Imagine a world where everyone agrees on the brilliance of a single artist. Sounds impossible, right? Yet, Joni Mitchell comes pretty darn close. Even rock gods have their musical heroes, and for Pink Floyd's David Gilmour, Mitchell isn't just an influence; she's practically woven into the fabric of his being. He has said her music is "so deeply embedded in me”.
It might surprise you, given Gilmour's association with progressive rock, to learn about his deep connection to folk music. But the 1960s folk scene grabbed him tight and never let go. And this is the part most people miss: Gilmour's early musical aspirations were rooted in folk, long before he plugged into the Pink Floyd machine.
Mitchell's rise coincided with Gilmour's entry into Pink Floyd. He wasn't an original member, of course. He joined as Syd Barrett's mental health deteriorated due to heavy drug use. Gilmour’s initial role was to support Barrett, but he quickly became integral to the band's sound, a vital component of their success. Before all the stadium lights and prog-rock epics, Gilmour was busking around Europe with his band Jokers Wild, playing the folk music he loved. This early experience likely shaped his musical sensibilities in ways that are still felt today.
While his career took a decidedly different turn, his love for Mitchell remained a constant. Her records have been a mainstay in his collection for decades. He even highlighted her profound impact during his appearance on BBC Radio 4's "Desert Island Discs". This show asks guests to choose eight recordings they would want with them if stranded on a desert island, and Gilmour selected Mitchell's 'For Free' as one of those essential tracks.
He described 'For Free' as representing Mitchell's internal conflict, her struggle as a wealthy artist grappling with her conscience. It's a powerful interpretation, but here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue that Gilmour is projecting his own feelings about success and artistic integrity onto Mitchell's work. What do you think?
'For Free' comes from Mitchell's iconic album Ladies of the Canyon. The song itself is a masterful piece of storytelling. Inspired by a talented street musician in New York City who played for the love of it, not for money, it prompted Mitchell to question her own motivations and the nature of her success. This introspection is a hallmark of her songwriting, making her music deeply relatable even to those who haven't walked in her shoes.
Beyond her lyrical prowess, Gilmour also admires Mitchell's often-overlooked guitar playing. He believes she doesn't get enough credit for her instrumental skills. And that's saying something, coming from one of the most celebrated guitarists of all time!
In a remarkable gesture, Gilmour famously auctioned off a large portion of his guitar collection for charity. During the auction, he was asked about his influences and how he developed his unique sound. His response included Mitchell, alongside legends like Pete Seeger, Hank Marvin, and Jeff Beck. He said, "I copied – don’t be afraid to copy – and eventually something that I suppose that I would call my own appeared.” This highlights the importance of learning from others, even those seemingly outside your genre, in developing a personal style.
He further reiterated Mitchell's influence in an interview with NPR, citing her alongside other folk giants as forming the "bedrock" of his musical style. It's clear that her impact goes far beyond a casual appreciation; it's a fundamental part of his musical identity.
Gilmour's admiration positions Mitchell as a true icon, an assessment few would dispute. Albums like Blue and Ladies of the Canyon redefined the singer-songwriter genre, establishing a template that artists continue to emulate today. But this is also what made her a star in the first place. Her originality is what set her apart, a quality that cannot be copied.
So, what do you think? Is Joni Mitchell truly a universally beloved artist, or are there dissenting voices out there? And do you agree with Gilmour's interpretation of 'For Free'? Let us know in the comments below!
