I think in both Joni and Paul;s case, when they started out, they didn't consciously know they were 'bending' the rules. It just sounded good to them. They have a point in that sometimes it takes someone 'naive' to break new ground. Analyzing both Joni and Lennon/McCartney is like higher math... And I'm not sure someone analytical could have come up with the innovations they have.
BUT, now it's interesting to me to study more mainstream music. I've always been mystified by the ability to write music with 'normal' chords, without turning your guitar inside out. I think it's a lot harder than using alternate tunings. (Perhaps this isn't the case for others...) Anyway, it's the transitions, or progressions in McCartney's music that's interesting, whereas the entire harmonic structure of Joni's music is unusual. At least, that's my take on it. lots of love Anne
