Joni Mitchell Conscious, 'In Good Spirits' After Hospital Scare

Venerated Canadian musician Joni Mitchell has regained consciousness after being admitted to a California hospital yesterday (AEST) after being found passed out at home, it has been confirmed, with the 71-year-old singer-songwriter being described as "awake and in good spirits" in a statement on Facebook.

"Joni was found unconscious in her home this afternoon," a representative wrote on Mitchell's official Wall. "She regained consciousness on the ambulance ride to an L.A. area hospital.

"She is currently in intensive care undergoing tests and is awake and in good spirits. More updates to come as we hear them. Light a candle and sing a song, let's all send good wishes her way."

Mitchell rose to prominence in the mid- to late-20th century as a paradigm-buster, terror of the patriarchy, and poster child for an entire counter-cultural movement, crafting albums steeped in folk, rock, jazz, pop and, eventually, even electronic genres, and remains the subject of worship in many music circles, despite her adamance that the entire industry is a "cesspool".

God, she's awesome. Spare a thought for Joni Mitchell today and wish her a speedy recovery.