What makes Coyote by Joni Mitchell notable?

'Coyote' garnered significant attention for its innovative fusion of genres and became a staple in Mitchell's live performances. The song also contributed to the broader acceptance of jazz elements in popular music during the late 1970s, influencing countless artists across various genres. When 'Coyote' was released in 1977, Joni Mitchell was at a pivotal point in her career, following the success of her acclaimed album 'Hejira'. This track showcases her artistic evolution as she embraced jazz influences and complex arrangements, marking a departure from her earlier folk-centric style.

How many songs are on Coyote?

Coyote has 1 track, running approximately 5 minutes.

Coyote

Joni Mitchell · 1977

5 min · 1 track · folk music

A hypnotic blend of jazz-infused folk, layered with Mitchell's intricate storytelling and emotive vocal delivery.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Coyote (2024 Remaster) — This track serves as a prime example of Mitchell's signature storytelling, intertwining personal narratives with vivid imagery against a jazz-inflected backdrop.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

The song showcases strong writing and distinct vocal delivery, though it is a single with limited context.

What we noticed

The track features a steady, syncopated rhythm that drives the song forward while allowing for intricate vocal phrasing.
Mitchell's vocal delivery alternates between soft, intimate moments and more powerful, soaring sections, creating dynamic contrast.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases a fusion of jazz and folk, marking a departure from her earlier sound.
Themes: Los Angeles nights· jazz-infused storytelling· wanderlust and longing
Career context: When 'Coyote' was released in 1977, Joni Mitchell was at a pivotal point in her career, following the success of her acclaimed album 'Hejira'. This track showcases her artistic evolution as she embraced jazz influences and complex arrangements, marking a departure from her earlier folk-centric style.
Stylistic neighbors: Laura Nyro· Carole King· Nick Drake

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Coyote (2024 Remaster)

The narrative shifts from reflection to directly addressing the coyote itself evokes a sense of longing and connection.

This shift in address creates an intimate dialogue that transforms the relationship between the speaker and the subject, deepening emotional engagement.