Generally acclaimed as the most talented female singer-songwriter of her age, Joni Mitchell's influence on later generations has been considerable. Her work has inspired such diverse musicians as Prince, Thomas Dolby, Madonna, Suzanne Vega, and Shawn Colvin. While it is obvious that these artists and many others have tried to follow in her steps, it is equally obvious that none have matched the virtuosity of her work. Both as a recording and a performing artist, Mitchell has maintained the highest of standards throughout her career. Her talents as a songwriter are equalled only by Bob Dylan, with whom she has performed on several occasions.

Born Roberta Joan Anderson on November 7, 1943 in Fort McLeod, Alberta (Canada), Mitchell studied art in Calgary. In those years she also worked as a model and began to play in coffee bars. In 1964 she moved to Toronto, where she married...