Joni Mitchell Shines in a Fiery Elton John Cover at the Hollywood Bowl

On October 20, 2024, a remarkable gathering of legends took place at the Hollywood Bowl in sunny southern California, featuring Joni Mitchell, Elton John, Brandi Carlisle, and Meryl Streep. This event marked Mitchell's first headlining concert in Los Angeles in over twenty years.

The concert featured two sets and showcased an array of Mitchell’s best-known hits alongside her lesser-known tracks. The audience was treated to additional performances by Annie Lennox and Marcus Mumford, among others. A memorable moment occurred when Elton John and Meryl Streep took their seats on stage as the band performed a lively rendition of John’s 1998 song “I’m Still Standing.”

Watch Joni Mitchell Cover Elton John

Joni Mitchell’s performance at the Hollywood Bowl was filled with joy and energy as she celebrated years of her musical journey. The three-hour event, dubbed the Joni Jam, was a showcase of Mitchell's extensive repertoire along with classic favorites from other artists. The atmosphere became electric when Brandi Carlisle introduced their cover of Elton John’s hit, prompting thunderous applause from the audience. The excitement culminated in a standing ovation that reached every corner of the venue.

“This is called ‘I’m Still Standing,’” Mitchell quipped to the crowd, adding humor to the moment. “But I think I have to sing, I’m still sitting after all these years.” Her playful remark reflected her journey following a significant brain aneurysm in 2015, which challenged her ability to walk, talk, and sing. Despite the struggles she faced, Mitchell appeared delighted as she laughed, her voice rich with character, reminiscent of her classic outro in “Big Yellow Taxi,” another song performed that night.

A Performance Unlike Any Other in Recent Times

Choosing to cover “I’m Still Standing” was especially meaningful given Joni Mitchell’s health struggles and remarkable recovery. After her 2015 aneurysm, she slowly rebuilt her strength with the help of Brandi Carlisle, who played a crucial role in bringing her back to the stage. The October 2024 concert was a triumphant return for Mitchell as she took center stage once more, engaging energetically with both the audience and her band. Throughout the performance, she sang with ease, danced, and enjoyed the shared joy of live music, making every moment both playful and empowering.

The chorus of John’s song resonated profoundly in the context of Mitchell's journey: “Don’t you know I’m still standin’ better than I ever did? Lookin’ like a true survivor, feelin’ like a little kid. And I’m still standin’ after all this time, pickin’ up the pieces of my life without you on my mind.”

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