Joni Mitchell receives Gershwin Prize at all-star tribute concert in DC

WASHINGTON (WJLA) — Joni Mitchell was honored with the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song at an all-star tribute concert in Washington Wednesday night.

The tribute concert will air on March 31 on PBS stations, featuring performances by James Taylor, Brandi Carlile, Annie Lennox, Herbie Hancock, Cyndi Lauper, Marcus Mumford, Graham Nash, Diana Krall, Angelique Kidjo and Ledisi.

Mitchell, 79, is widely regarded as among the greatest singer-songwriters of her time, with her best-known works including “Chelsea Morning," “Big Yellow Taxi" and “Free Man in Paris."

“Joni Mitchell’s music and artistry have left a distinct impression on American culture and internationally, crossing from folk music with a distinctive voice whose songs will stay with us for the ages,” Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden said in a statement. “Joni Mitchell’s music has so many artists and music lovers all singing her tunes. We are honored to present the Gershwin Prize to this musical genius."”

This is a very prestigious award,” Mitchell said in a statement. “Thank you for honoring me.”

The Gershwin Prize was created in 2007. Previous honorees include Paul Simon, Stevie Wonder, Sir Paul McCartney, songwriting duo Burt Bacharach and the late Hal David, Carole King, Billy Joel, Willie Nelson, Smokey Robinson, Tony Bennett, Emilio and Gloria Estefan, Garth Brooks, and Lionel Richie.

WATCH: WJLA's Kidd O'Shea talks with Librarian of Congress Carla Hayden about why Mitchell was chosen for this year's Gershwin Prize:

Mitchell will be only the third woman to receive the prize and the first Canadian.

In 2021, Mitchell was one of the Kennedy Center Honorees.

A Joni Mitchell Songbook, performed by select singers and a 100-member orchestra, premiered on PBS in November as part of the Next at the Kennedy Center series.

Mitchell was also honored as the MusiCares person of the year before last year's Grammys.

After nearly two decades away, Mitchell returned to the stage in August and plans to perform again this coming June.