Joni Mitchell, a prominent figure in the folk revolution, had her own fascination with rock ‘n’ roll during her teenage years. Among the pioneering figures who captured her heart, Chuck Berry emerged as an influential force. Despite their sonic differences, Berry’s music left an indelible mark on Mitchell’s artistry, and she believes that no one has ever mastered rock music better than him.
Chuck Berry’s Impact on Joni Mitchell
As a teenager, Mitchell found herself captivated by Chuck Berry’s groundbreaking track, ‘Johnny B. Goode.’ The song became a pivotal soundtrack to her life, and she immersed herself in it with pure joy. She revealed:
“I used to go to the Avenue H swimming pool in Saskatoon [Canada]…I danced on the patio to ‘Johnny B. Goode.’ It was one of the main, most played records there. He was the best rock and roller ever. He was a G.O.A.T. [Greatest of All Time]. The king of rock and roll.”
The Influence of Chuck Berry on ‘Big Yellow Taxi’
Mitchell’s hit song ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ may have a different sound, but Berry’s influence is apparent. She acknowledged, “rock and roll is just boogie woogie played on guitar,” drawing parallels between Berry’s rhythmic style and her own composition. While the influences weren’t imitative, Mitchell recognized that ‘Big Yellow Taxi’ had elements reminiscent of a Chuck Berry song, particularly in its form and rhythm.
A Timeless Impact
Mitchell’s appreciation for Chuck Berry extended beyond her teenage years. In a 2005 interview, she recalled the rock ‘n’ roll fever that engulfed the youth when the genre emerged. ‘Johnny B. Goode’ and other Berry classics like ‘Tutti Frutti’ fueled their passion for dancing. Berry’s genius and legacy continue to inspire each new generation, leaving an enduring mark on the world of music.
Listen to ‘Johnny B. Goode’ in the vide below: