Did Joni Mitchell’s Song Inspire a Grammy-Winning Album?

In February 2023, Harry Styles captured the Album of the Year award at the 65th Grammy Awards. The pop star accepted the prestigious honor for his album, Harry’s House, which also secured victories for Best Pop Vocal Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. Released in May 2022, Harry’s House topped the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom.

Connection to Joni Mitchell

The album’s title, ironically tied to Styles himself, coincidentally shares a name with a song from Joni Mitchell’s 1975 album, The Hissing of Summer Lawns. This song, known for its experimental and quasi-jazz sound, dealt with themes of failing relationships and societal greed, and earned Mitchell a Grammy nomination for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance.

Mitchell’s Reflections on Success

In a 1973 interview with journalist Malka Marom, Mitchell spoke about her journey through varying economic statuses. She highlighted that wealth does not necessarily equate to happiness, saying, “I’ve had the experience of poverty, middle class, now extreme wealth and luxury, and that’s difficult too.”

Was Harry’s House Inspired by Joni Mitchell?

While Styles has not confirmed any direct homage to Mitchell’s song, many speculate there is a connection. Styles has openly admired numerous artists, including Joni Mitchell. During the creation of his 2019 album, Fine Line, he delved deep into Mitchell’s acclaimed 1971 album, Blue. He even sought out Joellen Lapidus, the craftsman behind Mitchell’s dulcimer, and later purchased a dulcimer from her.

Harry Styles and Joni Mitchell

• Styles attended one of Mitchell’s “Joni Jams” at her home, a gathering meant for camaraderie among musicians.
• He performed a cover of Mitchell’s “Big Yellow Taxi” on BBC Radio 2 in February 2020.
• Styles expressed admiration for David Crosby’s album For Free, which was inspired by a Mitchell song.

Although none of these anecdotes confirm that Styles intended to reference Mitchell with his album title, they certainly suggest a possible influence. Styles himself reflected on the concept of home, saying, “I realized that that home feeling isn’t something that you get from a house; it’s more of an internal thing.”

Joni Mitchell’s Response

Joni Mitchell acknowledged Styles’ album title with a positive note, stating “Love the title” on her official social media account following the album’s announcement. This warm reception further highlights the enduring impact of her artistry in contemporary music.

The interplay between Harry Styles and Joni Mitchell continues to spark conversations about influence, legacy, and the emotional resonance of music.