Let the Lyrics Lead

Joni Mitchell’s lyrics read like modern psalms—rich, poetic, and full of mystery. She didn’t set lyrics to music; she “sculpted” music around her words.

Joni’s lyrics are poems first, music second. Every chord bend or vocal flutter serves the story. When you’re learning one of her songs, don’t just memorize the notes—listen for the why in her phrasing.

Try reading the lyrics aloud like a poem. Notice the rhythm, the breath, the hesitation. Then go to your instrument and find how the music dances with the words. You’re not just singing—you’re storytelling.

Don’t rush the words. Let the poetry come first. And then, like Joni, let the melody follow.

~Avigail