Do the Dixie Chicks Deserve a CMA Nomination?
If one thing surprised me about this year's CMA nominees, it's that Tim McGraw didn't receive a significant nomination -- and the Dixie Chicks did. The only nomination McGraw received when the announcements were made Thursday (Aug. 30) was in the musical event category for the assistance he and Kenny Chesney gave to their friend Tracy Lawrence in recording his hit, "Find Out Who Your Friends Are." The Chicks, on the other hand, are up for vocal group of the year.
My observation about the Chicks is in no way political. I like their music -- a lot -- but I'm not interested in what Natalie Maines has to say about the war and politics. I should point out, too, that I'm also not interested in what any other celebrity has to say about war and politics -- whether it's Charlie Daniels or Toby Keith or Sean Penn or Tim Robbins or ... well ... any of them. There are better sources of information and enlightenment, but I certainly defend everyone's right to freedom of speech.
The surprising thing about the Chicks' vocal group of the year nomination is that they simply didn't do much to earn it during the official eligibility period of July 1, 2006 through June 30, 2007. According to the CMA's official wording, "Singles, albums, music videos and qualifying products for the vocal event must have been first released during the eligibility period." This doesn't specifically address the issue of what qualifies for a vocal group nomination, although but you'd think any accomplishments should take place during the same time span. The Dixie Chicks did not release an album during the eligibility period. And if they released a single to country radio, it must not have received much airplay. Their last single to reach Billboard's country charts, "Not Ready to Make Nice," was released in March 2006.
As I recall, the Dixie Chicks didn't even tour after July 1, 2006, but McGraw sure did. His Soul2Soul tours with wife Faith Hill were among the hottest concert tickets in the U.S. during 2006 and 2007. McGraw's latest album, Let It Go, was released in March and has sold more than 1 million copies. Two of his singles released this year hit the Top 10 -- "Last Dollar (Fly Away)" and "I Need You," the latter a duet with Hill. And surely the CMA voters wouldn't discriminate against McGraw for stealing the show at this year's Academy of Country Music Awards show when he performed "If You're Reading This," a song he co-wrote with the Warren Brothers. He hadn't even formally recorded the song when Let It Go was released, but public demand forced McGraw's management and record label to release the live recording as a single.
The Dixie Chicks did get some airplay on non-country radio stations, so maybe that's what turned the tide for them with CMA voters. Or maybe it's just because there aren't as many vocal groups around, so the competition isn't quite as severe as it is in most of the other categories. And, let's face it, against Rascal Flatts and Little Big Town, the Chicks don't have a snowball's chance of winning.
Wait! I just figured it out! The Chicks' nomination obviously stemmed from Shut Up and Sing, the documentary about the uproar in the aftermath of Maines' infamous comment about George W. Bush. Think about it: Country music is seldom the central theme of a feature film, so this obviously fits within the CMA's mission to "guide and enhance the development of country music throughout the world."
©2008 Country Music Television, Inc., a Viacom company. A division of
Barbara says:
I don’t know how they could ignore Tim MCGraw and Faith Hill and nominate Keith Urban and Allison Krause or Carrie Underwood who doesn’t even want to be a country star and that came from her own mouth. Big mistake on part of whoever does the nominations that Tim and Faith were overlooked. I am tired of the stuff you call country music now and the way they dress. I REALLY HOPE THAT GEORGE STRAIT SWEEPS EVERYTHING HE IS NOMINATED FOR, since you can’t recognize Tim and Faith.
Lee says:
Keith Urban is not a country singer. How the CMA can recognized him as one I don’t understand. George Strait has not had the year Tim McGraw or even Toby Keith has so why was he nominated and Tim and Toby not? Personally I hope Brad Praisley sweeps the awards.
Susan Rabalais says:
Every time nominations are announced for a country award show, I am so angry and shocked when Tim and Faith are not nominated. I thought for sure this time Tim would be nominated for Entertainer of the Year, Male Vocalist along with Album, single of the year, you get the picture. I simply don’t understand it. I was at the ACM award show in May when Tim sang “If You’re Reading This”. When I tell you mouths dropped, tears ran and people clapped that is an understatement! It was the highlight of the night. What about Soul2Soul 2007 & “Let It Go”?
Jennifer says:
Your two comments were my two comments exactly. My first question was, “Where’s Tim McGraw?” and my second question was, “I thought the Chicks had been blackballed by the CMA?” I am a Tim McGraw fan, but not the kind of rabid fan who would get upset if he was not nominated regardless of what he may or may not have achieved. But with the tour and the album, I really can’t see how he missed the male vocalist nod, and I’m surprised that the live version of “Hey Good Lookin’” was nominated in the vocal event category over “I Need You.” Did Tim and Faith do something to tick off the CMA?
Kaye says:
PLEASE-NO DIXIE CHICKS NOMINATIONS. Country music fans do not want to see this. When are you going to learn? It is a real turn-off to country fans.
Paisley, Strait lead 41st CMA Awards Nominees — The 9513 says:
[...] Blogger Calvin Gilbert isn’t sure the Dixie Chicks deserve their Vocal Group nomination, pointing out that their album, Taking The Long Way, was not released during the CMA’s 2007 [...]
Kevin C. says:
Wow, a lot of your information is just wrong about the Dixie Chicks. They certainly were on tour during the eligibility period. All of the North American dates were between July and December 2006. Why they have to have hits at radio to be considered active is beyond me. Their album continued to sell very strongly the entire year, including a few weeks at #1 after the Grammy wins in Feb. I’m actually glad the CMA took a page from the Grammys this year and nominated some of the genre’s best acts that don’t get significant airplay. I’d be very happy to see Alison Krauss win female, for example.
As for the Chicks winning vocal group? Well, they’ve already got four wins in this category and anything will be anti=climactic after sweeping the Grammys. But it was a nice gesture to nominate them. I suspect you’re right that Rascal Flatts will win instead - another act that didn’t put out a new album, but radio did play them to death. Honestly, the fact that Rascal Flatts is expected to easily win over Alison Krauss & Union Station, Little Big Town and Dixie Chicks - three bands that eclipse them musically in every way possible - makes the award itself seem a lot less significant in the first place.
Mary R says:
There will always be some artist overlooked and some fan highly ticked about it. Tim & Faith have been around for a while now and they are not the hot young things that draw broad spectrum attention. I feel that they are very much becoming the “John & June” of today’s country world. Even Elvis continued to sell out concerts while NOT being in the top nominations or charts. Being the icons to follow John, June & Elvis… while sitting on top of the mountain seems pretty OK with me….
Now I do have a beef about the Chets’ & Hazels’ of CMT. They continue, in my humble opinion, to be very bias when it comes to certain country music artist. I would think that the “Old Time” Nashville crowd would be happy (especially dollar wise) that many of the new artist are drawing in fresh first time country followers. And that overall sells are up in country music while down music industry wide. So why make obvious overlooks; crude personal references; flat out insults? What good does it serve to make remarks in writing or radio as to someone’s personal hygiene or their impending career demise? Especially when many of the artist are making CMT good money????
My mama always told me you can draw more bees with honey than vinegar…. So many the recipe needs changing?
My two cents worth.
Holly says:
I have to agree that the tone of some comments by Ms Smith have been less than charitable and very biased at times. Apparently if you don’t pass her certification for being authentic country, you will never get a nod in the column. It would behoove her and the industry to realize that times change. Artists that are bringing sales to the genre are to be saluted even if the music is evolutionary. We are never going to hear another singer like George Jones. Be glad we had him and be willing to embrace the change. That is the only guarantee in this, or any industry.
oh, and DIXIE CHICKS RULE.
OutlawSteph says:
What do “hot young things” (sic) have to do with country music anyhow?
carol says:
Iread all the comments and to me I have to agree about the Dixie Chicks I dont care about their poilitcal stand but they are probably one of the worst groups in country music. There music is simply lousy. As far George Strait goes anybody that dont care for him has no taste in country music he is one of the few people that sounds like country some of these new people are not country.He should have more awards then anyonelsewith all the number one hits he has sung.it all way seems to be the same people every year that are nominated and win entertainer of the year. Brad Praisley I was so glad to here won last year instead of Kenny Chesney or Tim McGraw.
Jackie says:
Well here we go again CMA-Ignoring the last 2 awesome year Tim McGraw and Faith has had- I don’t get it!Their Soul2Soul 2006&2007 were outstanding and tour 2007 was short.I Need You was #1 on CMT Top Twenty Countdown. Tim’s “If Your Reading This” a instant hit, even on internet most brought and requested song. His ‘Last Dollar a smash, His CD “Let It Go” still #4 on chart since it came out in January- what’s wrong with this picture- again I DON:T GET IT!!!
DiAnn says:
First, would everyone please stop saying that Keith Urban is not a country singer or doesn’t want to be. If you have ever heard him interviewed or seen him on stage, you would know that he loves country music. He grew up listening to country music and that’s the genre of music he wants to perform so please stop questioning his loyalty or style of country music.
Second, I am surprised that Tim McGraw was not nominated for any awards and don’t think the Dixie Chicks should have been nominated for any at all. The Chicks have basically turned their back on country music and there are so many more deserving nominees.
Jennifer says:
I am a huge fan of Tim McGraws & the soul2soul with wife Faith Hill is awsome. I love the song & it has so many meanings to it. I think that Tim & Faith should have gotten an award. They are great together, & most of their music comes from their hearts.So yeah really whats wrong with the picture??
Lynn says:
I just wanted to add that country music fans cannot be categorized. Saying “that all country music fans do not want to see the Dixie Chicks nominated” is simply not true. Some may not. Others, such as myself, are thrilled. They put out a fantastic, honest record, which I personally loved. If Mr. Gilbert needs a good reason for why the CMAs nominated them, when others have shunned them — basically, it does not do a lot for the credibility of the establishment to have a group widely regarded as country release a heavily lauded album and tour, and a receive slew of grammys, but no CMA nomination. Other than the Chicks, I will be rooting for George Strait and Alison Krauss!!
cmfan says:
I’m not surprised they weren’t nominated if you compare them to the other artist in those catagories they just don’t compare so quit putting down other artist who worked just as hard to get where they are I’m sorry but tim doesn’t even come close to everyone else who was nominated in the entertainer of the year catagory the only competition to me is keith urban,Brad paisley,and kenny those are concerts and I think it’s sad and childish to not watch the cma awards because things didn’t go your way so get over and quit putting down other artist shame on you people those people work just as hard
Nancy says:
To bad about the Dixie Chicks. Lots of people have talent, but theirs is too controversial to be awarded. Not being patriotic IS an issue and shouldn’t be ignored. Besides from the articles I have seen they have mouths on them that shouldn’t be role models for anyone in country music. Too bad, didn’t like the Grammys either. Maybe someone should start another system for awards. Tim, Faith you could do that and do very well I am thinking.
Sandy says:
As a country music fan and an American with great pride, I am here to say I will not be watching the CMA awards this year with the 3 girls that want to be known as “Dixie Chicks” being on or nominated. I’ve not forgotten about the slurring remarks they made about our President and Toby Keith. What they said was a slap in the face to the soldiers that help preserve their right to say what they want and they dont even appreciate what they are doing. They need to have guns put in their hands and shipped over there to serve their country to learn Freedom Does Not Come Free as Toby sings.
Kevin C. says:
I can’t help but be amused by those who claim they love freedom but hate those who exercise it, and those who are feeble-minded enough to confuse support for the troops and the country with support for the policies of the president. Who wants to wager that these same people will be horrified - horrified! - by the policies of the next Democratic president and feel it’s their patriotic duty to speak out against that president in protest!
As a Democrat, patriot and huge Dixie Chicks fan, I’m thrilled to see these ladies nominated. The confused, incoherent dead-enders who are so angry about the nomination? That’s the icing on the cake!
ronlpd says:
Here is the problem with the Dixie Chicks summed up by Maines herself:
Maines commented, “The entire country may disagree with me, but I don’t understand the necessity for patriotism. Why do you have to be a patriot? About what? This land is our land? Why? You can like where you live and like your life, but as for loving the whole country … I don’t see why people care about patriotism.” London Telegraph, (can’t post the link because of CMT’s website rules)
They are disconnected with country fans and other artists. They have no idea of this country’s history, what binds us together. Maines is as ignorant as I’ve seen in the anti-American crowd. They can stay pop, far as I care.
Katie says:
You might want to check your facts about the Dixie Chicks before discrediting the work they did during the CMA eligibility period. Their ENTIRE tour was throughout the second half of 2006, falling right in line with the dates that were necessary in order to be nominated for an award.
And, in response to the comment above me: How many US soldiers have to die before we can listen to the Dixie Chicks on country radio again?
Not all country music fans support simple-minded politics.
Lee says:
I have never been a big fan of the Dixie Chicks, but they are entitled to their opinions and the freedom that our soliders are and have died for and that is the right to speak out freely. Many of the citizens of this great country do not agree with the war and speak out about it, but that doesn’t mean we don’t support our troops. You can support the troops but not the president and that doesn’t make you a bad person. Wars are bad and people die fighting for freedom and that is the way of the world. We have the freedom to speak out and disagree with our leaders. Get over it.
Steven says:
How Can The CMA Ignore Tim When He Worked His Butt Off This Year, Selling Out Most Venues He and His Wife Played?
betty says:
dont see how toby keith can continue to be overlooked.he continues to put out great videos and has an amazing ability to take a commom saying and write a good song about it.how many songs have tim and kenny written? what does he have to do to be recognized as the greatest artist out there?
janet says:
sorry for tim, not receiving a nomination, but i am in seventh heaven about TRACY LAWRENCE getting one. it’s about time that his talent was recognized!
sheiy says:
what of course they don’t i mean they are o.k. they have some good songs but i my opinoin they’re songs are a little more up beat than the other songs done by the other songwriters.
american:thank you
french:boonjre
blackfoot:alliey
Hannah says:
I think they should. I love their song I’m not ready to make nice. It is a song that most of us can relate to. They have been around a long time and they have had pretty good songs in the past.
Karen says:
Where do I start? comments from a 58 yr old country music fan.
1. Dixie Chicks Their music is more country than most so called “country” out there now. They refused to remove the fiddle from their 1st #1 song so pop stations would play it. Told the pop stations to play it as is! Did not like Natlie’s comments about Prsident Bush either, expecially since she made them outside the US. Especially didn’t appreciate their comments about Reba! But their song “Traveling Soldier” is one of my favorites! Too bad it doesn’t get played much.
2. Toby Keith He is the best. Know him personaly and his comments about the Dixie Chicks says it all When you lose a 2 yr old daughter(his former band member’s)everything else pales in comparsion. I know, been there done that, lost my daughter, Nancy, to a drunk driver accident almost 30 yrs ago. Changes your perspective on everything!
3. Tim and Faith Have known Tim since the 1st yr he started! Great person and performer! He loves country music and it shows when he performs! Saw their concert here in Indy last year, and it is the best show I have ever seen, Still get goose bumps when I think about their performances even after a year. No other concert has left that kind of impression on me since Reba!And Faith was just here in Indy on 9/6 for the opening of NFL season(GO COLTS), AND she was Awesome again!!!
So yes HOW COULD THE CMA IGNORE THEM?
I used to be a CMA member and I know I definitely would have voted for them. Tim definitely deserves entertainer of the year!!
Personally I hope George Strait takes it all!! None better, just asked Tim, he will tell you that!
Tammie says:
THANK GOODNESS THE PIXIE TRICKS (YES I MEANT TO SPELL IT
THAT WAY) DON’T WANT ANYTHING TO DO W/COUNTRY MUSIC
I CAN ONLY WISH TOBY WOULD HAVE PUT HIS BOOT UP NATALIES
ASS
TXgirl1722 says:
The Dixie Chicks themselves have said “they are NOT COUNTRY singers. So let them go to the MTV awards. If they don’t want to be here why do they keep trying to drag them back. Brooks and Dunn will win anyway and they should. :)
Lisa says:
I DO NOT think the Dixie Chicks desserve to be nominated for a CMA award especially since Natalie Manes her self spoke ill of Country music and Country Music Ind. is whomade them famous to begin with .
Justin says:
How can I contact Calvin directly?
Sam Bush, Jerry Douglas, and Edgar Meyer are performing together at the end of October in New York City and I think he’d love more information about this concert.
Thanks!
Justin
JustinHolden@gmail.com
Al says:
Wow, I read the above comments and can only conclude that some country music fans (not all) are out of touch with reality. Yes, her comment was controversial at the time. With the benefit of hind sight most intelligent people usually change their minds or at least admit they were wrong. Accordingly, there is a reason the Dixie Chicks swept the grammies and the president has less than a 30% approval rating.
How many innocent people, on both sides, have to die or be wounded before country music fans change their minds? The President waged a war of terror on his own people so that he could get re-ellected. It wasn’t Osama Bin Laden who put fear into the hearts and minds of the American people, it was the President and republican machine that did that. Why people don’t, can’t, or simply choose not to see this is beyond me. With the 2006 elections the Amercian people (or at least the majority) spoke out load and clear. Yes, I support the troops and I think what they are doing is noble. I also think the President should have been impeached! If the democrats had the guts they would have done just that. At a minimum they should have investigated the corruption that is so evident. The American public should take a closer look at the 2004 and 2006 major acts of congress. I think it is unethical for a person to lie to the American people and manipulate the facts. Then to use and/or profit from the misery of others is reprehensible. How country music fans can’t separate that type of person from the troops is beyond my comprehension. Even England, one our biggest allies, has abandon this unpopular war.
As for the CMA’s, like it or not, the Dixie Chicks put out a country album that deserves recognition. They also made an unpopular comment at the wrong time, so what. If you condem them for that, ask yourself why we have freedom of speach in the first place. Should only popular comments be considered free speach. A country’s freedom is measured by how well its minorities are treated. With the type of persecution they felt are we truly a free country?
Shannon says:
I think its dumb that the Dixie Chicks were nominated for an award that they dont even want. They said themselve that they dont want to be considered country, dont want to be liked by country fans, and would never want to be in the same cd player as a Toby Keith or Reba cd! Hello that a good reason alone to nominate someone who wants the award and deserves it such as Tim and Faith who work as hard as they can to make their fans happy by touring and putting out cd’s!
Before their latest CD when was the last time the Dixie Chicks put out a CD!?
NaLoSa says:
Please only it puts that it doesn’t like they and it’s ok, but does not try to confuse people.
As well as you said, I’m not going to speak about policy, but I believe, that with your opinion you continue feeding hatred (unnecessary) towards them.
SavedGirl says:
The Dixie Chicks showed disresperct for our President Bush who is commander in cheif and for america. Our President Bush was ordained by God to lead us here in these last days.
mandy says:
i like them, thats all i can say
GreenBull says:
Ok so what if the Chicks disrespected President Bush? What does that have to do with the quality of their music? Nothing!
And President Bush was not “ordained by God” to lead the US anymore than Saddam Hussein was “ordained by God” to lead Iraq.
Osmond says:
I never paid any attention to the DCX until the dustup a few years ago. Then I was browsing their site last year when I saw the link ‘Listen to the new cd’. So I did, and like they say the rest was history. This is one of the best cd I have ever heard. At the Grammys, the one I felt sure they would win was overall ‘Album of the year’
But I am a ‘libra’, and we tend to want to look at things from all sides. Fortunately we have youtube, google, cmt, dedicated dcx sites, and all manner of search engines. I have listened to ‘Wide open spaces’, ‘Fly’, ‘Home’, and TTLW. I have looked at their dvd from the fly tour, from the TOTW tour, and ‘An evening with the Dixie Chicks’. This is just an amazingly unique band.
I understand that some objections may not be about the music, but about them personally. So, I have seen lots of video interviews, listened to radio interviews, read lots af articles, and observed the different groups and people they have performed with. They strike me as good and caring individuals. And they are individuals, different in some ways and simular in others. As an example, if you ask Emily a question, she would pause and organize her thoughts before answering. Not so Nat; She jumps right in, and sometimes says things she may regret later, even thought she may not admit it.
Just thought I would put in my 2-cents.
Christin L. says:
First of all, if you want to be taken seriously, learn to capitalize and use correct punctuation. It is hilarious to me that people are trying to make “educated” comments about politics, God, and music and yet they cannot type a complete sentence correctly i.e. Carol. A special note to “SavedGirl,” I am pretty sure that God does not want to be held responsible for President Bush’s actions just because he attributes his decisions to being a Christian man. Everything that I have learned in church has taught me that God does not support war in any shape or form and he is probably tired of being called down on so many different sides.
I had the good fortune to attend both the Dixie Chicks and the Tim McGraw/Faith Hill concerts this year. Both shows were incredible and showcased gifted artists. I personally do not care what genre of music these artists are placed in by fans or radio stations. The fact remains that all three artists produced exceptional music that I enjoy immensely. The Dixie Chicks’ album was excellent, their best ever. I admire their strength in the face of adversity these past few years. Because they “live in the land of the free” they are entiled to their opinion, whether you agree with it or not. No matter what they said, they did not deserve death threats or threats against their innocent children. People need to get a life and get their priorities in order. As far as Toby Keith is concerned, he is a talented singer, but even he has admitted that he took his comments too far and that he should of been a bigger person and let things go instead of starting a war of words. It is time for people to move on and focus on more important things happening in this country and around the world.
Sandy says:
I was soooo disappointed when Toby Keith was overlooked for a nomination this year and the “Dixie Chicks” were. Toby was one of few that didn’t receive nominations. Why oh why was a nomination given to the Chicks?? They decided after the fiasco they didn’t want to do country anymore so why are they here….
I’ll surely not watch this year and keep my fingers crossed Dixie Chicks do not win…
Jane says:
The Dixie Chicks don’t deserve any award. How they got nominated is beyond me. What did have they done to deserve a nomination? Tim McGraw, on the other hand, who’s had a great year was totally ignored, and not even recognized, except for “Event of the Year”. That is so wrong. All I got to say is that they must’ve been running short of nominees, so they had to stick somebody in there. Well, The Dixie Chicks was definetly the wrong choice.
Mary says:
Who are the Dixie Chicks??? Who Cares?
Janis Totham-Davies says:
Dear CMT
I would like to complain that although I receive CMT.com, I am unable to play any music on it or look at movie clip downloads because I use an iMac computer. Come on people when are you going to catch up, and give Mac users the same access as Windows users?
I also watch CMT on my TV but I’m thoroughly disgusted with the way CMT, like other channels, puts up ads for programs in the middle of films and other programs I am watching. You might think this is good marketing; in fact it is not, it just makes me turn off whatever I am watching. Could you please also tell me what overweight cheerleaders have to do with country music?
I am also truly disgusted with the fact that I can’t find anywhere on CMT.com where I can write a complaint and express my views, which is why I am here now on this blog.
I want to complain most strongly about your total bias in favor of Toby Keith by not showing any new videos by The Dixie Chicks! What right have you to choose what we can see? Keep politics out of it. I am a big fan of both and belong to both fan clubs. I care not what their political views are and neither should you.
I thought this was the land of the free, with free speech and expression for all. Obviously not in CMT’s case. The music awards have been disgusting and quite dreadful to The Dixie Chicks, since Natalie expressed her opinion on Bush, (Twig in my book.) What is wrong with you people, are you truly all “RED Necks”, as that is how you are behaving? One would think you are all in favor of war and and killing, are you? Show some common sense for once and stop being sheep. Let us again have equal airtime and fairness where music is concerned.
The Dixie Chicks deserve recompense for all they have been put through. An award would be a start, but a public apology from CMT would be much better in my opinion.
Enough of our daily lives are filled with horrific images and obscene language, so please keep all music programs neutral. Our young people especially deserve that much at least.
What I really need is the names and addresses of the executives of CMT (Viacom company.) Where does the buck stop? Please use my e-mail address to contact me.
Thank you.
Yours,
Janis Totham-Davies
J says:
Yes, they do deserve a nomination. Their album was probably the best country, yeah I said country album, to come out recently. It wasn’t filled with radio friendly tunes hoping to gain another hit or two a la Toby Keith or Kenny Chesney. Time and effort was put into the project and as their Grammy shows, it sure as hell paid off.
This argument is so tiring. It’s over and done with. What Natalie said has nothing to do with the genre of music in which the play. Congratulations to her for speaking out instead of keeping it inside. I mean, come on. It’s not like she’s forming anti-war protests. She’s only speaking truth. Something 80% of Americans are afraid to do these days.
Good luck at the CMAs, girls!
Marty DeLavergne says:
I don’t think the Dixie Chicks should get anything. They were “OK” until Maines started shooting her mouth off. I agree with the “Shut Up and Sing” route. Also, what’s with Kid Rock and the Eagles - they can’t make it on the pop scene anymore so they are trying to take over country. NOT. And speaking of who is not up for any awards, how about Alan Jackson. To me he is better than Faith and Tim put together. Not flashy but GOOD. He’s being shoved aside so the “flavors of the month” can get air time. Jeesh
Jennifer says:
Why can you not let go of the past. Natalie said what she said, now lets move on! “Let he without sin cast the first stone” Good Luck to all nominated. I will be rooting for the chicks :-)
Joni says:
Well Jennifer it’s like this, you need to learn just like the Dixie Chick’s that this is what it means to be free Americans. We are free to express ourselves just as you, and Natalie. The difference is, we are voicing our opinions within the bounderiess of this great free country, the USA! Freedom that has been bought and paid for in blood by those who fought and sacrificed to establish and maintain this freedom we exercise everyday. So don’t you dare try to tell anyone how they should feel! Looks like some of us are just “not ready for nice”! I hope to see them show up again also, and through the freedom of consumer choice, we can make our opinion heard loud and clear!
Rene says:
I think the Dixie Chick’s ruined it for themselves..They need to just worry about singing and keep their mouth shut about politics…We don’t give a rats ass on their thoughts about the current issues in the U.S.
I know we are in America and it is freedom of speech but there are limits….
mandy m says:
good music has nothing to do with disrespecting the country, and im not standing up for bush…but at the same time there is no need for that.
anabel50 says:
bottom line…the chicks have talent and they have the right to freedom of speech just as you or i. maybe they should not be as outspoken on stage as they are public figures and the press WILL NOT be forgiving but it’s time to move on, so let’s give them the second chance they deserve.
DANIE says:
NO WAY SHOULD THEY BE NOMINATED!! THEY SHOW NO RESPECT FOR COUNTRY MUSIC,AND THERE PEERS.FAT MOUTHED NAT HAS THE NERVE TO SAY TOBY KEITHS SONG COURTESY OF THE RED WHITE & BLUE,SHOWS WHY PEOPLE THINK COUNTRY MUSIC IS IGNORANT.GIMME A BREAK.. SHE’S IGNORANT.TOBY SUPPORTS OUR TROOPS,NOT THE WAR.WHY DON’T THE 3 DING A LINGS GO OVERSEAS & SING TRAVELING SOLDIER? I GUESS THAT WOULD BE “THE AMERICAN WAY”.
danielle says:
Why are people even questioning if they deserve a nomination. Are we going to succumb to the ignorant southern stereo type. This isn’t a question of politics. It’s one of hard work and talent. The Chicks have put their hearts and souls into this album. It’s also not fair to Tim McGraw to compare him to a group that is so artistically different. He is a fine artist. He is going to shine no matter what. But this is about album content and not radio play. Country Music itself has been changing since we got off the boat. How can we sit back and categorize what is country? Aren’t the Allman Brothers country? Ray Charles? The Carter Family? Johnny Cash? Nickel Creek? Embrace the music it’s about our past, present, and future and it would be a crime for it not to evolve and change.
Jimmy says:
It is great to see the Dixie Chicks get a CMA nomination after what they had to go through for just being an American that loves their country and speaks up when needed. They should win at the CMA’s I think! I like the others music that were nominated but the Chick’s music is a whole lot better to me!
karon says:
i wanted the dixi chicks at the awards,i have watched the awards for over 33 years and love their music.
KeithFan says:
No one should underestimate Keith Urban. He is the BEST musician out in country music today. He writes most of his own music. That’s more than I can say for some of the fabricated artists in country music, the ones that pick up songs off music row and want to be a star. If you haven’t seen one of his concerts, you are missing out on great music. He has a deep understanding of country music and it flows from him in pure perfection. He has every right to be nominated for a CMA award. I hope he wins Entertainer of the Year.
LSUFAN says:
No way should they be nominated~!!!!!! As a mother of a United States Airman 1st class I am totally appalled and stunned that they were even nominated on the CMA’s. They have made their choice and I could live a happy life NEVER having to hear from them again. My child chose to serve & protect, even those as ungratefully as the Dixie Witches~!!!!!!!!!!!
Terri_J says:
Wow- Some people just don’t know know when to let something go !! Hey, LSUFAN, I bet you would probably vote for george w. again? How many soldiers have to die before we can hear the Dixie Chicks again? I’m ashamed that the President is from Texas. They did nothing, NOTHING to trashed by people like you. You say they made their choice– and just what choice was that? To be crucified daily by idiots. Your child made his/her chose to serve and I’m sure it will be done with dignity and I will put them in my prayers. You said you would happy never hearing from Chicks again but I feel as though you are the kind of person that no matter what happens in your life you will never be happy !!!
Dixie Chicks are the Best
Terri
Palestine, Texas
A-Veteran says:
Terry_J is right on the money, as was the Dixie Chicks with there comments about Bush. The problem with country music fans is that they don’t live in the real world and wear blinders to any other opinion. Wake up its the 21st century. This country was founded on protests and outspoken citizens. Stand up for America and every persons right to speak.
I did my time in a B-52 over Viet Nam so the Dixie Chicks could speak there mind. LSUFAN should go back to burning books.
Jerry
Mission viejo, California
Terri_J says:
Thank You Jerry for everything !
Terri J
Mike says:
If she could travel back in time, would she do it again?
I do not think so, but she should have the freedom to speak. Live by the nasty comment, die by the nasty comment. She has to live with what SHE did to her friends, every day. Black eyeshadow that makes them look like junkies. You’ve come a long way baby. Shame.
Pam says:
I agree that the Chicks should not have been nominated.I read where all these folks are screaming about Faith and Tim not being nominated. Maybe they would be nominated for a country music award if they still sang country music!!They started out country and then they both went the other way. Maybe they will get a mtv nod. I don’t understand how big and rich call themselves country and get away with it.A lot of the new performers call themselves country that would not know country if it hit tham in the face. I loved Stay by sugarland.I very seldom listen to country music radio stations any more. If I want to hear country music I have to listen to cd’s by real country artist,Allen Jackson,George Straight,Carrie Underwood,Brooks and Dunn.
Terri_J says:
Personally I would not want her to take it back. It showed me that people can be you best frinds/fans one day and then 1 (one) small mistake and everybody turned there backs on these girls. It show’s just how redneck and just how hillbilly some people really are. Also, there is nothing she has to sleep with but her husband and as she so gracefully put it in NRTMN ( you know the song) she sleeps like a baby. They have come a long way since this all started and may God Bless them for standing their groung for that. I so admire them for because for once in I seen someone stand up to that “whatever” kind of Predident that we can’t seem to get rid of. Since 2003 it’s as though they have had to fight for everything just because of people like you that continue to knock them down. But they are back now and even stronger, better, more fired up and I/me personally have never been as proud of these 3 girls as I am to day.
They have come a long way Baby and don’t you just Love it ?
Terri_J
Palestine, Texas
Shame you cannot see past the end of your nose
kristen says:
i don’t know why everyone is so upset about the chicks being nominated? have you all forgotten that the cma’s are about good, genuine country music and not a popularity contest. by the way, i don’t know why everyone thinks they need to defend bush anyway, have you seen his approval rating? you must be the 2 percent still backing him. the chicks were just stating the obvious. and about tim mcgraw, maybe if he would sing something that had a little substance and not ride the coattails of his wife he could get nominated. i am far more proud to say that the dixie chicks come from my home state than that fruit loop we have for a president. only 51 weeks and counting
*dixie chicks supporter*
Mike says:
I do not think that it was a SMALL mistake, that has changed the entire course of their careers. They have stated in other blogs, that they are more pop now than country. I have not turned my back on these talented artist. I think, she has turned her group away from country. How deep were there roots in country music? Only as deep as the money flowed. They are more Hollywood now than anything else, as witnessed by the waif/junkie eyeshadow look. I am from New England and if I am hillbilly/redneck, I am first a proud American that does not take cheap shots, to be politically correct for an evening. Liberals always make it a personal attack. She has apologized once, then took it back. They cheap shot Reba. They cheap punched fans that bought their records, who they have dumped now as rednecks. They have “Gone Hollywood”
I respect their talent, but she picked the fight. I am not thrilled with Bush either.
I do have a large nose and it is hard to see around sometimes, it’s a family thing, I am stuck with it.
I cannot defend Bush, your right about that. Long 51 weeks. I agree.
Cheap shot about Tim McGraw, kind of an angry woman comment. She does have great coattails.
marymerat says:
The chicks are certainly intitled to their opinions and free speach, however, whenthey criticised tobys patriotic song and patriotism in general, they were way off base. They also stated blatantly they did not want toby or reba fans anyway. They should not ever be considered for any nominations or recgnition in the country field!!!
Scott says:
I wonder. Would the “Chick Haters” be as patriotic if Natalie’s comments had been made about Clinton?
Before you reply, consider how these hippocrytes(spelling?)never complained when the former Texas congressman Tom Delay defamed President Clinton during a 1998 speach in England.
PATRICIA says:
Let’s get back to real country music. not the rock songs that the new country stars are doing. That’s Rock not Country.
Shannon says:
After putting aside there views on the president and freedom of speech it comes down to one thing and that is that the Dixie Chicks do NOT want to be considered country so why put them into a category they dont want to be in. There cd may be amazing but if they dont want to be considered country then they should not be considered for this award. There are many people who would love to be nominated for this award and deserve to nominated but there chances were given to the Dixie Chicks who dread every aspect of this award and its meaning.
jim says:
If they do not want to be considered country ,they should stop releasing their music on the country market.Country music is,and has always been about emotions…my opinion,of course…be it cheating songs,deep love songs,bar room antics,rebellion(thanks Hank Jr,Waylon,Willie,and others).Faith Hill was shunned by Nashville when she released Breathe…not country enough,while people like Vern Gosdin,Charley Pride,and yes,yours truly are considered “too old and too country for the country market”.I like most of Kenny Chesney’s music,but,in my opinion,his “Island Sound” was not country.Tim McGraw’s duet with a rapper should have never seen a country station.Taylor Swift,who is a very talented young lady,blongs on the Disney network till she is old enough to have “lived “a country song.I do a lot of karaoke…I have people ask for my autograph,and where they can buy a copy of my cd’s.I tel them nashville told me I was too old to be marketable…the Dixie Chicks are entitled to their opinion…however,the stage of a music event that fans paid megabucks to see is not the place to interject your political views.I think it was Merle that was asked why he just stood there and sang at his concerts…his reply was that people paid to hear him sing the songs on the records they bought..to do otherwise would be wrong…loose quote…ok…off the soapbox now..as long as we allow country to slip away,it will continue to slip away….Murder on Music Row pretty well says it all…feel free to write me
Shelby says:
I totally agree with Barbara and the first comment….half of the “country stars” are not truly country singers…and don’t have country past….george strait should have sweeped the awards and faith and tim should have won some too…it was not the best awards show i’ve seen
Phyllis Hammons says:
The Dixie Chicks have not accomplished enough in the last few years to even get a nomination at any awards show! There are a number of very elite artists who were totally ignored….like Toby Keith, Tim McGraw, and Alan Jackson. I suspect it is political black-balling! Why can’t the academy take the “high road” for once? Haven’t they learned anything from their tarnished track record with the likes of Johnny Cash?
Phyllis Hammons says:
I have a question for a country music historian. Why did the Opry do the mass firing of stars back in 1956? What was the conventional thinking at the time?
Calvin E. says:
As a life long country music fan, I am gratful for teh Dixie Chicks. They are not only good singers but great muscians. Their music is real country music and not the half rock and half country like so many of the new breed of country singers.
DO THEY DESERVE A CMA NOMANATION. In my mind they deserve it more than over half of the people that got them.
Terry E. says:
Folks, with the current political situation with George Bush and his handling of Israel, I’m ashamed to say I voted for him 2 times and when I came to this conclusion I thought about the “Dixie Chicks”, so I say country fans “What tha Hell, Let’s Forgive The Dixie Chicks” and welcome them back to county music with open arms, country is where they belong.
Ibelieveinme says:
I am a big supporter of the Dixie Chicks and was miffed when they were blocked from our country station. They are artists and they have beliefs and should enjoy the freedoms of free speech.
Shannon says:
Its hard to forgive someone who isnt sorry for what they did…and to welcome them back to country music with open arms would only be pushing them into a musical category they never wanted to be apart of.
kim A says:
Dixie chicks? Are they country? My vote: NOT THEM..
Bill Jenkins says:
Bill Jenkins…
That’s awesome!…
Wayne Apon says:
Dixie Chickens turned thier back on there country making the remark from another place besides the USA, I would love to see the chickens flop, floppy all over the country. Till they figure out that their no longer wanted
Sherry McGee says:
I think it’s about time everyone learned how to forgive. I think the Dixie Chicks were great back then and I still believe they are great. All they did was say something just like everyone else in this country and they have paid the price. Get over it.
No longer a fan of the Ditzy Chicks says:
I just had to make a comment. I believe in free speech. I believe they were completely in the right in saying how they felt. If they felt so passionately about this, that they had to make the statement from the stage where thousands of fans paid good money to come and hear them sing, whether at home or abroad, then they certainly should say it. That being said, I believe in the fans freedom of speech. And speak they did. They decided that if the Dixie Chicks were the kind of person that would attack our President during a time of war, while they stood on foreign soil, then they were not the kind of people they wanted to support financially. I long for the days when entertainers did the job we pay them to do and nothing else. We do not pay them to stand around and discuss their political views. I really do not care what their political views are. As a manager, I do not expect my employs to sit around talking about their political views. I expect them to perform the tasks we have hired thme to perform. If they feel led to waste our money by doing this instead of their job, they may find themselves looking for another job. The Dixie Chicks should do like the rest of the world and discuss politics in their personal time. Write a book if they want to get it to the masses.
Terri_J says:
Hey ” No Longer a Fan” I bet if you really are a manager of Whatever it is you manage —- sounds like a BS store to me, but I know your employees just JUMP UP and can’t wait to get to work with you as their boss. WOW it would be a long 8 hours.
No longer a fan of the Ditzy Chicks says:
Actually it is true, and they could be blowing smoke, but they seem to enjoy working with me. I dont ask them to do anything I am not will to do right along side of them. And, for the record, I am a director of nursing, and we work, a lot more than 8 hours.
Terri_J says:
Hey ” no longer a fan” — you always post at night and on New Year’s Eve no less so this tells me that you have no life and/or you work the night shift which means you are on the internet and not working and the patients are not being cared for and not doing your job even though you MIGHT be the DON !! (yea right) It does not make any difference to me about how you feel about the Chicks but you are missing out on some great music.
No longer a fan of the Ditzy Chicks says:
Yeah, I do post a night. Not at work. I work the day shift, a perk that came with being a DON. And, I am quite happy with my life. Married my highschool sweet heart, and the mother of two very bright and beautiful daughters. I am content to be at home in the evenings. You, however, seem to be rather bitter. Lashing out so harshly and accusing others of lieing about their occupation simply because I disagree with the forum they used to project their political view point. But, hey, like I said in the beginning, I believe in free speech. So, spew away. I will reply as appropriate. And, for the record, I agree, their music is good. I am just not going to support them financially anymore. I believe all entertainers would do well to learn from the Dixie Chick’s. Their job is to entertain us. Nothing more.
Chris D says:
I bought the Dixie Chicks “Taking the Long Way” in Shanghai, China and took it home to the UK and enjoy it very much. The power of the lyrics is one of the main appeals of the album. As for the many comments in this blog that music makers are here to entertain us - and should by implication be devoid of explicit political reference (a non sequitur) is quite simply ridiculous. Ever since music came into being it has been intertwined with life; love, marriage, drinking, politics, etc. Music and music makers resonate with life generally; they are a mirror on life. The notion that music makers are entertainers paid to distract us from political reality is laughable and naive. I like music makers of many kinds (I am not land locked into one genre, thank goodness) and do not mind knowing about the political sensibilities of lyricists. Sometimes the words of the music do all the talking (not ready to make nice, eh), or as in “Shipbuilding” by Elvis Costello - or recall Elvis Presley and his political songs “If I Can Dream”, “In the Ghetto”, “Change of Habit”, and “Walk a Mile in My Shoes”. Sometimes it requires entertainers to stand up and express opinions to bring about change: from Bob Dylan to Bob Geldof among many others, music makers should be free to express views on any soil about any topic no matter how controversial. If you disagree with the opinions expressed by all means do not buy the music (in the UK we have a campaign group called Rock against Racism which enlightens young people about the hazards of music makers who express overtly racist views). It is a free world, at least for some of us (if you are in Mexico you would not be so lucky: Sergio Gomez, lead performer for the top-selling group K-Paz de la Sierra, was killed in December last year after he left a concert when intercepted by 10 Chevrolet Suburbans drivewn by narcotic gangsters - simply for being in an industry where others have sung about the debilitating effects of narcotic gangsters). Many music makers around the world have died because they were prepared to express views. As for the Dixie Chicks, their honesty is a credit. If some in the country music establishment cannot tolerate hearing their opinions, that speaks volumes. Thank goodness there are people in the music world prepared to express opinions - it would be a sad world if music makers were nothing more than entertainers. As for the CMA nomination: does it really matter? No.
Terri_J says:
Thanks Chris,
You are so right. I enjoyed reading your comment. Their honesty is their credit
No longer a fan of the Ditzy Chicks says:
Chris,
Your points are well made. I do concur. I guess that I was a little vague in my original statement. I am not opposed to musicians letting their political points of view be known. As you have stated, it has long been done. Billy Joel, and “Nineteen”. Toby Keith, and just about everything he sings. The list goes on. I think what bothered me most about the Dixie Chicks, is that when you pay for a concert, and you get a commentary, especially during a time of crisis for our country, I feel it is distasteful. I think it is the wrong forum. But, as I originally stated, I support their right to say what they so obviously feel passionately about. I think, though, they should not be surprised when their fan base did not support it. Surely, they knew that their fan base is conservative. A song is one thing, but an impromptu speech and criticism of our leader is just tacky in my opinion. I think our country has lost something when we are so disrespectful to the leader of our country. You do not have to agree with them, just give them their due respect. Like I said, I love the Dixie Chicks music for the most part. I did not like their song “Sin Wagon”, but I did not stop buying their music because of that. It was a song. But, I have not purchased anything since their speech. I may one day, but not yet. I was hopeful that they would have realized that it was in poor taste and offered an apology. Didn’t have to say they didn’t feel that way. Just something along the lines of “Obviously, we differ with the President, that is still true, but we should have used better judgement in the way we demonstrated that difference”. I could have respected that. But, that is just my opinion. Obviously, not everyone is going to agree with me.
Lorry says:
I did like the Dixie Chicks when they first started, but the more they were successful the more hateful they became. Most of our country singers like Alan Jackson, Tim and Faith, Toby Keith, and George Strait sing about thing we all can relate to. True country songs. They are the ones to watch. The Dixie Chicks are old news and need to be left there.
Osmond says:
No longer a fan,
You should drop the ‘Ditzy’ from your name. It detracts from your otherwise thoughtful posts. I am not going to beat a dead horse here; so I would just comment on ‘Sin wagon’: I have never just listened to sin wagon. I know lyrics are important,and I have heard Nat say ‘What’s the point of having a great melody, if the lyrics suck’. But there are some songs that the Chicks perform, where the exhibition of their musicionship is so awsome, you tend to forget the lyrics. ‘Sin wagon’ is one of those songs. ‘Give it up or let me go’ and ‘Top of the world’ also come to mind.
Warren says:
I was only really drawn here by the DVD “Shut up and Sing”. Toby Keith can’t really be a silly as he appeared just opportunistic and playing his audience for suckers (or mugs as we say in Australia). What a great act teh Chicks are and what a silly question. What they don’t deserve is the tricks played on the by various media conspirators.
Nancy says:
The Dixie Chicks don’t deserve a thing. They should not have been allowed back into country music! Everyone is allowed to there opinion, but where’s the respect? I used to love them but now if they come on the radio, i turn it off! With their attitude they should stay on the Rock N Roll scene. It suites them better.
darcy says:
The chicks DON’T deserve nothing but kick out of country music.
B J says:
They deserve nothing but scorn in my book
Darcy says:
No I do not believe they should any rewrd at all I think they have gone t the other side of the world. they aren’t singing country. They should never be nominated for any reward.
Deb says:
to be or not to be politically correct…. hmmm if Nat would have done her research she would have known that our president was not born in texas just resides there because that is where he hangs his hat…. I found that it very disrespectful b/c the troops are over there doing their job… We all take risks everyday at our jobs. If I was to have an accident while at work and heaven forbid not able to come I don’t want my husband questioning my boss as to why it happened. And I also would not want him upset with my boss either, that is life deal with it. I felt that she showed her rear and no way she should get an award for it!!!!!!
Warren says:
Ah, the Republicans are out in force. Can’t wait to hear the screams when they are thrown out of the White House. The truth is you can’t behave as though you are the only people in the world. As for the Dixie Chicks, their courage should be and is being applauded around the world. Goodness, you people do a lot of talking about “kicking”. And by the way, can someone give me a definition of country. Just so we know what we are talking about. It sounds almost as nonsensical a discussion as what is “American” or “Unamerican”. In truth, it normally comes down to what you like and that’s about it. Are you people entering your real names or are you relatives of Toby Keith?
Terri_J says:
Oh dear sweet Warren, This is the land of FREE and the home of the BRAVE !!! And Natalie was one of the brave. She used her right as given to her in what is known as “Free Speech” and the Republicans have had a field day with it. These people throw stones as though they all live in glass houses. When can the Music business MOVE on and let these girls live in peace. Our country is in the worst shape it has been in, in a very long time and the forecast is not looking good and I bet if you ask the people on this message board it is all because the Dixie Chicks said they were ashamed the WONDERFUL President we have is from Texas. Well he lives about an hour from me when he comes to Crawford and I will be the first to say that I too, am ashamed of a man that has made the United States the Laughing Stock of the entire world.
So if what Natalie said got everybody’s panties in a wad they could take a lesson from her and learn how to speak up for this country and for what’s right and wrong.
I can see from watching ” Shut up and Sing” why The Chicks are not ready to make nice !!!
They will always be my favorite and will always be a class act in my book !!
Terry_J
Palestine, Texas
Deb says:
Terry,
Take off ther CL off of your class act and you will see why others and myself think they aren’t soooooo great. From Texas to me is being born a Texan in this case that is where Nat went wrong not just living here on a vacation. When they are READY TO MAKE NICE they will be welcome back to country music and then they can “SHUT UP AND SING.” Thank you very much.
Warren says:
Thanks for your reply, Terri_J. We are well aware in Australia that the Unites States produces much of the best the world has to offer including many of its people. It appears you are one of them. It must be interesting living in a town called Palestine, Texas. We have just thrown out our Prime Minister who led us to join the US in this disastrous war. It was quite humiliating for him. At the same time, reports this week are that he is being invited to receive an award from the “American Enterprise Institute” a right wing think tank and one of the big supporters of the invasion. He will be rewarded for his support of the big end of town as will George W. PS I am not really writing in the early hours of the morning. From just outside Sydney, we are about 17 hours ahead of you.
Jane says:
Terri, thanks to you and others who share my view about the Chicks. I loved them from day one and that will never change. Yes, they have made mistakes, and America (the great) will never let them forget it. So what does that say about America? I frankly don’t think that we as a country came out looking very good in such OVERREACTION. And still after five years!!! Absolutely amazing.
Country music field let them down which didn’t help anything or anyone. And with what the Chicks were put through, I wouldn’t blame them if they didn’t like country music OR the country. CMA was never going to honor them, but Chicks’ CD was a prize and deserved the Grammys it won.
Deb says:
well Jane,
Tell me this if your child is in the candy store and they showed their rear because you said they could not have any candy. Are you saying that you would AWARD their behavior by giving them the candy? well in this case you and the others are rewarding bad behavior by giving these ladies an award they don’t deserve. Surely your child would apologize because they feel bad about their behavior and these ladies if you even want to call them ladies don’t even feel bad so why should they get any kinds of awards.
America is great because if we don’t like to listen to something we can turn it off. As for country radio letting THEM down no they let themselves down thank you. It did help them because they found another genre they seem to be quite proud of and let that genre shove their awards at them. I will not support bad behavior and neither should you.
Ken says:
I used to like the dixie chicks, but for them do to what they did overseas I stopped listening to them completely. I am a career Soldier and pulled 2 tours in Iraq. Even if I disagreed with our president I would never openely say it to foreigners.
Mike B says:
Most of you should listen to Terri J. Since the beginning musicians have been the ones to speak out for the common man/woman with no voice to be heard and help all vent against our socials ills, and trust me for the past seven years this country had been very, very ILL! As far as the Chicks go they have been one of the best contributors to ALL genres of music, countyr, pop or whatever. Just three very talented artists’. Enough said.
Warren says:
Hi Ken
The English, to whom the Dixie Chicks made their comments, were not foreigners but allies. Their Government was equally loose in their use of intelligence.
No longer a fan of the Chicks says:
Jane, the fact that we are still discussing this “five years” after the fact says that America feels passionately about respecting its leader, whether you agree with them or not. And, Mike, as far as musicians always speaking for the “common man/woman” that does not have a voice. I do not think that is the case here. I will agree that is the case sometimes, most do it with their lyrics, not the way the Chicks did it. And the evidence that they were not speaking for the “common man/woman” is in the fact that their fan base abandoned them. They should have learned from the popular notion that “the customer is ALWAYS right”. Their fans are their customers. Their opinion is the only one that matters if they want to continue in their business. So, in my opinion, they should suck it up and apologize. It would go a long way towards repairing their career.
Jane says:
I think the whole thing got so out of control so fast, with people burning CDs (so outrageous) that I suspect the rather insane reaction hurt and bewildered the Chicks to a point that no one among us could possibly comprehend. Old saying, “Until you’ve walked in their shoes…” It isn’t natural that a person looks kindly toward others doing what was done to them. They were punished way beyond what was reasonable. Back whenever it was, Jane Fonda did soooo much worse, which I called real treason, and yet, later on, was able to pick up her career and go on almost like it never happened. But we are living in different times, where almost any and all news is blown out of proportion. Great example is the bashing Carrie Underwood continually gets, virtually punishing her for her success, calling her overexposed. As for the Chicks, they still have a strong fan base, confirmed by the sales of their last CD. But when I think about all that happened, I get more than a little ill, because I don’t feel the same about anything connected to country music anymore even though I’ve been heavy into it all my life. A leading country Los Angeles DJ said one day in 2006, “When country music turned their backs on the Chicks…” And they did. One of the songs from their Taking the Long Way CD is “Bitter End,” which really says it all. As far as genre, Chicks were and will always be country…and brilliantly country. They certainly are not pop. I think a lot of country today is sadly lacking in quality and they could use the IMMENSE talent of Chicks’ music. Too bad they won’t have it.
Ken says:
Warren, they chose to spill thier venom and contempt for OUR president to foreigners in a foreign land. Doesn’t matter if they were allies or not. I wonder why they chose to say that over there and not in Dallas? was it a concert or a political pep rally? It gives our ememies more will to fight, as I should know I just got back from my second tour in Iraq.
Jane says:
Ken, I don’t think they had plans “to spill their venom and contempt,” but rather got caught up in the moment as war became a reality. I have forgotten to mention that I voted for Bush twice, am very conservative. Please don’t ever mistake that anyone hating the war automatically disregards the troops. Whole different matter. I hate the war and reports of so many troop casualties tug at my heart and I just keep praying that the whole ugly thing will come to an end. You have gone to Iraq twice when once would be hard enough. God bless you for your courage and your service. As for the Dixie Chicks, I absolutely know they were very patriotic before everything happened. I actualy think their love of country, mixed with the horror of war and the emotions of the moment, caused what happened to happen. They have paid a very high price and Americans would be a better people if they could forgive. “To forgive is to be divine.”
Warren says:
Ken, I congratulate you on your courage. I can’t begin to imagine what you have been through.
It is pretty obvious why the Chicks chose to say what they said anywhere but Dallas. The aftermath when they returned was violent enough. On your “concert or rally” question, I have often seen US concerts where Flag, Country, God and President were invoked in a patriotic rant. The concert or rally question might be asked just as readily in that context?
To outsiders, especially Fox watchers, life in the US looks like one big Republican Party Rally. On this point, I must apologise for Rupert Murdoch. We should never have let him get out of Adelaide.
PS I hope you don’t make a third tour. Stay well.
ken says:
Warren,
I’m all for freedoms of speach. ALL Americans should voice thier opionion when not satisfied with our corrupt elected officials. (I believe 99.9 % are). Just be brave enough to do it with other americans and not take the cowardly way out. Also no more tours for me over there, I’m retiring from the Army after serving my country over 2o plus years. God Bless America and God Bless Texas!
Peter says:
I think the folks bashing the Chicks show their true colours (and intellect), by their semi-literate tirades.
Bush was wrong to go to war and Natalie was right. Get over it and get on with your lives.
Ruthann says:
Listen to their songs. Listen to their music. Yes, they are deserving. It’s not their fault others didn’t get dominated. Sure what was said a few years ago shouldn’t have been said, at least in public. They suffered for it. Now they’re moving on and we should too. Don’t deny such great talent and give them the credit they are due.
Jane says:
PETER (1/17), I agree so completely;. Who really looked worse? Natalie
or the so-called “patriots” doing what THEY did?
RUTHANN (1/17) So well said. A reminder that some have nothing better
to do than carry a grudge forever. I will always believe that there must have
been those outside U.S., who, when and if they heard about the furor, thought, “The U.S. brags about how free they are, so maybe they aren’t so free after all.” And considering that we do brag about how free we are, what if there had been an insignificant reaction with a general, “Hey, we
are a free country and can say what we want?” Period. Instead, we had a mass display of insanity, or like Peter says, “showing their true colours (and intellect),” or lack of intellect.
And, like you say, Ruthann, “Listen to Dixie Chick songs, listen to their music. Yes, they are deserving. Don’t deny such great talent.” In truth, it is no longer the Chicks’ problem, but rather the bashers who, five years later, are still stuck in 2003 and refuse to move on to the more-pressing matters of 2008.
Warren says:
This clip sums the discussion up beautifully. Just copy it into your browser (it is safe):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6N_tnsvmeAo
Chris says:
It’s not about Politics. It’s about the Music. Hell, if it was about politics the Eagles would never had a single song ever make the radio. The Dixie Chicks deserve a “LIFE TIME ACHIEVMENT” CMA… because it’s only about the music.
Kim says:
The thing about the Dixie Chicks which some people need to understand is that yes, they have the right to say whatever they want and they have used and abused that right. But the thing about free speech is that it doesn’t mean you can say whatever you want and I have to agree with it - no free speech means everyone has the right to voice their opinion. If you’re going to praise Natalie for her use of free speech but then go and get mad at people who choose to use their right to disagree, then I would argue that you don’t support true free speech. Free speech also means that while you can say what you want, you are still held accountable for what you choose to say.
That said, the Dixie Chicks turned their backs on country music and have said repeatedly that they are not country. Ignore the politics, they have no respect for the industry or for the fans who made them. Period. The idea of them being nominated is absurd - not to mention that their recent music has been terrible. Give the nominations to the people who deserve them.
Jane says:
The Chicks turned their backs on country music after the industry turned their backs on them and there are those in country music who admit that. Kim, you remind me a bit of a relative who never hears country music, never listened to the Dixie Chicks, and definitely never heard one word from their album that won the Grammys, but who said, “I don’t think they should have gotten all those awards,” in her case, meaning the music wasn’t good enough. Problem was, she had never heard it. And I beg to differ with your interpretation…their last album was very, very good. And no, I doubt that
they have respect for country anymore and who could blame them?
I wouldn’t have been angry at those upset with Natalie if they had simply said, “She shouldn’t have said that,” which I also said. But it was taken to such extremes that those doing it seemed like real nut cases, like the woman so many have seen trying to force her very, very young child to say “s—- it.” Much worse than Natalie.
All of us who remain firmly with the Dixie Chicks also know that regardless
if the CMA had awarded them (which they weren’t going to do, and nomination was a little less than honest on their part), Chicks absolutely, positively deserved the nomination.
When three fine musicians are literally nailed to the cross as Chicks were,
one can only admire them for “hanging in.” Their bravery has been amazing.
Warren says:
Those who want to say they are not country need to give a definition of “country” or stay out of it. The debate about country or not is a bit silly.
Bobbie says:
I think Trace Adkins’ Asshole Rehab should come into play here.
Paula Rink says:
I don’t think the Dixie Chicks should EVER be nominated again for a CMT, simply because they made the statement that “we do not consider ourselves country”. Period.
twirlgirl19 says:
The dixie chicks deserve no thang after saying what she thought about President Bush.
h hensel says:
They do not deserve any nominations. They should move to another country since they are so anti-american.
They don’t support our troops or our president, why are they living here?
Garry says:
Many of us would like to say a lot worse about our President. Really his behaviour is indefensible for anyone with a sense of history. I guess that rules out the Toby Keith supporters and the “my country through thick or thin” brigade.
What would this man have to do to attract your antipathy or even your sense of inquiry? And H Hensel supporting our troops IS NOT the same thing as supporting the President. Don’t be so obtuse.
Jane says:
They absolutely did NOT say they didn’t support the troops. And Natalie absolutely DID say that she DOES support them and why wouldn’t she? Not troops’ fault they are in a war. GET OVER IT!
Jules says:
I was never a big fan of the Dixie Chicks. But I believe everyone has a right to their opinion on any subject. As far as the awards, I do not believe they worked as hard as everyone else nominated and would like to see someone else win. I am also surprised Tim McGraw and Faith Hill was not nominated.
Darlene Wolff says:
Calvin
sounds like you have a chip on your shoulder!!!!
Jane says:
Darlene,
Gee, I would like to have read Calvin’s message..but just ain’t here anymore?
T.J. says:
In any event, the DC’s are a breath of fresh air. Talented, opinionated, outspoken and they continue to open up places in music that few thought had a chance. Its amazing to see that in this day and age that we still can’t respect others opinions especially if they come from a woman. Country music has something to learn from these girls….
BTW: I am a dude and I respect their opinions even if they differ from some of my own. Most of all, I respect what they are showing us and the maturity they have displayed in becoming women. Country music will never be whole without them and the cancer it breeds in the music industry will be its ultimate downfall.
Linda says:
NO DIXIE CHIXKS,,,,,,,,,THEY SCREWED UP BAD,,,,,
Mary Jane says:
In a court of law, America is the supposedly the best, meaning, I suppose, the fairest. However, outside the court, how fair? Regarding the GREAT trragedy of the Dixie Chicks, when it’s all said and done, the VERY SOLID fact will remain. Their punishment by far exceeded their crime.
ken says:
No one took away their free speech. They said what they wanted and america had their free speech, which was to boycott them. Free speech is great isn’t it?
Mary Jane says:
Their punishment by far exceeded their crime.
Warren says:
You’d have to recognise, Ken, that for many people doing their own thinking is rare and uncomfortable experience. This is especially so with the group that boycotted the Chicks. It was a big business initiative. The general public were just Republican pawns.
ken says:
YOU have to realize warren, making a statement like..’The general public were just Republican pawns’ is unfair. Its seems you like to think you know what’s in the general public’s mind. Can you say you know the ‘general public? meaning millions of people?? I seriously doubt it. Look, they had their right to say what they want and the public had its right to freedom of speech also. Just because you disagree with the ‘general public’ doesn’t make you correct or have the moral high ground. Even freedom of speech has its consequences. They were not punished by any goverment agency or subjected to court proceedings. I respect your difference of opinion though. I wouldn’t worry about the dc’s too much, they still have millions of dollars I’m sure to go out and enjoy this great country which gave them the freedom of speech.
Ken says:
Well said.
Lisa W says:
Holly 8/31/2007 : No Dixie Chicks do not RULE, not for everyone at least. Mary Jane 1/22/2008: As far as their punishment exceeding their crime …” If you can’t stand the heat try taking your hand out of the fire!!. Ken 1/24/2008: Thank You for explaining here, how you can say whatever you want in the LAND OF THE FREE but the LAND OF THE FREE has a right to tell you what they think about your free speech! I find it unfortunate that Natalie’s remarks have cost the other chicks the most…they started the group and in my opinion Natalie has tried to change them since she showed up.
Warren says:
Give me a break about your free speech. Put the drum down. Yes, you can speak to half a dozen people on a blog and say whatever you like. However, as soon as you talk to a bigger audience you bring the shock jocks, vested interests and the uninformed down on your head. Yes, you have free speech but it is just that the opposition owns radio stations, TV mega-companies and newspapers where they pay their people very well to keep their own opinions to themselves and to jump on anyone who gets out of line. That’s the real Dixie Chicks story.
Free speech? To be anything like it, it first must be informed. You won’t get it with groups like the American Enterprise Institute running the agenda. I am embarrassed to say that one of their main spokespeople, Danielle Pletka, is Australian.
No Longer a Fan of the Chicks says:
People keep referring to “punishment”. The chicks were not punished. They offended many fans, those fans chose to spend their money on artists that did not offend them. That is not punishment. That is free market. When you are in business, and like it or not, entertaining us is their business, you have to consider your customer before doing anything. We all choose to do business in different places according to our preferences. It has nothing to do with punishing other business establishments.
As far as what they said about the president. This is my opinion. I do not agree with everything that President Bush does. But, I am of the opinion that he is in a position of authority, and I was always taught to respect your authority figures. I think it was just disrespectful. Many people have displayed this disapproval in more respectful ways. And, those people did not receive the backlash that the Chicks did. It is all in how you do what you do.
Someone, mentioned Jane Fonda. I think the reason she got away with it back in the Vietnam war, was because, we did not have the direct to consumer media that we do today. If something happens, it gets to the public almost immediately. However, Jane Fonda has received some backlash in more recently, just not to the same degree.
And, other artists who have behaved rashly, have received similar backlash. Look at the anti-war movies that have been made recently. I cannot think of any that have been successful.
It is all about knowing what your customer will appreciate, and what they will not tolerate.
mary roberts says:
you know they have the right to say what they please.i donot like them if the think they can do rock good luck when they open there big mouths they really sound country.annnnd they disowed there fans so be happy if thats possible.and there ashamed the president is from there state then move im sure he was there first stay away from country music. i love you tim and toby.
Lisa W says:
Geesh Warren, you would think you were being paid by the Dixie Chicks to stay on this blog and keep their candle lit. Get a life, dude.
Mary Jane says:
Lisa W, there are many more of us who will always work to keep “their candle lit.” THEY DESERVE IT!!!
Delo says:
So the original post on this was August 30, 2007 and clearly it is still a ‘hot’ topic. What strikes me the most is the fact that the media was able to convince US citizens that the comment was that Natalie said she did not support the troops… Which, and someone correct me if I am wrong, is not accurate.
What she said was “Just so you know, we’re ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas.” At this point - I think that there are more than a few citizens who are also ‘ashamed’ of the misinformation that we were provided as justification for this long and drawn out exercise in futility that has injured, maimed, and killed so many of our troops.
So once again the media was able to manipulate so many of the citizens of this country. I for one have to say that not supporting the direction, choices, statements, etc. of the president is the choice that we enjoy as members of a democratic country. I have to say that I do not agree with the choice made to go to war in the middle east, HOWEVER once that choice was made and we sent out troops there they had my support and heartfelt thanks. SO - based on that, am I not a patriot?
Lastly, until the public outcry against them I had never bought a ‘country’ album in my life. But in support of the right we all have to free speech, I went right out and bought “Home”. Clearly, I am no expert in what makes country music, well… country music. But what I can tell you is that purchase was a turning point in my music preferences.
And I now regularly enjoy what is played on ‘country’ stations. And it seems that there is a wide range of what the country genre encompasses. The music the DCs play is comperable to most, is it not?
ken says:
Some people just don’t get it. NO one said they (dc’s) can’t have free speech. They said what they wanted without getting arrested. I’m all for free speech. But expect everyone else so have the same right. And the way I express my freedom of speech is to NOT buy any dc music or support it in any way shape or form. Many Americans feel the same way and now the dc supporters don’t like everyone elses free speech. we all have to deal with what we dont like to hear.
Warren says:
Thanks for the advice Lisa W. I guess the right to free speech includes the right to be insulting. You’re good at it.
Barb says:
I just think that Natalie needs to hire a PR person and shut her mouth. Freedom of speech is a right we ALL have but she just doesn’t seem to know when to stop. If they would get off the subject and just make music, I’d actually start listening to them again; their CDs are on my shelf collecting dust.
Terri_J says:
Barb — The statement that Natalie made was made in the lead up to war that we as American’s were lied to about in the first place by the most corrupt administration I have seen since Nixon. We (american troops) have been there 5+ years and nothing has changed. 5 were killed yesterday. I am from Texas and I myself and ashamed to tell people where I am from because I get that “LOOK ” you know the one!!
I Love their music and I love them as a group because of the fact they were not afraid to make a statement that alot of people were thinking but were just not saying because at the time it was not politically correct.
So many people have told them to “Shut Up” that it really old after all these years. It’s people on these message boards that keep venom and nastiness going on and on.
Can we just Please STOP all this.
People like you and the way you think ruined their career for a while but they came back and their TRUE fan base stayed with them and we always will.
Now get some swiffer dusters and dust your CD’s off and listen to some GOOD music for awhile.
Terri_J
Palestine, Texas
ken says:
Terri, as a soldier myself (active duty no less) and stationed in Texas and further more just came back again from my third tour in Iraq , I disagree with you. We have made a lot of progress over there. If you are ashamed of telling people you are from Texas well then you sound like you are not a real Texan. I can’t imagine someone from this great place to even formulate those thoughts and spew those words out. “Iam from Texas and I myself and ashamed to tell people where I am from” The dc’s didn’t help matters for us over there. as far as I am concerned they are as bad as jane fonda. I will never forgive the dc’s for being so unpatriotic and for having so much contempt for our country, the very same country which gave them the freedom to make them millionaires.
Tyan says:
I certainly believe that the Dixie Chicks do deserve a nomination. They voiced their opinion and have been treated unfairly. Many people may have disagreed with what Natalie may have said, but she also spoke out on what many people were feeling. I honestly think that she did not buckle and say I’m sorry because she meant what she said. Many people would have said their apologies, but when she stood up and refused, I believe it showed character. Whether you agree with her or not, I think that Dixie Chicks are a great group and should be nominated. I actually was disappointed in the way they were treated. Even the remarks made by Jeff Foxworthy made me change my channel when watching the awards because I believe comments like that ruin the awards because everyone has their opinion. I went to the awards show in Vegas when Reba was the speaker and the same thing happened there. Some of the crowd clapped while I watched others shrug their shoulders. Keep speaking what you feel Dixie Chicks. Other famous people have made some of the same remarks and have not been treated this way.
Opal Glass says:
There are so many fresh singers who deserve nominations’ and never get one. But, as dar as I’m concerned, the Dixie Chicks do deserve all the music awards they could get, and I have requested their “Traveling Soldier” everywhere.I wpild also love to hear Trace Adkins “For the Rest of Mine” and Tim McGraw’s “Pease Remember Me” Thanks a bunch.
mark says:
Calvin…you’re an idiot. Artists have a social obligation to speak out and use their talents to make the world a better place. I for one am tired of people bashing the chicks. Get a life.
ED Vetter says:
Definatelly, the Dixie Chicks should get the nomination and a metel to.
tacoma picker says:
The Chicks…still a hot topic. My two cents; the chicks are an incredible group. vocally and musically the best act i have heard since fleetwood mac. they deserve to be nominated in every major category, if criteria is met. i do not feel they have met the criteria.during the period for wich they are to be reviewed for nomination, july-june, the chicks did not release a cd or single. are they the vocal group of the year??? definitely!!! qualify for nomination?????
tacoma picker says:
my grandpa used to say, a sure-fire way to start a fight is to talk about religion or politics. the question at the beginning of this blog, was, do the chicks deserve nomination as vocal group of the year? we can rant about the political side. we can rant about cross-over music. we can rant about other artists not making the cut. i do believe however, the question still remains, do the dixie chicks deserve nomination in this category.
Mary Jane says:
tacoma picker, how come you didn’t answer your last question?
Mary Jane says:
Grammys 2008 was great; for me, Beatles tribute the best. And during it,
a thought hit me. For those who choose to rant on about Natalie ‘till the end of time, and keep punishing (yes, punishing) and prosecuting the group, please think about McCartney’s Let it Be…Let it Be…Let it Be.
Yes, whispered words of wisdom but no doubt lost on those Dixie haters who WILL not or CANNOT give up their “cause,” whatever that is.
Sarah says:
Of course the Dixie Chicks DON”T deserve any nominations! They suck! And they are just not patriotic at all I mean our troop are over there fighting for us and they deserve so much but they die for our country. And the Dixie Chicks just deserve a load of crap not even a nomination!!!
Mary Jane says:
Sarah, like I said, “whispered words of wisdom will be lost on Dixie Chick
haters who…” A bigger person will let it be.
Warren says:
Gee, Sarah, are you part of the diplomatic corp. The big question has been the misuse of troops. Patriotism appears to be in the eye of the beholder.
Terri_J says:
Warren you got it right!! Not only the misuse of troops bu the troops we have lost in this senseless war that was cooked up by TWO OILMEN that will leave the Whitehouse wealthy !! Sarah is probably very young and doesn’t fully understand the lives that this administration has destroyed so when Natalie made her statement she knew then in 2001 what was going to happen. To Ken the veteran who is stationed in Texas I so appreaciate what you are doing and salute you for your service and your courage for our country. There was nothing NOT nothing ever meant to downplay or not give our Troops all the gratitude and praise that they so deserve. There were no WMD’s Kids lost there lives for WHAT?
This post is suppose is suppose to be about the DIXIE CHICKS and it should be. They had paid enough. They paid the highest price a group can possible pay. People like Sarah and No Longer a DC fan are people that no matter what NOTHING will ever make them happy reguardless of the situation. Move on and let the go. Those girls have paid enough. Leave them alone. If you have to have someone to talk about then look no furthur than the White House. That should keep you busy for a while are at least until November when Obama takes Office. Chew on that for awhile.
Sincerely,
Terri Campbell
Palestine, Texas
Mary Jane says:
Terri, thanks for a great post with which I totally agree, but afraid it will
be lost on Sarah and her kind. To carry it on for five years now says they
have little better to do. Again, for them, please do yourselves and the
rest of us a favor and get over it. LET IT BE.
Kim in GA says:
I like the Dixie Chicks music but lost respect for them. We do have the right of speech but the timing of it stinks. They lost a lot of fans and country radio stations as well. They just didn’t think. Then the rude behavior on their part with Toby Keith. Remember the t-shirt that Natalie wore. That was uncalled for. The fans and media will not let the Chicks forget what happened. When they did return with a single, it was like a slap in the face.
Maj says:
The truth bites and since many Country fans are happy to freeze out the chicks it just goes to show the mentally of these people.
Natalie was right but these haters refuse to admit that it was wrong for the Bush administration to lie to start a war that will never be over and for so many young Americans to die for this lie still is sickening to me.
While you curse the chicks Bush and his friends are smiling all the way to the bank counting how much they are making from this war. IT IS ALL ABOUT THE MONEY FOR THEM.
Look at the amount of money that is being spent on the war per day while Americans DO NOT HAVE HEALTHCARE, sad.
Dixie Chicks haters, please check the history of country music before using the words ‘real country music.’
If you all go to church which bible do you use…I remember that the bible speaks about forgiving one another.
I thought that Natalie was right on the mark with that speech, no matter where she said it.
STRONG AMERICANS LADIES..DIXIE CHICKS
Mary Jane says:
Many of the Chick haters behaved sooo much worse than the Dixie Chicks
and that is THEIR problems. And yes, there is such a thing as forgiveness which helps EVERYONE>
Bob says:
Certainly the Dixie Chicks should be up for a nomination as should Tim McGraw and Faith Hill. The people who are saying that the Dixie Chicks, Allison Krauss, Carrie Underwood are not representative of country are the same type of people that said the same thing about Barbara Mandrell and the Mandrells sisters in the 70’s and the same type of individuals who said Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Merle Hargard were too hard for country or the Chet Atkins ruined country music with his productions. This is all a matter of taste and country music should welcome new styles and old styles equally. Bill Monroe was not welcomed to start with as his music was hillbilly music, not country music. People complain about hearing the same songs over and over again on the radio, but then they want to limit which artist are classified as country. Maybe the listener isn’t country.
Mary Jane says:
Bob (2/26), very good post and I absolutely agree.
lovey says:
i do not not not think they only should get the end of the toe of the boot yuk yuk to them
theresa says:
I really like the dixie chicks music-they haven’t done anything lately that i’ve heard on the radio-but i do feel tim and faith should have been nominated before them-they did denounce country music-are should i say natalie maines did
and the others decided to go along with her.and natalie maines said toby’s music was stupid -but what about good bye earl -it could be called a little stupid.my only problem with the dixie chicks is that they go to another country and natalie maines bashes our president and the state of texas.and the others side with her-even though they are all from texas.no matter how you feel about the president -they put there country down so to speak -and i know some people will never forget -but as far as the dixie chicks go there music is good -but they hardly ever show thereselves around country music -they should not be nominated for country music awards -to knock out country artist like tim and faith,toby keith who are true country
fort worth,texas PROUD TO BE A TEXAN
DIANA says:
I think that Carrie Underwood deserves any awards because she has a beautiful voice.
I also think that Dixie Chicks are a very talented group and country fans and radio should be ashamed for destroying their cds and refusing to play their music.
I agree with Natalie and many tv stars have also said the
same thing regarding President Bush and they are still
starring in movies.
Country fans should grow up and accept the Dixie Chicks
because they are a very talented group.
Lance says:
The problem with the Dixie Chicks and most of the people that are using their celebrity status to bash the war and the president are they seem to have forgotten 9-11. Bush did not ask for the terrorists to attack us, killing thousands of americans. The press hates Bush so bad they seem to forget that very concept. I still like their music, however I will not purchase it. I cannot, in good conscience, support a group that has forgotten that very horriffic day. I have a hard time understanding how America rallied around Pearl Harbor for over 50 years when we were attacked, but could not rally for more than a few months before they went to blaming Bush for 9-11. They came up with all kinds of excuses about why to blame Bush, and forgot many of the terrorists were here before he came to power. Why are they not after Clinton? I wish the Dixie Chicks would remember that before they opened their mouths.
joyce says:
since when do the DixieChicks deserve a nomination let alone an award in country music anymore? didn’they turn their back on country music after the comment about Pres. Bush awhile back? then they recorded a song I’m not ready to back down! so 4get the nominations and awards 4 them they don’t deserve them
Jerry says:
when are we going to get back to country music?
mary weaver says:
I love the Dixie Chicks music. They work hard and deserve a cma award. PLEASE PLAY MORE DIXIE CHICKS music.
thank you and I will be listening…
Mary Weaver, Pasadena, Texas
terri says:
everybody needs to quit worrying what the dixie chicks say and do. let them play there music
joyce says:
they can play their music they just don’t deserve an award from any of the country music awards shows
SANDY says:
oh my gosh!~ I LOVE the Dixie Chicks. They’re music is as good as it always was. Seems to be a lot of people are seeing eye to eye with them. They will definitely get my vote at the cma’s.
Kathy says:
NO WAY, no Dixie Chicks no one wants to see them let alone hear them. The station I listen to doesn’t even play their music unless it is requested and I really haven’t heard it for a long time so I guess the chicks better go back to Canada or France where they are really wanted.
Terru_J says:
Please DO NOT click on the above links as they are links to a virus that will harm your computer. I will get this reported ASAP. It don’t understand why someone would would want to hurt our property. Everybody take care and God Bless.
Terry Campbell
Palestine, Texas
vbpyjz hmknz says:
flhsqwe avcy onuxzqrge zsbnfwq kmpvhqd clzoa ribah
mzlx wcorajgze says:
tdvklcwp rqoacsif ksuoaqngw pymbdirz xmzaput txynzv xcuko http://www.wrxui.ftjveu.com
Kev says:
are they still around. I wasa hoping they would be dead by now, the damn traitors.
Terri_J says:
Why Kev? Because Natalie said she was ashamed the President was from Texas? But to wish someome DEAD? Isn’t that a little extreme? Are you proud of the shape the country is in? Do you like paying $3.50 a gallon for gas? Does the fact that over 4,126 men and women have been killed in a trumped up war not make you a little angry? Over 32,000.00 have come back from Iraq taht will never be the same! Natalie is not a traitor! She spoke her mind just as you did but she never wished anyone DEAD!
I too am from Texas and only live about an hour from Crawford and I too amd ashamed that this has been the most
ignorant, money hungry, STUPID president that this country has ever seen. I also am ashamed I am from the same state he is. He has give the whole nation a blemish that will take years to erase. My grandchildren will be paying off the debt he has made.
Terry Morton
Palestine, Texas
Jen says:
If you love the USA, you have to hate George Bush. How can you show support for him when he’s destroying the place you supposedly feel patriotism for?
You’re just bitter you voted for him and turned out to be oh so wrong.
DCX are way more country than most of the electronic pop that’s passing for country these days.
Terri_J says:
Excuse me JEN — I never voted for George. I am a democrat and proud of it.
Terri_J
johnny cash leave your guns at home says:
johnny cash leave your guns at home…
How do you come up with so much material to blog with?…
Todd Pollard says:
George Bush is our President and it is treason to not show support of Him in time of war. President Bush liberated the Iraqui people and killed Saddam Hussein for his role in 9/11. We have not been hit anymore.
Warren says:
Todd, that’s enough now mate. Off to bed.
RoCkkk DC! says:
To all who dislike the Dixie Chicks: Females here in the United States of America should be welcomed to say what they think & should be supported to voice their opinions. If not, then why don’t we call our country Saudi Arabia?
vivacoldlig says:
Very nice Blog, I will tell my friends about it.
Thanks