Brandi Carlile: A Deep Dive into Her Upcoming SNL Performance and Her Friendship with Joni Mitchell
Brandi Carlile is set to make her mark once again on the iconic stage of Saturday Night Live (SNL) as the musical guest on November 1, 2025. This appearance marks her third solo stint on the show, where she will promote her latest album, Returning to Myself. The album poignantly features a tribute song to the legendary folk artist Joni Mitchell, highlighting the deep connection between these two powerhouse musicians.
How to Watch Saturday Night Live
For fans eager to catch Carlile’s performance, Saturday Night Live airs on NBC every Saturday at 11:30 PM ET/10:30 PM CT. Those who miss the live broadcast can stream it the next day on Peacock, ensuring that fans won’t miss any of the musical magic or comedic antics.
The Tribute: “Joni”
The centerpiece of Carlile’s new album, a song titled “Joni,” serves as a heartfelt homage to the multi-talented Mitchell. This relationship has blossomed over the years, with Carlile describing Mitchell as one of her closest friends and lifelong inspirations. They’ve performed together during the Joni Jam shows, where Mitchell celebrated her storied career alongside various artists.
In 2022, Carlile had the honor of introducing Mitchell on stage at the Newport Folk Festival, a moment that turned into an emotional reunion for fans and musicians alike. This performance was particularly significant as it marked Mitchell’s return to live music after a challenging health battle, including a brain aneurysm in 2015. For many, witnessing her on stage again was a moment of magic that encapsulated resilience.
The Newport Folk Festival Surprise
At Newport, Carlile beamed with pride as she stood beside Mitchell, who skillfully played a guitar solo and sang classics. It was a surprise for the audience, as Mitchell had largely stepped away from performing, making her return even more poignant. Carlile has expressed her admiration for Mitchell’s determination, emphasizing that the artist’s return to the stage was entirely a result of Mitchell’s own courage and skill.
In an essay on Mitchell’s official website, Carlile reflected on the event, stating, “Everything that she has overcome with her mind and her body belongs to her.” Carlile’s humility shines through in her words, making it clear that she sees her role as a supporter rather than a driving force behind Mitchell’s resurgence.
The Friendship Begins
The seeds of Carlile and Mitchell’s friendship were planted during a tribute concert for Mitchell’s 75th birthday in 2018. Carlile’s electrifying duet performance of “A Case of You” with Kris Kristofferson was merely the beginning. Their bond deepened during intimate dinner gatherings, where discussions would often turn to music and life. Mitchell, who had distanced herself from performing, recognized the beauty in collaboration with Carlile, leading to the birth of the Joni Jams—an eclectic mix of well-known and aspiring musicians enjoying music together in an informal setting.
Challenges and Resilience
Carlile remained a steadfast anchor for Mitchell through her recovery journey. Her loyalty and companionship became even more meaningful as they shared the trials and triumphs of returning to the stage post-illness. Carlile has stated that her connection with Mitchell has only grown deeper through these experiences.
During performances, such as at Newport, Carlile often found herself awestruck by collaborating with someone she revered. The joy of working with Mitchell is reflected in how Carlile describes those moments as euphoric, revealing a personal side to the artist often unseen by the public.
The Depth of “Returning to Myself”
After the conclusion of her tour with Mitchell, Carlile felt a strong urge to explore her personal journey through her music. This led her to compose Returning to Myself, where themes of self-discovery, motherhood, and love interlace with her reflections on her friendship with Mitchell. The song “Joni” captures the essence of their relationship beautifully, combining tenderness with an acknowledgment of their differences.
An Insight into Their Bond
In “Joni,” Carlile writes lyrics that reflect her deep appreciation for Mitchell’s authenticity. She described the song’s creative process, mentioning how Mitchell’s reaction to the lyrics led to a playful exchange, showcasing the light-hearted and respectful rapport they share. Despite the emotional weight of the song, there’s an undeniable warmth and camaraderie that shines through in their interactions.
Future Collaborations and Lasting Friendship
Despite moving on from their collaborative performances, Carlile remains devoted to her friendship with Mitchell. She emphasizes that their bond won’t diminish, noting that the joy they experience together, sans the pressures of performance, is liberating. This newfound freedom allows them to enjoy each other’s company without the weight of expectation.
Brandi Carlile is poised for another captivating evening on Saturday Night Live this November, and with her heartfelt new album and tribute to Joni Mitchell, fans can expect a performance filled with emotional depth and musical brilliance. Whether you’re familiar with her journey or a newcomer to her work, witnessing Carlile share her story—and her friendship with Mitchell—will undoubtedly be a highlight of the season. Tune in to celebrate these incredible artists and their unique contributions to music and friendship.