiful song and nice analysis.
Oh I'm always late :D Thank you!
hippy music
Can you react to Transatlantic duel with the devil they are a prog rock supergroup
Sending a suggestion; Counting Crows "August and Everything After". That's their first album. They did it live on the 25th anniversary.
ua-cam.com/video/Ae2Nh0ObSoo/v-deo.html
Suggest you react to the song at 39:25
"just being Joni Mitchell...?" Mmhmmm.
Sounds like maybe you got some ADHD my guy. I recommend the ADHD ep. of the Ologies podcast to EVERYONE, with and without ADHD. For real.
Joni is a Jedi ⚡