"Mingus" represents Joni Mitchell's unique collaboration with jazz legend Charles Mingus, released on June 13, 1979, marking her final studio album for Asylum Records. Recorded both before and after Mingus' passing in January 1979, the album stands as a tribute to him, showcasing Mitchell's experimental and jazz-centric style.
The album features six compositions originally penned by Mingus, with Mitchell adding her lyrical touch to three of them. Additionally, Mitchell contributes two original tracks, along with a revamped version of Mingus' classic "Goodbye Pork Pie Hat," featuring Mitchell's own lyrics. Interspersed throughout the album are five spoken word tracks, referred to as "raps."
Backing Mitchell on this journey are acclaimed musicians like Jaco Pastorius on fretless bass, Wayne Shorter on saxophone, Herbie Hancock on electric piano, Peter Erskine on drums, and Don Alias on percussion. Despite receiving mixed-to-positive reviews from critics, "Mingus" peaked at number 17 in the US. Although "The Dry Cleaner from Des Moines" was released as a single to promote the album, it did not chart.
Mitchell embarked on a tour to support the album from 1979 to 1980, with performances from these concerts later immortalized on the live album "Shadows and Light" (1980), further cementing the legacy of "Mingus" within Mitchell's discography.
