SONG SO WILD AND BLUE: A Tribute to Joni Mitchell through Song + Story
Thursday, June 27 | 6–9 PM | WANDER Berkshires
WANDER invites you to a transcendent night of music and memoir as we honor the legacy of Joni Mitchell—icon, poet, and visionary—through a special tribute blending live performance and literary reflection.
Acclaimed author Paul Lisicky will read from his newest book, Song So Wild and Blue: A Life with the Music of Joni Mitchell, a gorgeously written meditation on identity, queerness, and the music that shapes our most intimate moments. Paul is the author of seven books, including Later: My Life at the Edge of the World (NPR Best Book of 2020), The Narrow Door (a New York Times Editors' Choice), and Lawnboy. His work has appeared in The New York Times, The Atlantic, Tin House, and more. He is a recipient of fellowships from the Guggenheim Foundation, the NEA, and the Fine Arts Work Center, and currently serves as Professor of English in the MFA Program at Rutgers University-Camden.
Accompanying this literary tribute is a musical journey through Joni’s songbook by Kendra McKinley, whose voice has been described as “tuned honey.” Whether wielding a looping pedal or fronting a full band, Kendra’s shows are luscious and deeply felt. A devoted student of Joni’s alternate tunings, phrasing, and poetic depth, Kendra brings her own soul to these timeless tracks. She’ll perform two sets—opening the evening and again during the post-reading book signing.
Whether you're a lifelong fan of Joni Mitchell or just beginning to discover her magic, this evening is an invitation to listen deeply, feel widely, and gather in tribute to a legend who continues to shape our collective soundscape.
Pre-order your copy of Song So Wild and Blue: A Life with the Music of Joni Mitchell
Schedule:
Doors open at 6 PM
Live set by Kendra McKinley at 6:30 PM
Reading by Paul Lisicky at 7:30 PM
Signing + Second Set to follow reading