Joni Mitchell Unveils ‘Joni’s Jazz’: A 61-Track Retrospective Celebrating Her Jazz Legacy

Legendary singer-songwriter Joni Mitchell has announced the upcoming release of Joni’s Jazz, a comprehensive 61-track compilation that delves into her extensive exploration of jazz music. Scheduled for release on September 5, 2025, via Rhino Records, the collection will be available in digital formats, as well as 8-LP and 4-CD box sets, complete with liner notes, rare photographs, and Mitchell’s original artwork.

Spanning from her 1968 debut album Song to a Seagull to her 2022 performance at the Newport Folk Festival, Joni’s Jazz offers a curated journey through Mitchell’s jazz-influenced works. The compilation features remastered tracks, rare and unreleased live recordings, demos, and alternate takes, highlighting her collaborations with jazz luminaries such as Wayne Shorter, Jaco Pastorius, Herbie Hancock, and Charles Mingus.

Mitchell has dedicated the collection to the late saxophonist Wayne Shorter, whom she described as her favorite collaborator. “It was a joy to play with him,” Mitchell said. “He will be missed, but he will remain alive for me in this music.”

Among the notable inclusions is a previously unreleased 1980 demo of “Be Cool,” a track that later appeared on her 1982 album Wild Things Run Fast. This stripped-down version offers a fresh perspective on the song, showcasing Mitchell’s evolving musical style during that period.

The compilation also features live performances, such as her rendition of “Summertime” at the 2022 Newport Folk Festival, and tracks from acclaimed albums like Hejira, Mingus, and Both Sides Now. These selections underscore Mitchell’s seamless integration of jazz elements into her songwriting and performance.

Mitchell’s foray into jazz began in the mid-1970s, marked by collaborations with bassist Jaco Pastorius on albums like Hejira and Don Juan’s Reckless Daughter. Her partnership with Charles Mingus culminated in the 1979 album Mingus, a tribute to the jazz legend that blended Mitchell’s lyrical prowess with Mingus’s compositions.

In recent years, Mitchell has experienced a resurgence in live performances, including appearances at FireAid and the 2024 Grammy Awards. These events have been met with critical acclaim, reaffirming her enduring influence in the music industry.

Joni’s Jazz serves as both a testament to Mitchell’s artistic versatility and a celebration of her contributions to the jazz genre. The compilation offers listeners an opportunity to experience the depth and breadth of her musical journey through the lens of jazz.