In the early 2000s, The Chicks (then known as The Dixie Chicks) were one of the biggest crossover acts in country music. But then, in the midst of the U.S. embarking on a war in the Middle East, one onstage comment changed the world of the band forever. But facing controversy wasn’t a new thing for this group (nor was it the last time they would be condemned), and they chose to respond in their music. This week, NPR Music critic Ann Powers and editor Daoud Tyler-Ameen discuss “Not Ready to Make Nice” by The Chicks, from 2006. To access this episode and every episode in this series, plus get sponsor-free listening for every episode of All Songs Considered and Alt.Latino, sign up for NPR Music+ at plus.npr.org/nprmusic. NPR Music+ helps support NPR and public radio. Follow NPR Music coverage and the Tiny Desk Concerts at npr.org/music
Ann Powers is a Critic and Correspondent at NPR. She focuses on the intersections of music genres, pop culture, and cultural movements, exploring themes within arts and entertainment, theater, and society. Ann's insights and critiques have been featured in numerous outlets, including KCLU 88.3 FM, The Washington Post, and WAMU 88.5.
