I was jogging today, listening to my old Joni Mitchell CD collection on my Walkman and I actually broke down into tears at one point. The memories of those days in the late 60s when I first discovered her music geysered to the surface as I cantered at a brisk pace. I felt both silly and profound, all at the same time. LOL! What an impact she had on me when her first album began to play New York FM radio... 
"Come, fly with me, Alison Steele, the Nightbird, at WNEW-FM, until dawn.” 

It was 1968 and after telling everyone about her, I saw her live at the earliest opportunity at The Bitter End...she was actually second bill to Dave Van Ronk. If you know the Bitter End, you know the seating was limited and close...very close. That night there were only about 8 other people there...it was winter and cold in the city. She played two sets. I stayed for both and left her with my heart. 
I confess that she has been my lifelong Muse and if you don't know her music (maybe you know the name but not the lady's work)...then rectify that condition by listening to her. You'll be amazed. Her influences have resonated throughout music for the last 35 years. I've encountered few authentic geniuses in this life but Joni Mitchell might be one of them.
FYI: Did you know that she wrote the iconic song that the Clintons named their only daughter after..."Chelsea Morning"...listen to those lyrics and tell me what Bill and Hillary were thinking then?*