Joni Mitchell Credits Coma with Quitting Smoking, Accepts Juno Lifetime Award

Joni Mitchell accepted a lifetime achievement award at the Juno Awards on Saturday. The presentation was made by Mark Carney, whom the ceremony introduced as Canada’s prime minister.

Carney’s tribute

Carney praised Mitchell’s songwriting and influence. He noted her songs have been covered more than 8,000 times.

He singled out Both Sides Now. He contrasted Mitchell’s 1969 recording with her 2000 revisitation.

Carney called Mitchell “one of the greatest artists of all time.” His remarks emphasised the emotional range in her work.

Mitchell’s response

Mitchell walked on stage to receive the honour. She thanked Carney twice and said she was glad to be back in Canada.

She said a 2015 brain aneurysm changed her life for the better. Joni Mitchell credited a coma with helping her quit smoking as she accepted the Juno lifetime award.

She described recovery with warmth. Her house filled with nurses, and she now lives with women and a therapist.

Mitchell summed up her experience as a rebirth, saying a catastrophe led to a better life.

Tribute performance

Sarah McLachlan and Allison Russell performed a medley in Mitchell’s honour. They began with A Case Of You and Both Sides Now.

Themed songs continued with Big Yellow Taxi. Mitchell joined onstage to sing a few lines.

She appeared hesitant at times and asked if her mic was on. The audience greeted her contributions with cheers.

Filmogaz.com covered the ceremony and the onstage tributes. The event highlighted Mitchell’s enduring influence.