Joni Mitchell

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
Just before our love got lost you said
"I am as constant as a northern star"
And I said, "Constantly in the darkness
Where's that at?
If you want me I'll be in the bar"

[Verse 2]
On the back of a cartoon coaster
In the blue TV screen light
I drew a map of Canada
Oh, Canada
With your face sketched on it twice
[Chorus]
Oh, you are in my blood like holy wine
You taste so bitter and so sweet
Oh, I could drink a case of you, darling
And I would still be on my feet
Oh, I would still be on my feet
[Verse 3]
Oh, I am a lonely painter
I live in a box of paints
I'm frightened by the devil
And I'm drawn to those ones that ain't afraid
[Verse 4]
I remember that time you told me, you said
"Love is touching souls"
Surely you touched mine
'Cause part of you pours out of me
In these lines from time to time
[Chorus]
Oh, you are in my blood like holy wine
You taste so bitter and so sweet
Oh, I could drink a case of you, darling
Still I'd be on my feet
I would still be on my feet

[Verse 5]
I met a woman, she had a mouth like yours
She knew your life
She knew your devils and your deeds
And she said, "Go to him, stay with him if you can
But be prepared to bleed"

[Chorus]
Oh, but you are in my blood, you are my holy wine
You're so bitter, bitter and so sweet
Oh, I could drink a case of you, darling
Still I'd be on my feet
I would still be on my feet

Joni Mitchell’s A Case of You is widely considered one of the most iconic and enduring songs of all time, with its poetic ode to an inescapable love having resonated with audiences across generations. From its debut on the album Blue in 1971, the song has captured the hearts and souls of millions around the world, embodying Mitchell’s unique talent for crafting songs that are both profound and deeply personal.

About A Case of You

At its core, A Case of You is a song about the joy and pain of being in love, even when that love is complicated and fraught with difficulty. Mitchell’s lyrics are achingly honest and poignant, capturing the complex emotions and contradictions that come with falling deeply for someone. From the opening lines (“Just before our love got lost, you said / ‘I am as constant as a northern star’”), the song sets a tone of bittersweet longing that resonates throughout.

What sets A Case of You apart from so many other love songs is the way in which Mitchell weaves her personal experiences and emotions into the song. The lyrics are filled with references to Mitchell’s own life, including her love of red wine and how it reminds her of her lover (”You taste so sweet and I drank you down / Like the red wine”) as well as her own insecurities about being an artist in the public eye (“I am a lonely painter / I live in a box of paints”).

This deeply intimate and personal approach to songwriting is what has made Mitchell such a beloved figure in the world of music, and A Case of You is a prime example of her talent for connecting with listeners on a deeply emotional level. For more than 50 years, the song has been a staple of pop culture, appearing in films like Practical Magic and being covered by countless artists, including Prince, Tori Amos, and k.d. lang.

At its heart, A Case of You is a song about the things that matter most in life – love, loss, and the beauty of the human experience. It is a timeless classic that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for generations to come.

If you haven't listened to it yet, you're missing out on one of the most enduring songs in the history of popular music. A song that has won countless hearts with its heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody. Regardless of the style of music you like or the generation you belong to, A Case of You is one of those songs that has the power to touch everyone.

The song is a combination of rock, pop, and folk music. Its unique sound has set it apart from other love songs. With Mitchell’s strong and distinctive voice, the song is recognizable and unforgettable the minute it begins playing. It’s the kind of song that makes you feel a wide range of emotions. From the joy of being in love to the sadness of lost love. From the struggle of human vulnerability to the contentment of being with someone you love. It’s as complex and beautiful as real-life love is.

A Case of You is a song where every word counts. It’s a perfect example of the economy of language, as Mitchell says more in four minutes than some artists do in a whole album. Her words are carefully crafted, and they convey a depth of emotion that is unparalleled.

The song’s chorus is arguably the most powerful part of the song. The repetition of the phrase "I could drink a case of you and still be on my feet" is haunting and beautiful in equal measure. It’s as if Mitchell is saying that no matter how much she drinks in love, it will never be enough and that it’s a drug she can’t quit.

The instrumentation on A Case of You is simple yet effective. It features Mitchell’s vocal and guitar work, along with James Taylor's guitar and Russ Kunkel's drums. This stripped-down approach places the focus squarely on Mitchell’s voice and lyrics, allowing listeners to fully experience the emotional depth of the song.

All of these elements come together to create a song that is both timeless and unforgettable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Joni Mitchell or simply someone looking to experience the power of a truly great song, A Case of You is a must-listen classic that is sure to leave a lasting impact on your heart and soul.

• Release Date: June 22, 1971
• Artist: Joni Mitchell