Joni Mitchell

Okay, so this weekend is my big show. I'm part of a community of 10 women vocalists who are honoring the music of the (still living) Joni Mitchell through a tribute concert. Its so weird, I've been on the radio promoting it, we have been in rehearsals with a full professional band, I've been utterly speechless with admiration over the talent of the other women in this show, and I've nearly thrown up from nervousness about this whole thing.

So tonight is opening night, and my whole family will be there, as well as co-workers, friends, random community members, blah blah. I'm so scared I'm going to forget the lyrics to one of my chosen songs and have a full scale breakdown in the middle of the stage and start trying to solve for x like I'm teaching pre-algebra, or list off the chores I have to do when I get home, or pee my pants or shake uncontrollably. One of the songs I'm singing is Carey, which is off of my favorite Joni album, Blue. I'm singing it for my husband, so I really don't want to mess that one up. I'm sure it will be fine(?).

Last night at our dress rehearsal, this really odd lady who is in the show wanted us to turn after the last song and bow to the two large images of Joni that are hanging at the back of the stage. Our producer was there and a little tipsy (damn musicians), so naturally thought it was a great idea. I don't care how fantastic Joni Mitchell is (and she is fantastic), but I'm not bowing, no how. A bunch of us started laughing at the idea, stating that Joni is still very much alive and bowing would be a little over the top, like she had left the land of the living or something. I think we hurt the woman's feelings, but come on. Aside from that though, the rehearsal was amazing. The singing was first rate, and the band backing us was totally wonderful. I am so looking forward to tonight. I just really hope I can hold my own among these women. Wish me luck.