The Chicks to Perform National Anthem at Democratic National Convention

The Chicks, formerly known as The Dixie Chicks, will perform the ‘Star-Spangled Banner‘ at the Democratic National Convention on Thursday night. This performance marks another chapter in the group’s complex political history.

The Chicks rose to fame with their breakthrough albums ‘Wide Open Spaces’ in 1998 and ‘Fly’ in 1999, both achieving diamond status by the Recording Industry Association of America, indicating over 10 million copies sold each. However, their political statements would soon lead to a significant backlash.

In 2003, during a concert in London, singer Natalie Maines publicly expressed the band’s opposition to the U.S. war in Iraq and criticized then-President George W. Bush, stating, ‘We do not want this war, this violence.’ This prompted a backlash in the U.S., particularly from country radio stations that previously supported them.

Although Maines later issued an apology, she rescinded it years later, and the band remained distanced from the country music scene which favored more pro-war sentiments in songs from artists like Toby Keith and Darryl Worley.

In 2006, The Chicks released an album addressing the controversy, featuring the song ‘Not Ready to Make Nice.’ This album won the Grammy Awards for Album of the Year and for the song of the year, marking a significant achievement in their career. However, this would be their last album together until 2020.

After changing their name to drop the term ‘Dixie,’ in response to social justice protests following George Floyd’s death, The Chicks released a new album, ‘Gaslighter.’ They performed the ‘Star-Spangled Banner’ at the virtual DNC in 2020, and now, four years later, they will perform live at Chicago’s United Center.

The Chicks’ upcoming performance carries cultural significance as their song ‘Not Ready to Make Nice’ has been used recently by those opposing Kamala Harris‘ candidacy. Thursday’s performance will not include this song but represents a moment for the group to reclaim their narrative.

Additionally, singer Pink is scheduled to take the stage, performing her anthem ‘What About Us,’ alongside musicians including her daughter, Willow Sage Hart, emphasizing the theme of political protest.

The event will also feature performances from local groups, such as Chicago’s The Pack Drumline, showcasing the musical talent of the region.