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Joni Mitchell returns to the stage during a 25-song set playing a Parker Fly guitar

  Joni Mitchell (L) and Brandi Carlile perform in concert during "Joni Jam" honoring Joni Mitchell at Gorge Amphitheatre on June 10, 2023 in George, Washington
Joni Mitchell (L) and Brandi Carlile perform in concert during "Joni Jam" honoring Joni Mitchell at Gorge Amphitheatre on June 10, 2023 in George, Washington

Joni Mitchell made a triumphant return to the stage for a headline set of 25-songs on 10 June at the Gorge Amphitheatre in Washington. It marks a remarkable comeback for the Canadian legend following last year's Newport Folk Festival return after she suffered a brain aneurysm in 2015 and had to effectively relearn to play the guitar.

Mitchell played a Parker Fly electric guitar during the set and was joined by a host of guests including Annie Lennox, Blake Mills (who played Joni's guitar on Amelia), Marcus Mumford, Wendy & Lisa, Brandi Carlile and Celisse Henderson.

Opening with her much-loved 1970 song Big Yellow Taxi, Mitchell and her guests' set covered her remarkably rich career and included Both Sides Now, Cactus Tree and a version of Blue performed by Sarah McLachlan.

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Before performing Lady Of The Canyon with her idol, Annie Lennox paid tribute to Mitchell: "Thank you Joni, you gave me inspiration to become what I've become as a singer-songwriter."