Classic Clips: Joni Mitchell “A Case of You” – Universal Amphitheatre, Los Angeles, 1974

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A few weeks ago I was watching BBC Saturday teatime song guessing game show ‘The Hit List’ (I know, but the only other options were the myriad of sporting events besieging the television channels) and was mildly distressed to see no one could identify the absolute classic that is ‘A Case of You’ by Joni Mitchell (although to be completely fair, one of the contestants knew it was Mitchell, but didn’t know the song).

To me, it’s one of the greatest songs ever written; I’m not sure a better opening exists than: “Just before our love got lost you said / “I am as constant as a northern star” / And I said, “Constantly in the darkness / Where’s that at? / If you want me I’ll be in the bar””. Anyway, here is Mitchell performing the song beautifully in 1974.

Later on in the same programme, the contestants also couldn’t identify the Christmas classic that is ‘River’ (covered by the dreary Elle Goulding, but still), which makes me think that maybe that will have to be my next Classic Clips pick.

About Helen Jones 132 Articles
North West based lover of country and Americana.
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Andy Trott

Sometimes, only Joni Michell will do. Such a lovely choice here Helen.