: "Joni" first appeared as a "throwaway" on SZA's SoundCloud in 2021.
: Some fans initially found the autotuned vocals disconnected from the acoustic Elliott Smith sample, with Reddit users debating whether the "trap song from the perspective of Joni Mitchell" concept truly worked. Release Background SZA- joni(perfect timing) EXTENDED VERSION
: The officially released version includes a feature from Don Toliver , adding a new dynamic to the original solo demo. : "Joni" first appeared as a "throwaway" on
: Reviewers from Pitchfork point out the "unreal whistle note of bliss" that ends the track, emphasizing SZA's soft, croon-like harmonies. emphasizing SZA's soft
: The song is viewed as a tribute to SZA's parents and her own resilience, with lyrics exploring themes of moving at one's own pace and striving for perfection.