The best Joni Mitchell albums

20 records, ordered by how much we can tell you about each one — not by chart position.

Start here

Blue

Blue

1971

Showcases her intricate melodies and emotional depth in a cohesive collection, making it a strong introduction to her sound and lyrical themes.

  1. 1
    Taming the Tiger

    Taming the Tiger

    1998

    A reflective blend of jazz-infused folk and art rock, exploring complex emotions with intricate melodies and poetic lyrics.

  2. 2
    Don Juan's Reckless Daughter

    Don Juan's Reckless Daughter

    1977

    A sprawling exploration of jazz, folk, and world music, moving through lush soundscapes with lyrical depth and emotional resonance.

  3. 3
    Shine

    Shine

    2007

    A reflective blend of jazz-inflected folk and pop, showcasing Mitchell's introspective lyricism against lush musical landscapes.

  4. 4
    Wild Things Run Fast

    Wild Things Run Fast

    1982

    A vibrant blend of jazz-infused melodies and introspective lyrics, capturing the essence of freedom and fleeting moments.

  5. 5
    Mingus

    Mingus

    1979

    A fusion of jazz, folk, and experimental sounds, Mingus showcases Joni Mitchell's innovative approach to songwriting and instrumentation.

  6. 6
    Song to a Seagull

    Song to a Seagull

    1968

    A delicate blend of folk melodies and introspective lyrics, enveloped in Joni Mitchell's ethereal vocals and intricate guitar work.

  7. 7
    Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm

    Chalk Mark in a Rain Storm

    1988

    A rich tapestry of jazz-inflected folk woven with introspective lyrics and eclectic instrumentation that reflects both personal and global themes.

  8. 8
    Turbulent Indigo

    Turbulent Indigo

    1994

    A tapestry of introspective lyrics woven through jazz-inflected melodies and haunting folk arrangements, reflecting personal struggles and societal observations.

  9. 9
    For the Roses

    For the Roses

    1972

    Folk-infused melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a tapestry of personal reflections and societal observations.

  10. 10
    Clouds

    Clouds

    1969

    Ethereal melodies intertwine with introspective lyrics, creating a vivid tapestry of emotional landscapes and personal reflections.

  11. 11
    Ladies of the Canyon

    Ladies of the Canyon

    1970

    Melodic folk-rock weaves through vivid storytelling, balancing personal introspection with social commentary in a lush sonic tapestry.

  12. 12
    Travelogue

    Travelogue

    2002

    A reflective blend of orchestral arrangements and soft folk melodies that reimagines Joni Mitchell's classic songs with emotional depth.

  13. 13
    Court and Spark

    Court and Spark

    1974

    A seamless blend of jazz, folk, and pop that captures the complexity of love and personal introspection.

  14. 14
    The Hissing of Summer Lawns

    The Hissing of Summer Lawns

    1975

    An intricate tapestry of jazz-inflected folk, where lyrical depth meets vibrant instrumentation in a kaleidoscopic exploration of modern life.

  15. 15
    Night Ride Home

    Night Ride Home

    1991

    A contemplative blend of jazz-inflected folk and introspective storytelling, reflecting on personal and societal themes with lyrical depth.

  16. 16
    Hejira

    Hejira

    1976

    A haunting blend of introspective folk and jazz, weaving intricate narratives through lush instrumentation and Mitchell's ethereal vocals.

  17. 17
    Blue

    Blue Start here

    1971

    A haunting blend of confessional lyrics and delicate melodies that capture the essence of heartbreak and longing.

  18. 18
    Both Sides Now

    Both Sides Now

    2000

    A jazz-inflected collection where lush orchestration underlines Joni Mitchell's introspective interpretations of classic standards.

  19. 19
    Dog Eat Dog

    Dog Eat Dog

    1985

    A fusion of jazz-inflected rhythms and sharp, cynical lyrics that capture the complexities of modern life.

  20. 20
    Ghosts

    Ghosts