Joho the Blog
An Entry from the Archives

After you strike a blow for freedom of speech, listen to some damn fine music. It's good shit. I think I'll listen too some now! Ahhhh! "Long Time Gone" -- so sweet. I need to buy more.

Never heard of Dixie Chicks but I will buy!

Thanks for the heads up, David. I just bought it. I've been meaning to ever since I heard them favorably reviewed. Now I have a reason....

Whow there, pardner! If the Dixie Chicks want to bad-mouth Bush while touring Europe, they certainly have that right. They should also realize that words, as do actions, have consequences. They are entitled to speak their minds, but that doesn't mean they should be given a free pass. You wouldn't be running out to buy a CD by a pro-Bush artist if his or her comments caused stations to pull the artist from their playlists, would you? I don't think you are defending absolute "free speech", but only defending those whose utterances you agree with. Am I correct?

Of course. I'm against muzzling pro-Bush speakers, but I wouldn't go out and buy their CD. With the DC's, I'm not only hoping to support their right to speak their mind without suffering economic consequences, but also supporting the content of what they said. I guess I just don't feel bad about that.

(Yes, I am a card-carryin', donatin' member of the ACLU.)

For what it's worth, I don't believe "free speech", as guaranteed by the Constitution or even as interpreted by the most liberal of the Warren or Burger Courts, necessarily means being able to express one's opinion "without suffering economic consequences". If you want to go out and buy (and encourage others to buy) the Dixie Chicks' latest offering in response to what was said, that's fine. If I choose not to buy their CD (and discourage others as well) because of what was said, that's fine, too. And, if the Station Manager at the local Country station chooses to either heavily plug their music (highly unlikely, but it *could* happen) or pull their CD(s) from the rotation, that's his/her right to do so, too.

Like I said in my first response, speech, like actions, has consequences.

Yes, it's our right to buy or not buy, play or not play, the Dixie Chicks because we do or don't like their political views. That's not the question. The question is whether punishing someone economically for her political views is a good thing to do. IMO, a world in which we punish one another economically for expressing our political beliefs is one in which the right to free speech becomes a right in name only.

So, sure "speech has consequences," but that doesn't mean all and every consequence is fair, just or makes the world a better place.

Your view leads to saying blacklists are just fine, doesn't it? By "blacklisting" I mean a loosely organized agreement to drive someone out of a line of work because of political views that have nothing to do with that line of work. I think that's despicable behavior and erodes everyone's ability to speak her mind. Blacklisting may be our right (I don't know if it is), but not everything we have a right to do is something we ought to do. Would you favor blacklisting actors whose political views are unpopular?

It just seems funny to me that musicians, such a Toby Keith can release "Courtesy Of The Red White and Blue" which makes reference to "Putting a boot up their ass." And as the news is stating the death tole of the Iragi people: Woman, the elderly, children and babies are getting that boot up their ass, as Toby Keith so proudly sings. THAT is something to be up in arms about! Not whether the Dixie Chicks like Bush or support this war. They support life and I support them!

I hear a lot of you people talking about freedom of speech, but I didn't see any of you take a stand for Trent Lott. What about HIS freedom?

No, David, my view does not lead to saying that blacklisting is fine, although my definition of "blacklisting" is much narrower than yours, apparently. I would not have supported the blacklisting done in the '50s, but that type of blacklisting was done at the source of the product (by Hollywood studios and producers), not by consumers or distributors (movie houses o theaters).

Now, if the Dixie Chicks get dropped by their label strictly due to their political views, and no other label is willing to sign them for the very same reason, I'd call that blacklisting and would not support it.

Gotta run. I have another thought or two to add but will need to post it separately later on.

Letter from radio station website in Lubbock, home of the Dixie Chick that spewed forth about our president:

Name: LT Layne McDowell
Date: 03/15/03
Time: 01:54:49 PM

Comment

An open letter to the Dixie Chicks:

Earlier this week, while performing in London, you stated that you were ashamed that our President is from your home state. I wonder if you realized how many Americans would be listening. This American was listening. This Texan is ashamed that you come from my state. I serve my country as an officer in the United States Navy. Specifically, I fly F-14 Tomcats off carriers around the world, executing the missions that preserve the very freedom you claim to exercise. I have proudly fought for my country in the skies over Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan without regret. Though I may disagree wholeheartedly with your comments, I will defend to the death your right to say them, in America. But for you to travel to a foreign land and publicly criticize our Commander in Chief is cowardice behavior. Would you have so willingly made those comments while performing for a patriotic, flag-waving crowd of Texans in Lubbock. I would imagine not. How dare you pocket profits off songs about soldiers, their deaths and patriotism while criticizing their Commander in Chief abroad, even while they prepare to give their lives to ensure your own freedom of speech. Please ask yourself, what have you done to deserve that sacrifice? Do not try to justify your comments by claiming that you made them only because you care about innocent lives.

Never once in our history have we committed troops to war for the purpose of taking innocent lives. We do it to protect innocent lives, even yours. If the world leaders of the late 1930's had the vision and courage of our present Commander in Chief, perhaps the evil men who caused the death of millions in WWII would have never had the opportunity to harm a soul. The potential loss of millions of lives in the future at the hands of today's evil men necessitate action. In a separate correspondence, I am returning to you each and every Dixie Chicks CD and cassette that I have ever purchased.

Never again will I allow my funds to support your behavior. All you have done is to add your name to a growing list of American "Celebrities" who have failed to realize that they have obtained their successes on the
backs of the American blue-collar workers such as our servicemen and women.

To Natalie Maines: This Texan, this American will continue to risk his life to guarantee your freedoms.

Vision and courage???? Oh pulleeeze! More like delusions and ego. Did you hear how many times Bush said "I will defend..."? Well, where was this vaunted courage when he would have been eligible for service in Vietnam? How many times does it need to be said that EVERY ONE of the Bush gang who was pushing for war WEASELED OUT of any meaningful service during Vietnam. (Of course I exclude Powell, who pushed against war as long as he could.) Bush and company are all about asking OTHERS to make sacrifices they would never dream of making themselves. That theme runs through their entire program, foreign and domestic.

Having worked in radio for a while I feel I have to say this.
Stations don't have to play the Chicks if they don't want to. As a matter of fact, those that do play their music get hate mail/emails/calls. Don't mess with the country listeners.
The radio stations are just covering their asses. It's not to "economically punish" them for their views.
Maines should have thought twice about what she said. It will probably cost them their careers in the end. Was it worth it?

I too have worked a little radio, including stints at a couple of NPR affiliates and a country station in the Midwest (talk about extremes!). One thing the NPR affiliates and the Midwestern country station had in common: they broadcast what the listeners wanted to hear (especially those listeners who were either major local funders (in the case of the NPR affiliates) or major advertisers (in the case of the Midwestern country station), and wouldn't hesitate to pull programming if they received listener complaints (again, especially if the complaints came from major local funders or advertisers, respectively). In the case of the NPR affiliates, this also applied to influential local community leaders or activists, whether they be donors or not (although they often were donors, too). They also had to toe the line with the University administration.

Absolute "free speech" as you seem to define it, David, does not exist and never will exist. Filters or gatekeepers exist everywhere at all levels. Even those who claim to espouse "free speech" as you define it are themselves gatekeepers and, quite often, willingly or unwittingly acting as censors. The Internet is the closest we have come to a means of "free speech" as you define it, and even it has built-in filters (financial, technological, etc.) that limit whose voices can be heard.

I think that the music of the Dixie Chicks is beautiful. They have often brought tears to my eyes. I've several of their CDs here at the house that I've listened to often.

As a former member of the US Army Special Forces, I will never listen to them or buy their product as long as Natalie is part of the group. That is my right just as it was her right to speak.

For what it is worth, I think that the First Ammendment covers *political* speech and has no jurisdiction over any other speech, especially pornography.

what good is natalie maines' right to free speech if she can't exercise it? why should she have to watch what she says if her rights to say what she wants are supposedly guaranteed under the constitution? why should anyone in america? i thought that was the point of free speech. other than "fire!" in a crowded theatre, you can say what you like and people respect your right even if they don't respect your views. how much respect for her rights do we have as a society if we condemn her for speaking her mind and drive her out of the entertainment business?

this war has a lot of funny things going with respect to it. congress is the only body that declare war, but it hasn't. congress has had to vote on tax cuts and other expenditures without knowing how much the president wants to spend on the war. the president himself rarely gives press conferences where the people can ask him direct questions. speeches and public appearances are all we see. i don't want ari fleischer to justify this war to me and answer some real questions, i want president bush to do it! many people, including natalie maines it would seem, don't feel convinced that american blood needs to be spilled in the iraqi deserts right now for america to be safe. she wants to say so out loud. how is that disrespectful? she's a citizen just like the president. just because he is more powerful than she is doesn't make him more right, just able to make his views reality.

i disagree that it's unpatriotic for her to speak her mind. i think it would be unpatriotic for her to hold the views that she does and not say anything. if you disagree with what she says, wait for your turn, then say your piece. don't try to shut her up. somebody might try to shut you up one day. when it comes to free speech, you are only as free as your opponent.

just my $0.02

Nick, no one is trying to "shut up" Natalie Maines. She has the right to say whatever she wants. However, she should have realized beforehand that what she said would alienate a good deal of her audience here in the U.S. I seriously doubt she just spouted that off without any forethought. Weighing our words before speaking (or writing or chatting online or whatever) is wise whether we are a so-called "celebrity" speaking on the public stage or simply the average person speaking one-on-one with another person or in a group. You don't just blurt out the first thing that comes into your mind, do you? I would hope not, anyway. Also, one cardinal rule as an entertainer is not to offend or alienate your primary audience. It's simply bad business to do so. Maines violated that cardinal rule and now she and her fellow bandmates are having to deal with the consequences.

I only wish that people realize that the only reason that the DC's were allowed to go to Europe and to say what they said was due to the wars that were fought for freedom. Without the war, there would be no freedom. Paris would be a part of Germany. Look at the Normandy beach cemetery. 10,000 American soldiers died for France's freedom. War is BAD. However being free is worth the price. Sadam would take over the world if we allowed it. Never forget the WTC!

I never listen to country music, til now. I spent $50.00 on Dixie Chicks CD's today. I am really pissed about what has happened not only to Natalie Mains, but Micheal Moore, and even coservative commentator Bob Novak. The Jingoists in this country want to shut off all dissent, unless of course Clinton is president. Remember how the Right Wing howled about Somolia and Kosovo.

The freedom of speach is a privalage given to us by our government. Notice, in many other countries there is no freedom of speach. would someone in korea speak out aginsed there government or its officials? i think not. not without fatal consequesces. The comment that she made was not only a spit in the face of the united states, but also a formal discracing of everyone who has ever fought for the freedoms which she chooses to use aginsed our President and our nation. remember jane fanda in Vietnam. it is my stance that all of the movie and musical icons in our nation who don't have anything to do with, or any knowlege of our government should stay out of its affairs. and further more these people should stop trying to gain publicity by merely being controversial with there comments. for i am proud to be an AMERICAN and will stand by this country. and for that i feel i earned the rights of freedom which i hold. lets ask ourselves what we all have done to deserve to be part of this country and all its freedoms and securities...

I personally am not a fan of the Dixie Chicks, nor do I agree with their statement, but isn't freedom what our soldiers are fighting for and have always fought for? As a free American I personally choose not to support things or people I do not believe in. And I agree with previous statements made, actions do have consequences. If you want to make a bold controversial statement you better be prepared for the consequences of your actions or communication. It's my right not to agree with you and it is also my right to make the choice not to support you in any way based on your actions.

What's so perplexing to me is that many Hollywoodians share the view of the Dixie Chicks, yet I do not see anyone boycotting their movies or sitcoms. Will anyone be burning a copy of "Bowling for Columbine" in the fireplace tonight?

Why is choosing to not buy or listen to DC music oppression? Isn't it the same thing as buying their CDs in support? And to those who believe that dissenting views are supressed - if that is true then how is it that I am reading your views?

I think they should have kept their mouth shut. I dont care if she is behind the war or not but she shouldnt go and tell it to other countries. But in the end she is the one that the world laughs at because Britain is fighting for US. Just because she is a freakin celebrity doesnt mean she can say any thing she wants. My father is a Senior Master Sargent in the air force and my grandfather is a Viatnam vetran and they both are proud of it. I am too.
-CB aka proud american and a person that is behind the Pres. 100%

oh yeah!!!! I will not buy their music nor listen to the radio stations that play them that is the same thing as suporting them and that is one thing i WILL NOT do!!!!!they have lost all respect from me.
-CB

CB, you're right. She can't say anything she wants just because she's a celebrity. She can say anything she wants because she's a US citizen. Sort of what it's all about, isn't it?

Knowingly its true, every United States citizen has the right to say anything they want; but furthermore having the right to such things as freedom of speach and presss, should inbed a sort of respect, for these rights and the country which grants then. Having a respect for this country should coinside with having respect for its leader. While everyone may not always agree with what the president says or does, no matter what, he is still the one who holds the highest office in the government which maintains this great land.

For that, if for nothing else, he has earned my deepest respect... shouldn't he have yours also??

I love freedom. I love life. I do not think war is a good idea. I think that certain leaders have things in mind other than human life. I think human life has the same value throughout the globe. I love the Dixie Chicks and I have tickets for this tour.

Natalie Mains has the right to join with the mental giants - sarcasm, for those retarded few -who support "peace at any price." I have the right to boycott her music or radio stations that play them.

So the consensus from those opposed to the Chicks appears to be: You've got your freedom of speech, so shut the hell up!

FWIW, Natalie Maines didn't say anything bad about America, our military, or baseball and apple pie. She said she was ashamed of President Bush. A man who has never held a job friends of his dad haven't acquired for him. A man who was indulging in "youthful indiscretions" in his late 30's. This is a guy who pissed away every last ounce of sympathy the rest of the world had for us after 9/11 by bullying and threatening the rest of the world to get them to support a war that has NOTHING TO DO with 9/11. His administration fabricated and exaggerated evidence to push us into war. I'm ashamed of him, too. Any sane person should be ashamed of his utter inability to lead.

I don't like country music, so I still probably won't buy any Dixie Chicks music. Ah, heck, maybe I will, just to throw a little support their way.

I totally agree with Lt. McDowell. It couldn't be said better. Very intelligent, very true response. How can Americans who enjoy the fruits of this country, turn around and condemn the actions of those brave ones who fight to keep it that way. If they don't like it here and what we have to do to keep it, then they should ship out to another country. I, too, will NEVER use my hard-earned funds to support the Dixie Chicks.

To Lt. McDowell: Thank you and thank you to all of the soldiers who are dedicating their lives to defend ours and our way of life here in America. I am apalled at the people who are so ignorant to the BIG picture. They become so narrow-minded and self-centered.

Listen, When you say you support our troops, but don't support our President, you are being very hypocritical. The President is the Commander and Chief of the US Armed Forces. He may not carry a weapon, but neither does Tommy Franks most of the time. Neither did Colon Powell, or Swartzchoff (sorry for spelling) most of the time. These MILITARY leaders are responsible for making very tough decisions that they feel are in the best interest of this country. As a veteran myself during the Gulf War period, I can tell you that the Armed Forces have more respect for these people than you can ever imagine. So if you support and respect the troops, then you must realize who the troops respect and support. We are in this together, and although you may have the right to protest, please realize you are protesting against those who made hard decision along the way to bring that right to you. Protests at this stage are doing more harm than good. We are there now. And we are not coming back until the job is done. So gathering in the streets and speaking out against the war now, will do nothing but cause a riff between the American public during a time when we need to stand together.

Dave D.
I think maybe you have too much time on your hands. You seem to be spending a lot of time going back and forth on this one. Accept it. Natalie has the right to express her views. Read the Declaration of Independence, it doesn't say our liberties stop at the water's edge. For that matter, it doesn't say that God gave these rights only to Americans. Sure, you can boycott the Dixie Chicks if you want. Stations can stop playing their music if they want. That is the point, freedom of expression does allow media to present whatever points of view they want, and whatever entertainment they like. Speech does have consequences, as did Trent Lott's remarks. So deal with it. Buy, don't buy, listen, don't listen, your choice. My problem is where does anyone get off telling her what she can say, or where and when she can say it. Chill out, get a video, comedy perhaps.

I've been listening to the Dixie Chicks since their first big hit and think they are exceptionally talented. That doesn't mean I'd want a young and naive singer acting as my spokesperson before a European audience. Remember, Maines wasn't speaking just for herself when she expressed her displeasure with President Bush. She said "We" and was speaking for all Texans, it seems. Freedom of speech is one thing, but taking advantage of it and electing yourself spokesman for a large group of people is another.

Peggy

I fully agree with Nathalie. I bought all 3 CDs. All in all Texas should be as proud of the chicks as they should be ashamed for Bush .

I am proud to be an American and I have the freedoms that I have because of all the fine soldiers that are willing and able to serve their country to guarantee me that right. BUT as an entertainer, Ms Natalie, should have realized that her remarks were improper--would she blast the President of Germany or make those similar remarks blast Saddam Hussein while doing a concert in Iraq--No not gutsy enough-because as he has proven his capibilites for sadistic actions-she would have probably been executed like he has done to his own people even his own sons-in-laws. Whether or not I support the Commander in Chief (and by the way-I do)I would never make the comments that she made-it is because, again, of these fine soldiers and those that have fought before and those that will fight again, that we, the United States Citizens have the many privileges we have. If she is so ashamed, tell her to move to France or Germany, I am sure they would accept her. Maybe she and Peter Arnett could get a job together blaspheming this great country. She needs to first of all grow up and second "as a mother" that she so stated, she needs to realize that every ACTION has a REACTION and apology or not-you cannot take back what you have already said! Freedom of speech=YES but loose lips and brain disengaged =NO. Sorry for your loss! You have loss four huge fans in this family because we have military friends and family over their fighting! Maybe your child will chose this lifestyle too one day, and then maybe you will not feel the same--President Bush thanks for caring!

What did my ancestors DIE for anyway? My future son-in-law is in Iraq NOW laying his LIFE down for what? ahem..FREEDOM...and FREEDOM OF SPEECH is one of them! I HAVE A LINK ON MY SITE TO SEVERAL PETITIONS TO SUPPORT OUR FREEDOM OF SPEECH, AND SUPPORT THE DIXIE CHICKS(NATALIE'S) FREEDOM OF SPEECH!

SIGN THE PETITIONS TO SUPPORT THE DIXIE CHICKS RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH! ALSO BOYCOTT THE CLEAR CHANNEL 'RADIO MONOPOLY' WHICH BANNED THEIR RECORDS. WHERE AM I ANYWAY, NAZI GERMANY?

SIGN THE PETITIONS TO SUPPORT THE DIXIE CHICKS RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF SPEECH! ALSO BOYCOTT THE CLEAR CHANNEL 'RADIO MONOPOLY' WHICH BANNED THEIR RECORDS. WHERE AM I ANYWAY, NAZI GERMANY?

I believe all of you have the right to speak your minds. That's why we call it "Free Speech". Yes, even the "Hypocritcal Dixie Chicks". Please do not forget that we are America because of all the uniformed men and women who protect this great nation. But most of all those who led America to where it is, such as President Bush. I did not vote for Bush at the polls, but I am happy that someone is taking a stand against that horrible sadistic man, Sadam Hussein. I know there is woman and children being caught in the cross fire. It pains me to see that. But I reccommend you bleeding hearts to look at the things he is doing to the woman, children, and men of his nation. And let us not forget the day our twin towers fell. The end justifys the means.

I believe all of you have the right to speak your minds. That's why we call it "Free Speech". Yes, even the "Hypocritcal Dixie Chicks". Please do not forget that we are America because of all the uniformed men and women who protect this great nation. But most of all those who led America to where it is, such as President Bush. I did not vote for Bush at the polls, but I am happy that someone is taking a stand against that horrible sadistic man, Sadam Hussein. I know there is woman and children being caught in the cross fire. It pains me to see that. But I reccommend you bleeding hearts to look at the things he is doing to the woman, children, and men of his nation. And let us not forget the day our twin towers fell. The end justifys the means.

I believe all of you have the right to speak your minds. That's why we call it "Free Speech". Yes, even the "Hypocritcal Dixie Chicks". Please do not forget that we are America because of all the uniformed men and women who protect this great nation. But most of all those who led America to where it is, such as President Bush. I did not vote for Bush at the polls, but I am happy that someone is taking a stand against that horrible sadistic man, Sadam Hussein. I know there is woman and children being caught in the cross fire. It pains me to see that. But I reccommend you bleeding hearts to look at the things he is doing to the woman, children, and men of his nation. And let us not forget the day our twin towers fell. The end justifys the means.

people do have their right to say anything they please. But it is a whole different story when you go over seas and bash the person that is saving your butt right now. you represent the american people when you go over seas. I dont want those people thinking Im like that. Do you? And another thing that got on my nerves,like maany other people on here, would be that she would not dare say that in the US.She would be too scared to, although she should be because they would be booed out of the statium.
CB

There is a very big difference between the 'right' to say something and saying the 'right' thing. Nobody will disagree that Natalie had the RIGHT to say those thing. Many people, including myself (Gulf War Marine), think what she said was wrong and improper. So put up all the 'Freedom of Speech' petitions you want. That is not the issue. The issue is that she didn't have to keep her big mouth shut, she just should have. There is a responsible time to exercise your freedom of speech and although you have the right to use it whenever you want, responsible people use it at responsible times.

Sorry, Smitty, but freedom of speech *is* the issue. Yes, she has the right to say what she wants. Yes, you have the right to say that she should have kept her big mouth shut. The question is whether she should be shunned *economically* for what she says. If we're going to try to hurt people's income because we don't like what they say politically, speech becomes very expensive, not free at all.

You are proving my point for me. She makes her living with the public's money. In order to be economically successful, she has to have public support. It is the profession that she chose. It goes to show just how irrisponsible her statements were. Not only irresponsible as an American citizen, but professionally irresponsible. You will have to excuse me if I don't feel sorry about Natalie's finacial status. She has more money than I will probably ever see. And she got it from us, the public. She can't expect to make remarks like that in PUBLIC and expect those who dissagree to keep fattening her wallet. I have never been in show biz, but I know not to bite the hand that feeds me unless I expect to go without that food. Freedom of speech IS NOT the issue. The ramifications you face for the indescretion used when and where you say those things is the issue. I support her right to say what she wants, when she wants to say it. However, she must be willing to suck up the backlash for saying these things in PUBLIC. Nothing is free. Not even the freedom of speech.

I can't believe some of these comments that I have read. Natalie Maines had the right to speak against the president. She said that Bush has made her be ashamed that she was a texan, NOT she hated texas or the United States all together. Honestly, how many of you people actually voted on having a war anyway? Do any of you people really know why troops are out there in Iraq in the first place? I don't think you do. Neither do I. Any sane individual would not vote for president Bush as a president. Look at the stock market, the economy, the jobs that are out there. Is the president doing anything about massive layoffs in this country? I dont think so. Tell me, how the hell can someone spend money on a unknown war, while there are kids in this country who even don't have textbooks in their classrooms, or a qualified teacher? I think that Natalie is one the upmost sane persons in this world, especially her views on the president. Some of you people really need to wake up and smell the coffee.

Tony,

With all due respect, it is that kind of thinking on MOST of our parts that led to the events of September 11th. We SHOULD have all learned that we cannot turn a blind eye to the unstable leaders of other countries. I agree that we do have many problems in this country that do need addressed. However, they are immeasurable compared to what would happen if turn our backs to dictators like Saddam Hussein. We can no longer wait until we are attacked to defend ourselves. September 12th was TOO LATE. As far as President Bush goes, he does not run this country by himself. The same constitution that gives you the freedom of speech, guarantees that much. There are leaders in Washington who know much more about foreign policy than you and I. These people have dedicated their lives to making and keeping this country strong. President Bush, no matter what you may or may not think of him, has surrounded himself with one of the best group of advisors and cabinet members ever to be assembled in Washington. Democrats and Republicans alike will agree to that. I would disagree with anyone who says this decision was made lightly and without extreme consultation. The President did not wake up one morning and say "That's it, I have had enough". Maybe, just maybe, the people in Washington know more that you and I.....and what's best for this country and it's freedom.

i would like to first say to toni that i find it completely inacurate to blame pres. Bush for the stock market and further more i think the comment u made proves our ignorance in blaming whoever we can for what ever we want. the market fell prior to the 9/11 terrorist attack. want to blame someone for our blimished econemy, blame bin laden.

also arguing over weather natalie can or can't say what she wants is beside the point. the point is she can't expect to make comments like the ones she already made and still expect every one to stand behind her. whether or not she feels she has the right to such comments is irrelavent, the fact still stands she must now reap the consequences.

further more the attention is focused on all the comments being made by all of these public icons and hollywood stars. they refer to this war and the officials in charge as morons, unjust, and as not knowing what is best for this country. jessica lange went so far as to say to a crowd in spain that she hates the president and is embarrased to be an american. my words to her"fine don'tbe an american, move your ass out." ass my words to every one else who wants to bi*ch about this great country, "try somewhere else."

and for all who chose to listen to all these comments made by anti-bush musicians such as Eddie Vedder, Tom Morello, Lenny Kravits, and (of course) Natalie Maines, maybe we should take a further look into the background of these musicians (most of whom didn't finnish highschool) and compare them to the rather lengthy list of achievements of our top officials. then see who really has the knowlege to be speaking for or aginsed any of these political issues. George W. Bush, Vice pres. Dick Cheney, sec. of state Powell, Sec. of defence Rumsfeld, Sec of homeland Security Tome Ridge, national Security adviser Condoleeza Rice. take a look into their background and you will see that infact they are highly qualified enough to be making the decidions they are and that they are knowlegable enough to be speaking to the public. and until someone with enough background comes along maybe all these "stars" should shut the hell up and stop trying to make a dollar by getting into the spotlight every chance they have to be contraversial.

i belive we should take a look

I am saddened by the protests against our President and the action he has taken to defend our homeland. Our President takes the threats against our country seriously, and the decision to go on the offensive was made because this nation was forced to watch "our" citizens die when terrorists flew "our" planes into the World Trade Center. The loss of lives and property in the WTC tragedy should have gotten the attention of every American who claims this soil as home. The so-called "Freedom of Speech" Natalie so recklessly used to bash the leader of our great nation was paid for with the blood of our soldiers, along with the blood of victims of terroism. Well, I believe the blood spilled to allow us the privilage to live here and enjoy so many liberties comes with the responsibility to respect and appreciate the ultimate sacrifices that were made by those who gave their lives for our country. I consider it a privilage, not a right, to live in America. If anyone should be ashamed, it should be the ones who disrepect our President, our nation, and our military. Perhaps the people who are speaking out against our President and our military by demanding their right to free speech should look beyond their individual needs and realize that if our liberties as a whole are not protected, there will not be a United States of America available to enjoy these very costly "freedoms" that all Americans own. Also, let's not forget that President Bush tried to avoid this war. However, as President, he has the responsibility of protecting our country and every citizen living on her soil. So even if you disagree with what's happening, please give President Bush and our military repect. They deserve it.

i would just like to say that i would not feel safe if we left saddam in power with any kind of weapons. the man has invaded other countries before and while there is no link to the bin laden organization, there is proof of those cells working in iraq. saddam supports anything that is anti american and further more anti bush.
i will not except lightly when our government says "it might be a good idea to stock duct tape and plastic, cause u never know what can happen." thats rediculus this is america many men and wemen have died for this country to be safe now shouldn't we feel that way

u know we live in a messed up generation when
our tallest basketball player is chinease
one of the best rappers is white
the best golfer is black
the french call us arrogant the germans don't want to go to war
and a female country singer is speaking aginsed teh president to her redneck crowd

I agree with freedom of speech, but not ignorance. The Dixie Chicks should be hanged in epigee for being stupid bitches. I hope your web site goes bankrupt for supporting anti-american sentiments. Screw the Fat Ugly Bitchs - No Dixie Chicks allowed in Texas !!!!

Duane it's ignorant people like you that should be hanged. If you don't have an intelligent thing to say.......Dont!

Please don't take my comments the wrong way. I don't agree with what Natalie had to say at all. She is the one that has to face the public. She did hurt the nation. How dare she go across seas and slam our President. Like it or not he is in office because the majority of Americans put him there, and he does deserve respect. He is looking out for our best interest. I am sorry, but you make a comment like that and you have to face the financial consequences.

For those of you who don't know why we are over there check this out......http://www.whitehouse.gov/infocus/iraq/decade/sect4.html

hey you bush supporter here this and just to tell you D. Weinberger that the sales are skyrocketing not plummiting go to http://www.michaelmoore.com/
it will show you. for the bush supporters read all this

Stupid White Men
By: Michael Moore

The you and your in this whole paper is referring to “President” Bush as this is from a letter to him.

“Your list of accomplishments—in just your first few months in office—is brutally impressive.

You have:

• Cut $39 million from federal spending on libraries

• Cut $35 million in funding for advanced pediatric training for doctors

• Cut funding for research into renewable energy sources by 50 percent

• Delayed rules that would reduce “acceptable” levels of arsenic in drinking water

• Cut funding for research into cleaner, more efficient cars and trucks by 28 percent

• Revoked rules strengthening the power of the government to deny contracts to companies that violate federal laws, environmental laws, and workplace safety standards

• Allowed Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton to request suggestions for opening up national monuments for foresting, coal mining, and oil and gas drilling

• Broken your campaign promise to invest $100 million per year in rain forest conservation

• Reduced by 86 percent the Community Access program, which coordinated care for people without health insurance among public hospitals, clinics, and other health care providers

• Nullified a proposal to increase public access to information about the potential ramifications of chemical plant accidents

• Cut funding for Girls and Boys Clubs of America programs in public housing by $60 million

• Pulled out of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol agreement on global warming, ultimately signed by 178 other countries

• Rejected an international accord to enforce the 1972 treaty banning germ warfare

• Cut $200 million from workforce training programs for dislocated workers

• Cut $200 million from Childcare and Development grant, a program that provides child care to low-income families as they are forced from welfare to work

• Eliminated prescription contraceptive coverage to federal employees (though Viagra is still covered)

• Cut $700 million in funds for public housing repairs

• Cut half a billion dollars from the Environmental Protection Agency’s budget

• Overturned workplace ergonomic rules designed to protect workers’ health and safety

• Abandoned your campaign pledge to regulate carbon dioxide emissions, a major contributor to global warming

• Prohibited any federal aid from going into international family planning organizations that provide abortion counseling, referrals, or services with their own funds

• Nominated former mining company executive Dan Lauriski as Assistant Secretary of Labor for Mine Safety and Health

• Appointed Lynn Scarlett, a global warming skeptic and an opponent of stricter standards
• On air pollution, as Undersecretary of the Interior

• Approved Interior Secretary Gale Norton’s controversial plan to action off areas close to Florida’s eastern shore for oil and gas development

• Announced your plan to allow oil drilling in Montana’s Lewis and Clark National Forest

• Threatened to shut down the White House AIDS office

• Decided to no longer seek guidance from the American Bar Association on federal judicial appointments

• Denied collage financial aid to students convicted of misdemeanor drug charges (though convicted murderers are still eligible for financial aid)

• Allocated only 3 percent of the amount requested by Justice Department lawyers in the government’s continued litigation against tobacco companies

• Pushed through your tax cut, 43 percent of which goes to the wealthiest 1 percent of Americans

• Signed a bill making it harder for poor and middle-class Americans to file for bankruptcy, even when facing overwhelming medical bills

• Appointed affirmative action opponent Kay Cole James to direct the Office of Personnel Management

• Cut $15.7 million from programs dealing with child abuse and neglect

• Proposed elimination of the “Reading is Fundamental” program, which gives free books to poor children

• Pushed for development of “mini-nukes,” designed to attack deeply buried targets – a violation of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty

• Tried to reverse regulation protecting sixty million acres of national forest from logging and road building

• Appointed john Bolton, an opponent of nonproliferation treaties and the United Nations, as Undersecretary of State fro Arms Control and International Security

• Made Monsanto executive Linda Fisher deputy administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency

• Nominated Michael McConnell, a leading critic of the separation of church and state, to a federal judgeship

• Nominated civil rights opponent Terrence Boyle to a federal judgeship

• Canceled the 2004 deadline for auto makers to develop prototype high-mileage cars

• Named John Walters, an ardent opponent of prison drug treatment programs, as drug czar

• Appointed oil and coal lobbyist J. Steven Giles as Deputy Secretary of the Interior

• Named Bennett Raley, who has called for the repeal of the Endangered Species Act, as Assistant Secretary of the Interior for water and Science

• Sought the dismissal of a class-action lawsuit filed in the United States against Japan by Asian women forced to work as sex slaves in World War II

• Appointed as solicitor general Ted Olson, your chief lawyer in the Florida voting debacle

• Proposed to ease the permit process for constructing refineries and nuclear and hydroelectric dams, including lowering environmental standards

• Proposed the selling of oil and gas tracts in Alaska Wildlife Preserve

Whew! I’m tired just typing this list! Where do you get the energy? (It is in the naps, isn’t it?)”[/QB][/QUOTE]
Bush, “Are you an alcoholic, and if so, how is this affecting your performance as Commander-in-Chief?

Again, there is no finger being pointed here, no shame or disrespect intended. Alcoholism is a huge problem; it affects millions of American citizens, people we all know and love. Many are able to recover and live normal lives. Alcoholics can be, and have been, President of the United States. I greatly admire anyone who can deal with this addiction. You haven’t touched a drop of alcohol since you were forty. Congratulations.
You have also told us that you used to “drink too much” and that you eventually “realized that alcohol was beginning to crowd out my energies and could crowd, eventually, my affections for other people.” That is a definition of an alcoholic. This does not disqualify you from being President, but it does require that you answer some questions, especially after you spent years covering up the fact that in 1976 you were arrested for drunk driving.”
“How do we know you won’t turn to the bottle when faced a serious crisis? You’ve never had a job like this. For twenty years, from what I can tell, you had no job at all. When you stopped “drifting,” your dad set you up in the oil business with some ventures that failed, and then he helped you get a major league baseball team, which required you to sit in a box and watch a lot of long, slow baseball games.
I know this is very personal, but the public has a right to know. For those who say, “Well, c’mon it’s his personal life—that was twenty-four years ago,” I have this to say: I was hit by a drunk driver twenty-eight years ago, and to this day I can not completely extend my right arm. I’m sorry, George, but when you go out on a public highway drunk, it’s no longer just your PERSONAL life we’re talking about. It’s my life, and the lives of my family.
Your campaign people—the enablers—tried to cover for you, lying to the press about the nature of your arrest for drunk driving under the influence. They said the cop pulled you over because you were “driving too slowly”. But the arresting officer said it was because you had swerved off on the shoulder of the road. You yourself joined in denial when asked about the evening you spent in jail.
“I didn’t spend time in jail,” you insisted. The officer told the local reporter that in fact you were handcuffed, taken to the station, and held in custody for at least an hour and a half. Could it be that you truly don’t remember?
This is not a simple traffic ticket. I can’t believe your enablers actually implied your drunk driving conviction wasn’t as offensive as Clinton’s transgressions. Lying about consensual sex you had with another adult while you are married is wrong, but it is not the same as getting behind the wheel of a car when you are drunk and endangering the lives of others (including, George, the life of your own sister, who was with you in the car that night).
It is also NOT the same, despite what your defenders said before the election, as Al Gore volunteering that he had smoked pot in his youth. Unless he was driving while stoned, his actions endangered no life but his own—and he wasn’t trying to cover it up.
You’ve tried to dismiss the incident by saying “it was back in my youth.” But you were NOT in your “youth”; you were in your thirties.

Bush, “Are you a felon?

When you were asked in 1999 about your alleged cocaine use, you replied that you had committed “no felonies in the last twenty-five years.” With all we’ve learned about tricky answers in the last eighty years, that kind of response could only lead a reasonable observer to believe that the years before that were a different story.
What felonies did you commit before 1974, George?...

Also, you recently made it a requirement for any young person seeking financial aid for collage to answer a question on the application that reads: “Have you ever been convicted for any drug offense?” If they have, they are denied student aid—which means many of them will not be going to collage. (Or, to put it another way, according to your new orders Sirhan Sirhan can still receive student aid, but a kid with a joint can’t.)
Doesn’t this move on your part strike you as a little hypocritical? You would deny a college education to thousands of kids who only did exactly what you have implied you did as a young person? Man, that takes some chutzpah!”
“We do know, George, that that you have been arrested three times. Other than some peace-activist friends of mine, I don’t personally know anybody who has been arrested three times in their life.
In addition to the drunk driving, you were arrested for stealing a Christmas wreath as a prank. What was that all about?
Your third arrest was for disorderly conduct at a football game. Now this I really don’t get. Everyone conducts themselves in a disorderly manner at a football game! I’ve been to many football games and I had many a beer spilled on my head, but to this day I’ve never seen anyone arrested. You’ve gotta work pretty hard to get noticed in a crowed of drunken football fans.
George, I have a theory about why and how all this happened to you.
Instead of having to earn it, you have been handed the presidency, the same way you’ve come by everything else in your life. Money and name alone have opened every door for you. Without effort, you have been bequeathed a life of privilege.
The night your conviction was finally revealed to the nation, just days before the election, it was painful to watch you swagger as you tried to chalk up your “irresponsible” action as the mere “ youthful indiscretion” of having a few beers with the boys (smirk, smirk). I really felt for the families of the half a million people who have been killed by drunks like yourself in the twenty-four years since your “little adventure.” Thank God you kept drinking for only another several years after you “learned your lesson.” I think, too, of what you must have put your wife, Laura, through. She knew all too well how dangerous it is when any of us get behind the wheel. At seventeen she killed a high school friend of hers when she ran through a stop sign and collided with his car. I’m hopeful that you can look to her for guidance if ever you feel the pressures of the job getting to you. (Whatever you do, don’t turn to dick Cheney for help: he’s had two drunk driving arrests on his record for more than twenty-five years!)

You learned at an early age that, in America, all someone like you has to do is show up. You found yourself admitted to an exclusive New England boarding school simply because your name was Bush. You did not have to EARN your place there. It was bought for you.
When they let you into Yale, you learned you could bypass more deserving students who had worked hard for twelve years to qualify for admission to collage. You got in because your name was Bush.
You got into Harvard Business School the same way. After screwing off during your four years at Yale, you took the seat that rightfully belonged to someone else.
You then pretended to serve a full stint in the Texas Air National Guard. But one day, according to the Boston Globe, you skipped out and failed to report back to your unit—for a year and a half! You didn’t have to fulfill your military obligation, because your name was Bush.
Following a number of “lost years” that don’t appear in your official biography, you were given job after job by your daddy and other family members. No matter how many of your business ventures failed, there was always another one waiting to be handed to you.
Finally, you got to be a partner in a major league baseball team—another gift—even though you put up only one one-hundredth of the money for the team. And then you conned the taxpayers of Arlington, Texas, into giving you another perk—a brand-new multimillion-dollar stadium that you didn’t have to pay for.
So it’s no wonder you think you deserved to be named President. You didn’t earn it or win it—therefore it must be yours!
And you see nothing wrong with this. Why should you? It is the only life you have ever known.”

to tell you laure bush and his no good brother stole the election even with the cheating in flordia gore still had more votes he didnt get voted for by the majority of americans he just was a no good rotten lying damn cheater.

now bet that laure

Too bad you didn't type it. Next time you want to cut and paste a book, you should just give us the link and we can go there ourselves.

go dixie chicks. i will continue to support TROOPS,THE INDIVIDUAL MEN AND WOMAN WHO GIVE THEIR LIVES FOR ME AND ALL OF AMERICA. i do not support bush the president of the united states. NATALIE MAINS IS A BUSINESS WOMAN AND MOTHER AND SHE SPOKE HER MIND AND I AM PROUD TO BE THE SAME. I WILL GO AND BUY THEIR C.D. RIGHT NOW AND I WISH I COULD BUY ALL OF THEM. i am happy that i am NOT from the same state as bush. actually Natalie bush just grew up in Texas but was not born there. so don't be too ashamed. PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN WHERE AT LEAST I KNOW I'M FREE.

Have any of you seen the following item? It was posted to Space.com's forum 'Free Space' on 3/29/03. 'Free Space' is at this URL:

http://uplink.space.com/postlist.php?Cat=&Board=freespace&PHPSESSID=

It should be worthy of comment one way or the other, here and elsewhere.

The letter:

Letter from Navy pilot LT Layne McDowell to Dixie Chicks
From radio station website in Lubbock, home of the Dixie Chicks aired 3/15/03

An open letter to the Dixie Chicks:

Earlier this week, while performing in London, you stated that you were ashamed that our President is from your home state. I wonder if you realized how many Americans would be listening. This American was listening. This Texan is ashamed that you come from my state. I serve my country as an officer in the United States Navy. Specifically, I fly F-14 Tomcats off carriers around the world, executing the missions that preserve the very freedom you claim to exercise. I have proudly fought for my country in the skies over Kosovo, Iraq and Afghanistan without regret.

Though I may disagree wholeheartedly with your comments, I will defend to the death your right to say them, in America. But for you to travel to a foreign land and publicly criticize our Commander in Chief is cowardice behavior. Would you have so willingly made those comments while performing for a patriotic, flag-waving crowd of Texans in Lubbock. I would imagine not. How dare you pocket profits off songs about soldiers, their deaths and patriotism while criticizing their Commander in Chief abroad, even while they prepare to give their lives to ensure your own freedom of speech. Please ask yourself, what have you done to deserve that sacrifice?

Do not try to justify your comments by claiming that you made them only because you care about innocent lives. Never once in our history have we committed troops to war for the purpose of taking innocent lives. We do it to protect innocent lives, even yours. If the world leaders of the late 1930's had the vision and courage of our present Commander in Chief, perhaps the evil men who caused the death of millions in WWII would have never had the opportunity to harm a soul. The potential loss of millions of lives in the future at the hands of today's evil men necessitate action.

In a separate correspondence, I am returning to you each and every Dixie Chicks CD and cassette that I have ever purchased. Never again will I allow my funds to support your behavior. All you have done is to add your name to a growing list of American "Celebrities" who have failed to realize that they have obtained their successes on the backs of the American blue-collar workers such as our servicemen and women.

To Natalie Maines: This Texan, this AMERICAN, will continue to risk his life to guarantee your freedoms. What will you do to deserve it?

I just finished watching the Primetime special with the Dixie Chicks and it makes me so mad seeing what has been done to them. I'm a 22 year old college student who considers herself to be liberal. I agree 100 percent that you don't have to be pro war to support the troops. The Dixie Chicks have every right to express their opinions, that's what this country is all about, freedom...of speech, expression. There are many people in this country who agree with their statements, but they are the ones taking the heat because they are in the public eye. They have become scapegoats, and it makes me literally sick when I hear about the death threats against them. In saying what they say, they are using the exact same freedom that our troops fight to protect. They are fighting to protect our freedom. Some Americans may not agree with the reason why we are in this war, but they do support the men who are fighting it. It makes me sad that people are so closed minded that they can't see the distinction and they don't respect the opinions of those different than theirs.

ROCK on Natalie, Emily and Marty. I have all three of your CDs and your music has made an impact in my life. Their songs and who they are mean a lot to me. I respect them more than they can say. They are full of courage and passion and are fighting back for what they believe in. They deserve the praise of their fans, not this backlash that includes threats and protests at concerts. I am a fan that supports them no matter what. I will continue to support them in whatever way I can. I will also continue to let their music be a part of my life.

I went and bought the album, plus two others of theirs, for just this reason!

My mom said she remembers when Bob Hope and other performers toured tirelessly to support the soldiers at war - a break from what they had to endure. What must have been on the minds of all of those people? The future WAS uncertain. Just as it was to our Founding Fathers. Today we benefit from and are simultaneously blinded by the freedom that was then so uncertain. The comment by the Dixie Chic struck me as lacking respect for the POSSIBILITY that our future freedom may be threatened and the President will be held accountable for the outcome. Kenneth Pollack states, in his book 'The Threatening Storm', that Iraq could aquire nuclear capability in five to ten years, which would mean 2004 if Saddam started in 1999, which is believed possible. Is nuclear attack a possibility? Who would have guessed on September 10th the events to come the following day? Finally, I'd like to see Michael Moore (author of 'Stupid White Men') go up against Dinesh D'Souza (author of 'letters to a young conservative') in an open debate. Anyone wanting an intelligent view of America ought to read D'Souza's books. Michael Moore comes off sounding like the Dixie Chic.

Back from work. I wanted to ask Jack if he's aware that most of the news networks - except Fox - predicted Florida for Gore around 8 p.m. before the poles were closed. That's against the law. And ... they were wrong. It's calculated that the early prediction may have cost Bush around 90,000 votes. Around 11 p.m. or so - when the poles were closed - Fox predicted, accurately, for Bush. Fox took a lot of criticism for their legal and accurate prediction. But you heard nothing about the early, illegal and inaccurate predictions. Why? Don't expect to hear it from Michael Moore.

To Apryl I'd say human life OUGHT to have the same value across the globe, but, in reality, humans commit heinous acts against other humans. Read about Saddam's regime and you will quickly see examples, such as, slow dipping in acid to death or the raping and murder of wives and daughters to create fear and eliminate opposition to his dictatorship. These methods are used as a FIRST - not as a last - resort. Would you consider these acts evil if done to your family? Saddam - if he's still alive - intends to harm us. Stalin killed over 20 million people. Saddam studied Stalin's methods IN DETAIL. Kill a thousand people a day and how long before you get to 20 million? Many people operate from an idealistic view of the world, especially, here in America where we have been isolated. When I think of that girls comments overseas I can't help but wonder if she realizes how much our government NEEDS our support to see Iraq through to a better future, which is now tied with our own. Forget whether she has the right to speak or not. The fact is her comments don't aid the situation regarding world opinion. Many countries have bad dealings with Iraq and around the globe. The U.S. is far from first when it comes to invasion and conquer - if you see America as being the invader. Go back in history and read for yourself. We too have a right to defend our way of life.

Finally, to Sarah, it doesn't seem that the Dixie Chicks are a scapegoat. Though, I agree, people should not be threatening their lives. They did make a mistake. Think of the timing of the comment. Parents, siblings and friends of soldiers fearing the one they love may be killed. The longer the war last the more soldiers likely to die. Any and all public support - AT THAT TIME - was needed, and still is, to get them home alive. The reality is that we were and are committed. To voice out at a music concert - where people are likely drinking and having a good time - seems tremendously inappropriate and irresponsible. The Dixie Chicks are getting flak because they touched a nerve and did so at a venue which doesn't exactly lend the necessary respect. What if it were her child in that war?

Sarah, for this -

"In saying what they say, they are using the exact same freedom that our troops fight to protect"

- and other things you wrote, let me say: Well done! It is good to see there are people out there (apparently over half of those who voted in the last presidential election) who understand what America is supposed to be about.

Let's take a look at the awful and terrible anti-war - and, therefore, of course, anti-patriotic - statement Maines made:

"'Just so you know we are ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas."

No wonder people feel the troops were put in mortal danger by Maines' remarks. She has done incalculable damage and no doubt is directly responsible for injury and loss of life in Iraq! Such words are borderline treason, putting Maines too close to war criminal status for her own comfort.

Or, perhaps, it is the administration that insisted upon war that is actually responsible for the maiming and killing of innocents and soldiers in Iraq? Some people's brains will begin hurting as they try to answer that question, which after all is a tough one. It would take a genius to figure out who is more responsible for loss of life in Iraq: Natalie Maines or George Bush, Jr.

In the letter I provided here, the lieutenant wrote:

"To Natalie Maines: This Texan, this AMERICAN, will continue to risk his life to guarantee your freedoms. What will you do to deserve it?"

Perhaps the best thing she can do to deserve those freedoms is to exercise them, and especially to exercise them when it is unpopular to do so. By making dangerously unpopular statements, the right to free speech is kept alive.

Navy ships periodically sail through international waters just off the coasts of other countries to demonstrate those waters remain international and not under a particular country's control. I believe Reagan asked this be done in the Gulf of Sidra during his confrontation with Qaddafi (though I am willing to be corrected on this point since I'm unwilling to do the research). And he was entirely correct and within his rights to do so. A Navy pilot, of all people, should understand this principle. Exercising freedom - especially when it is dangerous to do so - is freedom's best defense.

But those freedoms should be the birthright of every American citizen. The people who earned those freedoms, fought for them, risked - and often lost - their property and their own lives for them made such sacrifices in order for there to be a nation where freedom is a citizen's heritage. They earned it, and the America of today owes its legacy of freedom most of all to those brave revolutionaries. Who would be called terrorists in today's parlance.

In other words, if America continues to be what it has tried to be for over two centuries, Natalie Maines should not have to do anything to "deserve" those freedoms. They were hers from birth.

The lieutenant writes, "Do not try to justify your comments...." As well she should not. When the day comes when a citizen must justify exercising his or her right to free speech, or must earn it to the satisfaction of military officers, or must apologize for exercising it - then that will be a bad day for freedom in America.

John... sarcasm? Now I'll know not to take you seriously if you propose we start eating our babies. I could have said those soldiers are fighting to protect the very freedoms the Natalie Maines so freely exercized. Why not just state the OBVIOUS - as Sarah did. My brain hurts already. Maybe what I need is a concert ticket to the Chics this summer. Even if I don't like them I'll "support them no matter what". Maw... git me some more beans an' cornbread. Maybe Sarah's surprise that she's a 22 year old college student and considers herself a liberal got me started. I bet she doesn't meet TOO MANY LIBERALS like herself on campus? Maybe it sounds ludicrous to suggest - as I did - that Natalie Maines' comment had any impact on anything. As a friend said, "who cares what she says". Is it her right to state what she feels? Yes. Maybe I should have stated simply that I FELT her comment was disgraceful given the time and the place. Ofcourse, Sarah, your college professors will not likely take that position. And Hollywood won't take it either. Your liberal stance won't ROCK the campus. You'll fall perfectly in step as I'm sure Natalie Maines knew she would at that concert - most likely full of young liberals like yourself. ROCK ON Sarah! (You got Johnny Swift on your side.)

I read this site's post pretty often and go on with my daily life and choose not to comment. However........I think I'm sick and tired of hearing how sorry we are for her.....She took her freedom speak out and did it to the world. Now as I have the same fredom.....I'm going to take that to say I don't like her views and I will not choose to listen to her music any more. I don't feel sorry for her that she is having to face the music so to speak on it. For every action there is a equal and oppisite reaction. SOrry about your luck Natile. She couldn't have really felt like that comment would go over to well in America. Yes she has a freedom to say it but I think you should choose to use your freedoms of being an American maybe when your in America. The only reason she is making a big issue is because its hurting her fame. I personally feel she is getting what she deserves.

As a non-American I can say that many people across the world share the Dixie Chicks' anti-war views and criticism of the Bush Government. Unfortunately for these young women they have been singled out and made punching bags for those who don't share these views. What has started out as a controversy has become mania. Their problems go beyond loss of money and fame. They have been receiving death threats and their families have been harassed. I pray for the troops fighting in Iraq and I pray for the safety of these three young musicians.

D. Weinberger do me a favor if you own a business or if you have a friend that owns a business ask him to find come up with something that he believes in but a majority of his customers strongly disagree, with then ask him if he would make a great big sign and post it where all of his customers can see.
I think you might be one of these people that have the idea that you should be able to do whatever you want whenever you want but not have to take any responsibility for what you say or do. They Dixie Chicks have the freedom of speech and if they feel strong enough to suffer the consequences without complaining even if they lose there income (which by the way is exactly what will happen to the president if enough people disagree with him) then they have my respect. If you agree with them and can talk enough people into supporting them you will be supporting your believes and those who don't will be supporting theirs. A freedom people who are not celebrities have. If people disagree and don't support them you shouldn't have a problem with it. What you, the Dixie Chicks and the rest of the celebrities (the give there point of views about the war) need to understand the people that go to concerts, movies, and buy their records are customers. Everyday people in the real world lose their businesses because their customers have some proplem with their business even when their product is ok explain why this is different.

Dearest Jack the Poet,

Have you met a politician that isn't a no good rotten lying damn cheater?
My comment had nothing to do with anything you stated in your "Book" above.
I support all the men and women that are overseas fighting for freedom. I "respect" Bush for putting his foot down to all these meaningless peace talks with the Iraqi leaders, and beating that "Horrid Regime" into oblivion. The whole point of my comment was that Natalie had the right to say what she did, but it was disrespectful to "Our" leader and "Our" nation. She should take a lesson from Madonna. She doesn't agree with the war, but she did pull her anti-war video of the airways for the purpose of respect!
My Husband is a hardworking Ironworker. We are a middle class family. Don't lecture me about what Bush has or hasn't done! I know! But this isn't the topic of this forum! So Save it Jack!

Actually, the dixie Chicks PR was pretty clever.
When faced with the loss of their core fan base after the first London statement, they came up with a way to save their bacon.
How? Invent a new fan base.
How? Issue a bogus email saying this was all a vicious right wing conspiracy.
Attack the radio stations that have stopped playing the Dixie Chicks, not to force them into playing the chicks, but to get out the word that these right wing corporations were pressing their own political agenda.
What did this accomplish?
Every antiwar protester came out screaming foul play, buying up concert tickets dumped by disgruntled fans and buying up cd's to keep the charts up and the tour alive.
Big business does not give up profits easily.
All the derogatory comments about the fans, the tune changing every 15 minutes, the alleged slipping of the PETA ad, the nude Magazine cover, all designed to say "up yours" to ex-fans? No, all designed to bring new money in. The ultimate damage control.
Would a true antiwar thinker apologize? Read or watch the New Zealand interview. Would a true antiwar thinker say;

Transcript: The Dixie Chicks Interview with TV One's Holmes
New Zealand

Holmes: What did you actually say, and what did you mean?

Natalie: Uh...I said...what did I say? I said...um...we're
embarrassed...just so you know, we're embarrassed...

Martie: Ashamed...

Natalie: Oh, we're ashamed that the President is from Texas...is
that what I said?

Emily: Yeah.

Natalie: And it was a joke and it wasn't planned. And it was
really funny at the time. It got lots of cheers and that's what it was
meant for.

I don't think so. This band was playing the crowd. Telling them what they wanted to hear to bring up their share of the gate.
No strong political views here.
This band uses everyone for money. The antiwar crowd is their latest victim. Brilliant strategy on behalf of the Dixie Chicks PR.
It does further prove the only motivation this band has is money.
Viacom, which owns CMT, which is sponsoring the Meadia campaign for the D.C. owns KKCS & KILT, two stations that "Banned the D.C.", they also own a total of 180 radio stations.
Viacom is sueing a company that gave a lucritive contract to Clear Channel instead of them. Hence Clear Channel get's elected the vicious right-wing radio mugal out to destroy the poor D.C.?
Before you waste your money, spend a little free time on google.

Looks like the Dixie Chicks are receiving the awards they deserve - Absolutely Nothing from the Academy of Country Music awards this year. I bet the number one DC feels great tonight wearing her F.U.T.K t-shirt when it was announced to the world that Toby Keith was selected the Entertainer of the Year and the DC got not a single award. Maybe we will see t-shirts tomorrow morning with F.U.D.C. or F.U.N.M.

Ray

I am an old timer who spent 18 years as a country disc jockey. I've got to say that the people who paved the way for todays performers outclassed them in every way. Country "folk" used to stick together, not use national TV forums as an outlet for their PMS. I feel bad for Mark Maines and the rest of the Maines Brothers Band. It's got to be embarassing to have a fat loudmouthed pig like Natalie carrying their name in public. To attack a true patriot like Toby is the same book different chapter as her attack on Bush. She's trailer trash pure and simple and her so called star is dimming quickly, mostly because of the hot air coming out of her trashy mouth. Anyone remember Johnny Cash's "the one on the right is on the left"?

Yes, Natalie is certainly trashy. Not the "role model" for young girls she said she wanted to be during her interview with Diane Sawyer. Hope the DC's agent is smart enough to advise the "young chickies" to keep their ignorant mouths shut and lose the attitude. Hopefully they have learned that "freedom of speech" has it's consequences and also, make sure you know something about the subject matter before lashing out!

The Country Music Industry (CMI) is no better than any other music industry. It's always about profit. The CMI is profiting on the fact that Americans want patriotic music these days. The Dixie Chicks are just an example of a group that has "balls" enough to speak to the rest of us. I'm all for this Country, but laying balme on the Dixie Chicks for exercising their freedom to speak out is cause for concern. It's not just about firefighter, soldiers and beer. It's about what this country was REALLY founded on. Freedom. The freedom to speak and be heard.

And another thing. That speech by Reba McEntire (or was that Dana Carvey in drag) at the CMA left me with a sick feeling about the loyalty of the CMI. It sure made her sound like the classic "dumb hick"

F.U.T.K - Whoop it up!!!

I can't help but read the last post and wonder....Do you really think they are entitled to cry about the reaction they are getting from the public? They do have every right to say what is on their mind just as we have every right to not agree with it and do what we chosse with it and if that means we take our freedom of speech and lash back out at them then so be it. When you speek up in any matter you take the chance of having negative reactions to your opinions. If that wasn't what they wanted from it they should have just kept their big fat mouths shut. To go on a awards show and attack another person the way they did was just plain immature. Come on....when does it stop....she can't take the heat so shes lashing out like a child. Time to grow up Nataile and quit with the childish games. You want to bash Toby Keith go for it but don't make a spectacle of your self on national TV....yet again.

To the Fans of the Dixie's:

The Dixie's in my opinion were never a great recording group in the first place, putting them just above average as far as talent goes. There are alot more out there, yet to be discovered. So I say just move along and give somebody else a chance and stop crying that your record sales are down because of the statements you made.

Pray for Natalie Maines. She is just trying to impress Jody Foster. Anyway, she has gone too farby singing "Traveling Soldier" about Osama Bin Laden.

Hellow, please send to me emails.
thank you.

George Bush has never made any personal sacrifices for democracy.

The chicks have more intestinal fortitude than their county counterparts. Is'nt this what country music is supposed to be about a little rebellion. I am sure they love their county as much as the next country artist. Maybe they just don't like war. But I guess its just not patrotic to not like war. It's much more patrotic to send our soldiers to war without the proper equipment and oh by the way send that general away that said you will need many more troops. Meanwhile Bush will probably get re-elected and somehow after that he will figure out how to get our or Iraq and claim another sham victory. Meanwhile things in mid-east will stay the same or get worse. Truth is that Kerry is be more likely to finish the job in Iraq than Bush. Of course if we keep it up Bin Laden will defeat the US the same way we defeated the USSR.
No matter who wins the election I wish our soldiers a quick and safe return. A few years from now when soldiers are out of the service and can speak freely without fear of persecution we will know the truth about Iraq. I believe only they will be able to tell us the truth. A lot of times I am embrassed by the president. At other times I agree with him. Thus said "Democracy is a terrible form of government but its all we have" Winston Churchill I think. "George Bush is no FDR" and check out What Is a War President?
Franklin D. Roosevelt's grandson assesses George W. Bush's performance on msnbc's website.

Was I supposed to say something dumb here?

Remember the Chicks made that comment over there not here! Oh ya ain't you Libs packing your Bags and moving North. HA HA HA !!

Jeez, after reading a few of the above comments against the Dixie chicks, I wonder why anyone with a brain hasn't fled that turnip pile we call America A LONG LONG TIME AGO. Talk about cultish! It is so obvious now after the election results that over half the population of the good ol' USA is living post labotomy -- or has been infected with some mindnumbing disease which renders the victim clueless. How embarrassing for those of you who have to say you share a country with these people. If I were you I would go on tour....much like the Dixie Chicks did...and apologize to the world for A)not only your TERRORIST MURDERER ADMINISTRATION but also, 2) For the thick skulled, rabid mouthed, queer bashing, wife beatin', Fire'n'brimstone spewin', Abortion Doctor Shootin', "Gawd Bless Amerikka" recitin', Flag Wavin' IMBECILES who voted him in AGAIN. The blood is on allll their hands. Blood of the innocents in Iraq and Afghanistan. America has terrorized (and continues to terrorize) and has murdered (-and continues to murder) Hundreds of thousands more innocents than AlQaeda AND Saddam TOGETHER could ever hope to murder. Happy now? You one the killing contest for now. But, honestly, do you really think America will get the last word?
Hmmm, all the blood (of innocents) you've been spilling will not go unavenged, I am sure. And , as far as this WAR ON TERROR (oxymoron) goes, in killing thousands AND, IN continuing with your international PIT BULL routine, you have NOT REDUCED,
BUT INCREASED the number of terrorists signing up to join in the fight against America.
I hope all the good , feeling, thinking Democrats and liberals among you come to Canada...and that then God can flush some giant toilet in the US to be rid of all the foul, ignorant human excrement that seems to enjoy the majority vote.Man, I'm disappointed I was right about "the right".

Wow.... Shan... chill out man. Your extremism is showing. It's like you're all naked man, and it's NOT pretty. How do you live with all that venom coursing through your veins.... deadly, man. Did you even look at the rule:

"Criticize ideas? Yes. Criticize people for holding those ideas? No."

I don't think you did man. No ones going to listen to you if you poison all the reason in your statement with hate speech.

cool off man. It's embarrassing.

I wouldn't listen to their yokel shit if you gave it away. You people are fugging idiots.

The Dixie Chicks Rock

I like the Dixie Chicks and I don't believe people should judge them for not liking Pre. Bush. I think they are wonder artist and I love their music. Plus America is supposed to be the
"land of the free" then why are we being so judgemental of them and their opinions? For all we're doing is saying our opinions.

You can also buy a book For freedom By Jane Fonda. She profits in being a trator to her Country.

there are no innocent people - God

there are no innocent people - God

next time vote for a real change. vote third party!!! www.constitutionparty.com

I have permanently boycotted a local country station that refused to play Dixie Chicks music. I live less than 2 miles from the US border, in a country that is still free. It is truely sad that the terrorists are getting their way in causing the US Government, with their knee jerk reactions, to remove your freedoms. I am sure that freedom will ultimately prevail. History will show this to be a low point in American history.

Piss on the Dixie Chicks

The modern art world is extremely political and extremely liberal. I'm an artist that's had to hide my conservative leanings while silently enduring liberal rants for 25 years in order to make a buck. In entertainment in general, the country music world is the only sect where a conservative though CAN be had without being blacklisted.

dixie chicks: "waw-waw-waw"

Buford T. Justice: "Shut your ass"

I agree that the Dixie Chicks have the right to free speech...they chose the wrong forum and have refused to sincerely apologize. Mostly a little tongue in cheek lip service. Their actions following the BS remarks is what has most folks up in arms...I'll never forgive them until I hear a sincere apology. Don't put our president down when we're in a time of war when you're outside our borders. If it had happened in the US I wouldn't have a problem...I would not have agreed but I wouldn't have a problem with their expression. I won't buy their CD and I won't support any station that plays their music.

The Dixie Chicks are just one more example of the entertainment industry spouting off about politics in appropriate ways. I don't mind productive political commentary on US soil. Ex: We should protect the borders by [fill in your useful opinion here]. We can fight terror better by [fill in your positive message here].

What I don't like is negative hate speech aimed at nothing but tearing down this country. My money will never again go to any movie, record, or artist that offends me. That is my right as an American. Notice that I am not using a captive audience to force my opinions down anybody's throat. I agree with Laura Ingram, "Just shut up and sing."

I am glad they are back. I am glad they are not ready to make nice. They spoke what they felt! it is a right to us all. If you did not like what they said tough. How many times have you had a friend that said something you did not like? Did you stop being friends? How would you feel if you said something that you felt and were hated for it?
The Dixie chicks are a great band. They make great music. And they do not play the game of I better watch what I say or someone might get mad at me. How nice it is to have a true speaking freedom to do just that. How sad it is to know there are idiots in this country that do not agree on the freedom of speech.
I will support the chicks! and to all of you that say you will not by a album, or listen to a station that plays their music, it is no big loss to anyone. I see it in the real way, you will either stop listening to country radio or your will accept the fact that you are wrong in the way you feel and start listening.

Argue as you wish, BUT, had the Dixie Chicks said "I'm ashamed to be from the USA." There would not have been the fall-out as it was because she said "TEXAS"!!!!!! Mr. Bush did NOT like that!!

The Dixie Chicks have a write to thier opinion as I do. Mine is that they are a flock of old hens just doin a bunch of cackling. I for one will not purchase any of thier recordings or listen to any station that plays thier Uh? what is another word for thier alledged music?

i wouldn,t buy another chicks album for allthe money in the world. they have a right to their opinion and i have mine. in my book they disgraced our country and they can kiss this my money goodbye. our president may not be perfect but he doesn't go around slamming anyone but the terrorist. the chicks should at least thank him for maintaining their rights and keeping them alive.

These brain dead dodos are never going to resurrect their careers. They might as well go home and change baby diapers and make cookies. Maybe they won't screw that up.

While freedom of speech is obviously the foundation of our country, it’s certainly true that you don’t have to buy any product sold by someone with politics contrary to yours. Conservatives don’t need to buy Dixie Chicks music if they think George Bush deserves more respect, can conservative radio stations don’t need to play their music. Similarly, liberals don’t have to listen to Rush Limbaugh–and some liberals are going to buy Dixie Chicks music now, when they would not have previously. No matter what your politics are, you should at least have some respect for someone who speaks for what they believe IRRESPECTIVE of what it could cost them financially. That takes courage, and we could use more courage like that in Washington, in both parties and in all three branches of government.

I think the Dixie Chicks suck for what they did against the country. They should be blacklisted!

I'm with Duane. I used to like the DC.
Now I've thrown away their albums. It's not
about being pro/anti Bush.
They should be forced into exile for doing
what they did on foreign soil.
They don't deserve to live in this great country.

The Dixie Chicks have shot themselves in the foot for the last time.

Get back to the music and leave you political agenda at home

No more support for anything they do or release no matter if their music was the finest ever.

I am all for free speech, that is one of the principles that this country is founded upon. However, I was a fan of the DC until the comment. I can't say it was the comment that turned me against them, Bush is not perfect but he was the best choice, and I am from Texas. Anyway, what chaps my behind is the publicity that the DC's receive from all of this. They are a musical group. Period. They are not political science professors or foreign policy ambassadors. They are a group of musicians brought together to make money for a record label. Why does an opinion from one woman who just so happens to be a musician in a popular band, merit such a response. Natalie and all of the other so-called stars who think because they have made a ton of money singing and acting, makes their opinion much more credible than mine or yours. It is time to get over it Natalie. You said it, apologized for it and now take it back. Get real. You are a singer. If you had to make decisions like the President does every day, I would listen to your opinion. But you don't, so I don't listen to your songs anymore. Hey, that's the price you pay. Anyway hire another publicist because the one that is running this show needs to realize that my 10 year old can see this for what it is. A publicity stunt to sell more cd's.

Patrick Henry said, "I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it!". This is true freedom of speech, where you are not attacked by others for speaking out, but defended. Only someone with little capability of thought or true knowledge of our country would believe otherwise. Speech repression, especially repression of unpopular political views is never justifiable. If all sides of an issue are closed but one, how can an intelligent opinion of that issue be formed? For those here who profane America with the idea that repression is justifiable, shame on your dirty little brownshirt minds--Hitler would have loved you all. And for those of you with the courage to point out that freedom was smeared in this campaign of smearing the Dixie Chicks, bless your truly patriotic hearts. Freedom of speech is not a priveledge, IT IS A RIGHT! It does not exist because our present government "allows" it, it exists because our founding fathers put it in our constitution--the very constitution our president swore to defend. He was the target of the comment, he is the only one justified in action against it, or, as perhaps a better choice, he could try doing a less embarrassing job of leading this country.

the DCs bler it, first they took a shot at the pres. bush about something that they didnt have any idea about "im a mother so i know war is bad". that stupid twit has no idea at the amount of carnage that sadam had caused 2.5+ million dead. are things perfict. no. are they getting better YES. support the troops DONT support the DCs. the people in the mid east beleave nearly everything they here.

The DC's have as much right to free speech as any other American. I am practicing my own free speech when I refuse to buy their music or encourage my local radio station to play it. This is not blacklisting or financially shunning them, I'm speaking with my pocketbook. If what they said wasn't so offensive to so many people, they wouldn't be feeling the bite in their pockets. The KKK, NRA, AARP and the NAACP also have free speech, but I don't have to support them either. Too bad the DC's don't understand "Put your money where your mouth is"

I have a challenge for all of you who have said that the DC's should not suffer for Natalie Maine's comments:
Every day, conservative college students are ostracized by their liberal professors [my own father is one of those "professors"] for their political views. The intent of these professors is to indoctrinate students into ONE WAY of thinking, which is their own. This is in direct contrast to the open-and-free-thinking that they are PAID to encourage. These students are given lower grades simply because of their ideals. As soon as these students make a comment which is apparently conservative, WHAM! They are punished for their way of THINKING. Not for saying anything bad about anyone or anything, just for THINKING. These lower grades can effectively cause for a poorer record, which can result in a poorer resume and a poorer career. So while this BIAS CRIME is affecting tens of thousands of PAYING students and their futures, I'm wondering why so many of you out there are so bent-out-of-shape about one single person who is losing some income [yet hardly suffering] due to something bone-headed that she DID SAY, out loud, in public. Obviously it was bone-headed, or she wouldn't have RETRACTED and APOLOGISED for it. Why aren't you good-intentioned people taking on the much bigger cause of the injustices suffered by those students? Don't you believe in justice, equality and fairness? You write in your threads that you do. But do you, really? These students would love to exercise their right to free speech, except that they are punished for it if they do. Not just bad-mouthed, but PUNISHED! Seems to me that, if one person being punished for her words is a travesty, than what of the many whom are punished for their thoughts and ideals?
Anyhow, here's my challenge- how many of you are willing to take-up this cause, which greatly dwarfs the DC situation? Any takers? Or are you proponents of having a Thought Police?

I wish the Dixie Chicks great success in the rock/pop market, cause that's where they belong. Or maybe even Hollywood. They surely aren't country.

I totally agreed with what Natalie said three years ago, and I am glad she reaffirmed it for TIME. I am ashamed of the so-called patriotic likes of Tobey Keith and the music mafia radio jockies for not playing their music. To me, the likes of Tobey Keith does not know what patriotism means. Alot of soldiers lost their lives, fighting for the right to free speech. To not honor that and support the right of their opinion (history proved that Natalie was right in light of the no WMD's, the CIA agent leak and charges of domestic spying and allegations of top members of his party involved in influence peddling)is un-patriotic to me. Tobey Keith and the music mafia radio jockies need to reasses what patriotism really means. The Dixie Chicks have bigger balls than any macho male in country music, because they stood by their statement and refused to back down, in light of having country music artists and the establishment turning their backs on them. I love the Dixie Chicks anyway, but even if I didn't, I would buy their album just to support their right to free speech.

It is not only that she took a shot at the commander in chief on forign soil. She has taken cheap shots and started fights she couldnt finish for sometime and continues to do so. She recently took a shot at Bill O. This guy has been defending her right to say what she wants and she attacks him? Toby Keith? I dont really care for TK, but she started that conflict. She has a bad case of trash mouth and regardless of political views I fail to see why you would want to support that type of behavior.

This is very simple.
1. The Dixie Chicks can say anything they want to--it's their right.
2. People then have the right to say if they disagree--which MANY people did. There was no reason to call them names, but it was emotional words at an emotional time.
3. The Dixie Chicks don't have any more rights or lack of rights to free speech than anyone else. So, it has nothing to do with anyone's violation of the right to free speech. In fact, the rights were exercised.
4. The Dixie Chicks just didn't like that people disagreed with them. And they're mad about it and writing new songs about how they're STILL mad about it.
5. Now, people just need to decide if they're going to buy their music and radio stations just need to decide if they're going to play their new songs--which also is their right to do.

Thanks Dale for adding the bit about Patrick Henry's quote- (though I think he in turn may have been quoting Voltaire), as it turns my stomach to see it plagiarized by an officer of our US Navy in an otherwise well-written comment above. My husband too is a Naval Officer and also flies jets in support the GWOT. If were ever to hear him say "I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it!" without proper reference to Voltaire (or Patrick Henry... or at least acknowledging that it was a quote!), we'd certainly have to have words... I'm proud of my husband, but I'm not a huge fan of his boss. Contrary to a belief that you can't support "our troops" without supporting this war, I'd like to mention that while many military families do support President Bush, many do not. In fact, some of the staunchest opponents of GW that I know happen to be in military families. Even my grandfather, a retired Army Col. and WW2/Koren war vet (who LITERALLY wore a black arm band the day of Clinton's inauguration- the guy's intensely Republican...) has made comments against Bush's handling of this war and his administration's complete lack of foresight.

So, as someone who is reminded daily- when I wake each morning and remember that he's still not here, he's still in Iraq, seemingly a million miles away- of the sacrifices that our uniformed service members are making, I do not support our president or agree with the decisions he and his administration have made. I have not earned the right to disagree with or dislike the president because I’m a military wife who has been without her husband for going on… let’s see- 9 months now, (several more to go)- I have this right because I am an American. Natalie Maines et al has just as much of a right to disagree with the President as anyone.

I happen to love the Dixie Chicks, from their first album to now. I respect them now more than ever for taking a tough and unpopular stand against a majority of their customer base in order to express their opinions and speak freely. Anyone who could suggest that a country singer is taking a political stand against the president just to fund album sales has clearly never been to a rodeo- you don’t MESS with country fans if you want them to give you money :) What they did took brass balls!

I'm a BIG Bush supporter, voted for him in both elections, and for the most part support his policies. And having said that, on several occasions I’ve been embarrassed by his actions. Do I have the right to express my sentiments and publicly insult our president; YES! My American citizenship gives me that right. Do I have a right to go abroad and publicly insult our president on foreign soil; YES! American citizenship does not end when we step outside our borders. While abroad, we must abide by the rules and laws of that foreign country, but insulting our own country’s leadership does not normally break any foreign laws.

Do I think Natalie put her foot in her mouth; SURE! But should such an off-the-cuff remark cause such a completely ridiculous controversy; ABSOLUTLY NOT! Not in this day and age, and certainly not in this country. Look, the president gets insulted and disrespected by hundreds of thousands of American citizens on a daily basis. Does that make any difference to the president; NO! He holds public office and it goes without saying that our (American) government will be criticized. I think they understand the concept. The fact that we are allowed to do so is why America is so special. Did Natalie's statement affect the president or his approval rating; NO! If anything it probably went up after "the incident". So why is it that an American citizen expressing an opinion, which is protected by her constitutional rights, is receiving death threats, and hate mail from a group of people who claim to be patriotic?

Country music fans are the most jingoistic group of people on the planet, yet they seem ignorant of what our country is based; freedom of speech, which also means freedom to dissent. Natalie never put down our troops, in fact the Dixie Chicks as a group wholeheartedly supported our troops from day one of the war. But Natalie, like millions of other Americans, questioned the motives behind the instigation of war. To do so was her constitutional right. Many people have fought and died to protect the freedoms that this country provides, and to prevent what happens to dissidents in other countries; need I say more? The freedom that this country is founded on is to allow its citizens to be a part of government and to give them an opportunity to change policy. How does a person who has no aspirations for public office help to change government policy? They do so by dissent, by expressing an opposing view. It does not matter how vile that opposing view may appear to others. You don’t have to agree with that person, but you must respect their right to have that opinion as long as it is within established laws.

We send troops to war to protect our freedoms, and in doing so, protect the rights of our citizen’s to disagree with our country’s politics. And yes, that includes their right to protest the wars that protect our freedom. That may sound outrageous to some, but it is the basis of our constitution; defending a person’s right to have their own opinions, no matter how opposite that opinion may be to your own. That is why our country is so great, and why it is so disturbing when such a large group of so-called patriotic people can lose sight of this. I can certainly understand a clueless few losing sight of our American credo, but when such a sizeable section of the country follows suit it seems to be more of a riot mentality where everyone seems to mirror the actions of a few ignorant individuals without making a thoughtful conclusion themselves whether it is the right thing to do.

The most disturbing fallout from all of this is that other (non-political) performers will have to walk on pins and needles whenever they wish to express an opinion which may be different from someone in the audience. It will put a subliminal gag order on every other performer or public personality, as they will have to mentally filter any off-the-cuff remarks or else jeopardize their careers because of ignorant individuals who may be feel offended by a difference of opinion. And that is a major loss of our constitutional rights and freedoms, and everyone will lose.

Most country fans will respond to the controversy by indicating that Natalie has a every right to insult the president, and they will quickly point out that country fans also have every a right to stop buying DC albums, and have them banned from the airway buy calling stations and asking them not to play their songs. I wholehearted agree with that but it’s not rights issue that is in question anymore. Buy burning Chick CD’s, and having them banned from country airways, the country music fans are indicating that they cannot respect or acknowledge Natalie’s right to say what she said without repercussions. It’s obvious that they are trying to punishing the Chicks for having an opposing view, and that’s simply unconstitutional and is overwhelmingly un-American. So tip your cowboy hat to all those patriotic country fan’s who seem hell-bent on reviving communism in this country.

You talk about free speech?
Bush doesn't believe in the constitution that he swore to uphold because he sure as hell has not done so.
You so called country fans that send death threats to women and condone torture of prisoners who haven't had the benefit of a fair trial and approve of W. spying on us wouldn't know what a spine was if it fell out of your body and landed on top of your pea brains.
In case you didn't know it, sending death threats is terrorism and you are a party to that by your complicity in your hate mongering.
I’d say that's counterproductive, wouldn’t you?
Now repeat after me, I will defend the right of anyone to speak their mind anywhere in the world that they choose to speak it because our fathers died for that right.
Now stop being a bunch of stupid asses and go out and buy the chicks CD and I'll forgive you.

SupermanHotMale

I like the Chicks and feel if you don't agree with what they beleive, fine. Personally, I do agree. This is the worst president this country has ever had. The idea of Jeb running turns my stomach. I hope the chicks continue to speak their minds and not let idiotic preasure from Bush lovers influence what they say. There are a lot of people who are on your side girls. Keep up the good work.

My response to your coverage of the Dixie Chicks is contained in 2 original songs criticizing Natalie Maines of the Dixie Chicks over her loose lips and idle talk concerning the president and the war. The first song is presently on the playlist at WFMU in New York. These songs can be heard, and downloaded for free via these links.

Merle Hasn't Lost His Fightin' Side
words and music by Bruce L. Thiessen, aka Dr. BLT (c)2006
(produced by Mark Yeary:20-year band member of Merle Haggard & the Strangers)
http://www.drblt.com/music/MerleVeryLast.mp3

American, Idle
words and music by Bruce L. Thiessen, aka Dr. BLT (c)2006
http://www.drblt.com/music/american.mp3

God bless America!

Go Dixie Chicks. Say it your way. Many of us agree with you. Freedom, Love and Music.........Life's Nectar's.

(According to a TV report, many feel that Chicks alienated their country base, and so far not much response from rock/adult contemporary radio. Also, a country station program director said their listeners are 50/50 on the chicks, and 50 per cent UNfavorable is too high...

From BOSTON RADIO WATCH: Boston's lone country music radio station WKLB-FM/Country 99.5 so far is ignoring the first two singles from the Dixie Chicks' brand new CD "Taking the Long Way" according to a news report on CBS4 News this week. WKLB isn't even paying attention to their summer tour by omitting their July 29th stop at TD Banknorth Garden on its concert section of its website. First album from the Chicks since their George W. Bush brouhaha in 2003 was released this past Tuesday(5/23).

First single, "Not Ready to Make Nice" which directly addresses the Bush situation, cracked the Billboard's Hot Country Top 100 at #36 in its first week of release but quickly dropped; the second single "Everybody Knows" is faring much worse at #48. Granted, The Dixie Chicks' latest effort is geared toward an audience different from the one on which they built their career so it would be logical for their new music to find home under a non-country format somewhere else on the local dial. However, according to Mediabase Music Info Systems, a service which keeps track of radio station playlists, no Boston area stations — country, adult contemporary, pop or rock — claim to be playing any of the trio's new music.

According to industry reports, nationally, "Taking the Long Way" CD will debut at #1 next week nevertheless. Sales projections, which started below 300,000, now are topping 400,000, and big-box retailers such as Wal-Mart and Best Buy reportedly were selling out of their on-hand stock.

I am more offened that our president went to war for the wrong reasons! And that he runs his mouth about Iran,and North Korea. That does more damage then the Dixie chics. I suport our troops they give us the freedom we enjoy, and the freedom to speak our minds! Go Dixie Chicks!

I saw a bumper sticker the other day which read - "Help stamp out inbreeding, Ban country music" A look down some of the comments here and I'm getting scared that it wasn't a joke - Fact is, for all those still in favour of killing yet more Iraqis, the "Not ready to make nice" ain't a country song. Its an anthem. It's a battle cry for all those people who have been lied to and know it. And to all the mothers who've had their kid come home in body bags to support the President who stayed safely in the US when his war was being fought. And the DC's ain't playin to their old country crowd, they're telling them, in very plain language too, to get stuffed. So if you don't have the balls to take on views which don't mirror what you've been fed - don't buy the CDs. And while you're at it - don't reproduce either cause people too dumb to listen to other viewpoints generally have way too much chlorine in their gene pool - they really dumb down the generations. Boy, if half of you nutbars had been around in the '70s we still be in Viet Nam and all the sixties protest music would have been censored. Thank God a few people back then had the guts to speak out against an immoral war. Funny thing now is that it has to be three women cause all the press and media are too gutless to do their jobs cause someone (like the one's here) would start screaming that they weren't "Patriotic". Pardon me while I go spew....

People, get a grip. This is America, where freedom of speech is a guaranteed right. I know why the Dixie Chicks are "Not ready to make nice". People don't allow you to have a different opinion anymore. Where I live, people repeatedly had the Kerry signs in their front yards torn up during the last election. Why does someone having a different opinion scare you? Why make death threats against a singing group?
1. I am a 6th generation Texan, and the only issue I took with what Natalie Maines said was that she said Bush was from Texas. He was imported here as a small child and went to East coast prep schools. She should have said he "claims" to be a Texan.
2. The reason the Dixie Chicks said anything about Reba is that Reba said all kinds of crap about them after what Natalie said all those years ago, and again on the awards show the other night. Grow up, Reba, your tv show sucked and was cancelled. Get over it.
Toby Keith also started the nasty sniping-- talk about your talentless blow-hards!
3. Contrary to what all you Republicans believe, not everyone voted for Bush. In fact, Gore won the popular vote.
4. Bush invaded Iraq when even his own father had the good sense not to-- no viable exit strategy, over 2000 American dead and more every day. Where were the weapons of mass destruction? Oh yeah, they didn't exist. Anyone who believes Iraq was invaded for any other reason than to turn attention away from the fact that Ossama Bin Laden had evaded capture and in a desperate attempt to gain control of Iraq's oil is naive at best.The oil fields were carved up to go to Bush's buddies before the invasion. But things didn't go as planned and we are all paying more at the pump that ever. WAIT---- big oil's profits are at record levels so maybe things did go as planned. And by the way, where is OSSAMA? Does the fact that the mastermind of 9/11 is a member of the Saudi Royal family (big buddies of Bush, they got to fly around the US when you and I were grounded after 9/11) have anything to do with Bush's reluctance to focus on him, and instead invade Iraq?
5. The Dixie Chicks were doing great before they ever went on "The View" which is usually just a gossipy catty yakfest that reminds me of what I don't like about my sex.
6. I purchased the album as did several of my family members. Great album, and I love it. I understand exactly what they meant about the type of fans they want. Nashville doesn't get it, but they didn't understand Wille, Waylon, Jerry Jeff and others who came back home to Texas where we "get" it.Hell. Radio wouldn't even play Johnny Cash in the years before his death, when some of his best music was created.
Nashville has had a track record of pushing away some of its most creative and rebellious innovators but there will always be fans who welcome them and their music.

the dixie chicks are nothing but stupid whores

Someone please tell D. Weinberger that deciding not to buy someone's album is also an excercise in free speech. And yes, some of us are ashamed the Dixie Chicks are from Texas, from the U.S.in general. Freedom of speech isn't just for radical musicians and liberals who try to change public opinion. It's also for those that realize freedom of speech isn't free, rather paid for with American blood. All those "peace at any price" utopians that believe it is free must vote for the politians their movie stars and singers tell them to.

Mike, you just did tell me :)

I agree with every sentence in your post. But I still think boycotting a non-political album (this thread started out talking about the DC's previous album, which expressed no politics) because you don't like the singers' politics is bad for free speech. It discourages people from speaking out. It seems exactly the same to me as boycotting your local bowling alley because you don't like what the owner said at some rally. If half the town boycotts the lanes and they close, do you think the next local person is going to feel comfortable stating her views in public? Listening and arguing seem to me to be the best responses to speech we don't like. Trying to punish people economically seems to me to be an undemocratic response. (Note the little "d" in that "undemocratic" :)

So, sure, people are totally within their rights to buy what they want for whatever reason they have. But boycotting a person's business because you don't like her political views seems to me to be bad for the free speech that you and I both love.

To Tony:
Real constructive comment fella :( !!
Now I know I am going out and buying the Dixie Chicks cd.

I read a lot of the comments....

Nobody changed anybody's mind about anything here.

It looks like quite a few of the posts are the same people with a different login/sig.

Judging by D. Weinberger's other posts, she/he is trying to bring out the worst in you.

It is interesting to see what some folks will write. None of us can change the course of the war. But D. Weinberger has certainly raised some cash for the DNC via the Dixie's.

By the way people. Michael Moore isn't a U.S. Citizen. It’s funny that you should care what he thinks of you and your country. Funny that you should care what anybody outside the U.S. thinks. They certainly don't care what we think.

The rest of the elitist ideals that are clearly demonstrated here would best be expressed in North Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Syria, China, Pakistan, Chad, Sudan, Somalia, Laos, Cambodia, and Kazakhstan, just to name a few off the top of my head. Make sure to exercise your rights as a U.S. Citizen as often and prominently as you possibly can. I am suggesting that you dress to fit in -- color your hair -- don't speak unless you know the language. Get a big sign and carry it proudly. Make sure to deride the local government as well as the central.

Don't tell me that you are exercising your rights. Tell them. Good luck getting safe water and food that you would recognize as such.

It’s so easy to spout your claptrap in the comfort of your western excess. You take for granted what millions would gladly degrade themselves and grovel for.

If you haven't traveled and lived in other countries you really don't know. You can't even pretend to know. It would be great if some of you would pool that DC concert money and spend some time off this continent.

Even then... once back in this country you wouldn't change because it's what you know. Your friends do it and you want to fit in. It's bloody peer pressure is what. It's chic to be liberal at college. It's cool to be part of the party lot at the clubs. It makes you feel all warm and fuzzy to support those poor artists. Heads up spotty they’re not poor and they are not, and likely would not, be your friends. Only in your fantasy world would that happen.

I've been on every continent except Antarctica. No matter where I have ever lived or visited, never once did I ever wonder what Natalie Maines or Michael Moore or the Brits or the French or the Somalis thought about me or my country. And every time I got home, it was so great to be home.

There is no universal wrong or right. Other peoples don't value what we value.

You and I will never know the thousands of back-room deals that are made between countries every day. What you see and read in the media is mostly meaningless. War happens after a huge amount of backslapping and brandy sipping in so many places it would make you wonder how we pay all of them. Look folks, if the U.N. ever does us more harm than good… it is history.

Truth is local. The farther you are away from a thing the less truth you can learn of it. TV and print media didn't change that and neither will the Internet.

Okay. This was rambling and I’m tired… I’m so glad to be home. Safe to exercise my rights without being killed for it; but I’m not stupid enough to spout this at the next “World Conference� as I try to sell some country’s government on $200M in whatever they’re willing to buy. Get a grip on yourselves! If you’re an artist, be that and leave the marketing and PR to folks that know that. Either way, I have no sympathy for any of you. Either the people who bought the music just to support the Dixie’s or the people who trashed what you already bought. Now you have less money and the Dixie’s have more. Guess who lost either way. Guess who won…. Oh right, it was George W. Next time it might be someone you really hate. Go live on another continent for a while before you vote next time.

Red states are avoiding the DC concert tour like the plague, they have had to change some dates due to, ahem, overwhelming demand in England and Europe, rescheduling until later. I doubt later will ever come. When I read that I went to Ticketmaster and tried to get tickets for their Atlanta show, which went on sale 4 days ago. I could still get floor seats, which normally sell out within minutes for a group that is popular enough to play a venue of that size. I guess the NPR crowd just isn't big enough to fill the big concert halls, they had better get used to coffeehouses with their new target audiences.

well yall are all insane! hellloooo we have the freedom of speech for a reason and its not so we can say what we have the FREEDOM to say what we want to and then get completely shunned for it!! there were pple in the U.S saying things worse than that about the president and i'm all for him and everything but i mean seriously get over it already!! geez grow up pple! yall should all check out song called Not Ready To Make Nice and while ur at it watch the video!

DIXIE CHICKS ARE AMAZING!!!

Okay now I've listened to the Dixie Chicks some...not my favorite band but they can sing. Now if you were to go up to your best friend you've had all your life and say something like, "Your stupid and should shut up," or "I can't believe we are from the same town, you suck!" Then yes...you'd expect said friend to get really pissed off! You've got the Right of Free Speech to do it, but because you are supposedly their friend there are consequences. The people boycotting the Dixie Chicks can do that because they have the freedom to do it. If you don't like a book you probable aren't gonna buy the sequal...same thing. You don't like the Dixie Chicks...Don't buy their music...you do like them...buy their music. Oh my god revelation. I personally don't like them, one, only a few of their songs I'll listen to and two, I don't agree with what they said. That doesn't mean I'm gonna boycott them I just don't buy a CD for one or two songs, now if they put every song of theirs I've ever liked on 1 CD than yea...I'd probable buy it. And agreeing with them doesn't mean you have to buy their CD's. If an actor makes a movie and you don't like the movie...you don't buy the movie...ooohhh.

After the Hurricane Katrina debacle, Tim McGraw publicly criticized President Bush for allowing the fiasco to get out of hand.

I think we all should organize large groups of concerned citizens and have them call the local country radio stations to have his music banned from the country airways. And while were putting that into place, we should send him tons of hate mail, threaten his life, harass his family and vandalize his property.

Eventually he will have to change his musical genre, and start making more music with Nellie!

If we’re going to do this to Tim, we better include Faith. She’s married to the guy. We certainly don’t want her music around to remind us of Tim!

Isn’t that the American way?

If Natalie Maines wants to come back into country, fine. If she wants to be successful, she needs to learn to keep her mouth shut. I know one thing, she is not going to have my money in her bank account of millions. If America wants to have a successful country and keep their freedom, we ALL need to support Bush!

By the way Michael Moore was born in Flint, Michigan so therefore he is a US citizen. The chicks new cd is great!

Dixie Chicks SUCK!!!!!

I’m so insanely proud to be an American and to live in an incredible country that gives its citizens the freedoms and privileges that we enjoy. So many other countries try to keep their citizens under control by limiting their freedoms, and closely monitoring their activities to prevent anyone from speaking out against the government. Our government sometimes monitors its citizens; not to keep anyone from expressing an opinion, but to make it safer for our people and to maintain the wonderful concept that this country is founded on which is documented in our Constitution:

AMENDMENT I: Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

All Americans should pay close attention to the last section of this amendment; “and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.�

Which basically means; if you have a problem with the government, you are allowed to publicly express your grievances (criticisms) in an attempt to redress (remedy) the situation. That certainly does not guarantee anything will change, but you are legally allowed to try (as long as you do it peaceably) without the fear of government reprisal. They cannot punish you in any way for publicly expressing a difference of opinion, as long as you don’t break any laws in the process.

Now here is a new word for all the boys and girls:

VIGILANTISM – taking the enforcement of law or moral code into your own hands, i.e. going beyond the boundaries of established law to carry out punishment upon an individual or group of individuals.

Vigilantism is illegal in this country, but had been used for many years in the old west where law enforcement was not well established in a particular region of the country. At that time it was not necessarily frowned upon, as it aided genuine law enforcement. The only difference between today’s vigilantism and that of the 1800’s was back then when a group of private citizens banded together to punish someone for breaking the law, there was normally an established law that had been broken!

Surprisingly enough, most of the documented cases of vigilantism took place in the southern states. Just a coincidence?

Something to think about.

Great post, Wes!

I’m so insanely proud to be an American and to live in an incredible country that gives its citizens the freedoms and privileges that we enjoy.

Thats why I can say the Dixie Chicks Suck, Wes thanks for the forward.

Its pretty simple, DC are entertainers. Not educators nor politicians. Listeners buy their album because it entertaines the vast majority. However, when they make commentary, on political issues we can just choose not to buy.

They can go into politics, if they want.

What is most offensive is that they do it oversea's. Honestly, thats pretty cowardly.

I just read today, they did it again. Saying something against patriotism. They have the right, and so does their audience to be offended and not buy.

Unfortunatly, entertainement has become political as of late. Which from a marketing point of view is stupid. Because, about 50% of the people will not like your material, that is pretty certain. Especially with music, because people may go to a movie they don't agree with (f-911) but they won't buy a CD from an entertainer they don't like.

Wish all you want, make all your political jabs, but the mass market is a big elephant. Not to mention the country base is mostly conservative. The DC's are dead.

I’ve been reading so many comments about how Natalie’s statement was cowardly or was even treasonous because it was made in the U.K.

If it had occurred in an adversarial nation then you could certainly consider it an improper place to be critical of our president, but Great Britain is by far our closest ally in this confrontation. It was effectively no different than speaking these statements on American soil. If anyone thinks otherwise, then you probably don't share many things with your closest friends!

Dear TxBwana-
I totally agree with everything you said. people are scared and need to get a grip. i love the album...it's amazing and says exactly what needs to be said.

The DC's spoke their mind, and whether you agree or not, free speech also protects the public's RESPONSE to their comments -- that includes fair and unfair comments as well as those that are completely reprehensible. In order to protect the rights of all those that want to share their disagreements with Bush and the war, you have to accept the fact that gives the smae right to those that don't want to hear it.

To PlainTalk79,

I agree with your comment, up to a point. Yes, the public has the right to respond and react to her statements, including fair and unfair comments; but do you truly believe that includes the reprehensible ones?

What if your neighborhood minister takes a vacation to London and is invited by a local church to speak a short sermon in front of a large British congregation that is being publicly broadcast. Knowing that his words will eventually reach the U.S, he decides to indicate the shame he feels that our country has so many un-Godly atheists. The story, upon reaching the U.S., enrages all the atheists in our country. They publicly proclaim that he should be exiled from the country because he refuses to acknowledge their beliefs. They send him hate mail, threaten his life, harass his family and vandalize his property. They organize large groups together to call the local radio station to have his weekly radio sermon cancelled. They picket his church and force his congregation to find another place of worship.

Do atheists have the right to their beliefs? Of course, this is America. You know, freedom of speech and freedom of religion; or lack there of. And yes, they can publicly criticize the minister, and his beliefs, until they are blue in the face; our Constitution gives them that right. But do they have right to organize together in an attempt to ruin the man’s career because they don’t appreciate him criticizing their lack of religion?

Some will wrongly state that there is no comparison to this story and what happen to the Chicks. But ask yourself, if this happened to your neighborhood minister would you feel the atheists were well within their Constitutional rights to retaliate in this manner because of public criticism? If not, then why on earth do you feel that our citizens are well within their Constitutional rights to do the same to the Chicks? Why does such a large section of the American public, who for the most part define themselves as patriotic and Christian, have to show such venomous hatred toward someone expressing a personal opinion? It doesn’t sound patriotic to me, and is certainly not very Christian! And I believe it goes well beyond reprehensible!

The Chicks can say anything they want to, because we have that right here in America. I just don't have to listen, because that's also a right we have here in America. With all the music on the market today, something like expressing your political viewpoint may help us decide to buy or not to buy a Chick's CD.

I was a Chick's fan, but now I just choose to spend my money elsewhere. If you didn't like The President before the Chicks went political, then I'm sure you love the Chicks now more than ever. That's your view. I have mine too.

Wes talks of venom. The most venomous people I have ever seen were either very "liberal" or very "conservative". As for his comments about Christians... There is no such thing as a venomous Christian. That is an oxymoron.

Here's the deal. Our government and constitution guarantees the right and priviledge to voice your opinion, whatever it may be. You can do this without being put in jail or persecuted by the government, as long as it's not hate speech. However, there is NO guarantee that there won't be personal reprocutions for the things that you say. That's the bottom line here. The Dixie Chicks said what they wanted to say, and it was fine for them to do that. However, as a result of what they "freely" said, they are now facing the effects of what they have said. Oh, and being a country music musician, I can tell you that if a radio station doesn't want to play your music, they won't and don't have to. Radio stations aren't the government. They are privately owned and sometimes publicly traded companies who can do whatever they want to, just as the Dixie Chicks did when they made the statements that they did. If Dixie Chicks fans don't like that their local country radio station isn't playing the chick's new singles, then those fans can exercise their personal freedoms and turn the dial. As long as the government isn't trying to censor the Dixie Chicks, then their personal freedom of speech has not been denied, but they still must pay whatever price comes with what they say. However, if the Dixie Chicks had access to top secret information about the war on terror that would compromise our success with it and the lives of our troops, and they had got on stage in London and told everyone about our Top Secret tactics, then the government COULD go after them, just like The New York Times is fixing to find out, the hard way.

To all the Chicks bashers on this board, you are an embarassment. Your mouths need to be washed out with soap.
If you don't care for their music, don't buy it.
Why are you here anyway? To spread hatred? I don't teach that to my children, I teach them to be tolerant of all people, even sad folks like you.
YOU ARE A GROUP OF SAD "PATRIOTIC" AMERICANS.
GOD BLESS YOU!

Forgive, sounds good.
Forget, I'm not really sure I could.
They say, Time heals everything,
But I'm still waiting.
I'm through with doubt, there's nothing left for me to figure out.
I've paid a price, and I'll keep paying it.
I'm not ready to make nice.
I'm not ready to back down.
I'm still mad as hell,
And I don't have time to go 'round and round and round.
I'm not ready to make nice.
I'm not ready to back down.
Cuz I'm mad as hell. I can't bring myself to do what it is you think I should!
I made my bed and I sleep like a baby. No regrets and I don't mind saying,
It's a sad, sad story when a mother would teach her
Daughter that she ought to hate a perfect stranger.
And how in the world could the words that I said
Send someone so over the edge
As to write me a letter saying I'd better
shut up and sing, or my life would be over!
I'm not ready to make nice,
I'm not ready to back down,
I'm still mad as hell and I don't have time to go 'round and round and round.
I'm not ready to make nice,
I'm not ready to back down,
Cuz I'm mad as hell.
I can't bring myself to do what it is you think I should!
(Possibly slightly paraphrased)
Now, who among us can say they have NEVER EVER felt that sentiment (feeling/anger/anguish
/frustration) at one time or another towards someone (something/some entity/some group/some World leader/some singer/etc/etc) must be cool to watch walk on water!
1) Just to clear up a misconception, our troops ARE NOT fighting for our right to our freedom of speech! We have had that right for a good while now!
2) Natalie Maines did not disgrace the United States, Texas or even Moms. And for those of yall that are Texan illiterate, "we" refers to those closest to you aka the Dixie Chicks. Just as when I say, WE are ashamed that the President of the United States PRETENDS that he is from Texas (New Haven, Connecticut, you can have him back!), I mean, my husband and I.
3) Nowhere in the Constitution does it say that I (nor my husband or Ms. Maine, the Dixie Chicks, or even you) HAVE to respect the President of the United States. Need I remind you people (sheeple, for those of you that deserve the title) of the total disrespect and disregard for a certain President Clinton???
By the way, Farewell, old (FAIRWEATHER) friends!

I have left serveral blogs on serveral different sites regarding "my opinion" regarding this very difficult topic. On one particular blog Ms. Maines is apparently "hosting" (she hired someone to tour with her to manage her own blog site) She was "joking" about and being "lite" about "cutting" which is a very serious teenage disorder these days. I personally am raising my teenage niece who has has a very difficult childhood before she came to live with me and she has been discovered "cutting". Natalie's comments were insensitive, crass and extremely ignorant. I am not here to question her freedom of speech, policitic views I could care less about what she thinks. But I agree with the soldier's comment above that even though she is hurtful, and ignorant...he will CONTINUE to fight in the service anywhere he has to go so SHE can continue to open her mouth and say what ever she feels like she needs to say - FREEDOM OF SPEECH, that fought for her. BTW I used to be a Dixie Chick Fan, but ignorance is not listed in the Freedom of Speech, or in our constitution and I will NOT tolerate anyone including "celebrities" just saying whatever comes out of your mouth without thinking especially if it could hurt a child...I do hope and pray that her children or any child she knows has the disorder of "cutting", she will regret her words at that time. AND appreciate the sadness and neglect. I will not be filling thier bank accounts anymore either. God Bless them and I wish them the best of luck. They will need it.

The Bolshevik Bitches are learning that if they have freedom of speech; so do we! And many of us "Publics" are telling those lousy cunts to go fuck themselves, as is OUR right! To hell with those whores, and may their lives be as miserable as is humanly possible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The last post confirmed all the things I thought might be true regarding the chick haters - "many of us "Publics" are telling those lousy cunts to go fuck themselves".

nough said. Go chicks!

It's not whether or not Maines should be entitled to say what she wants and when she wants to say it. It all about personal responsibility and exersizing a little restraint of that right when it affects those around you. How many people have lost income due to her insensitive spouting off? The Chicks entire support staff, managers, crew, the staffs at venues that sell t-shirts, beer, clean the venues, etc., etc. Of course, she won't give a damn because it's all about HER, isn't it? Oh... and her right to say whatever she wants whenever she wants to say it...

Free speech isn't free, you small minded psychos. The latest D.C. album went platinum after one month, so basically, your hate spewing is in vain, because regardless of what your political agenda is, the rest of the country is obviously with the D.C., soooo in summation, Go Chicks!!! You rock!!

I just heard the Dixie Chicks have to cancel concerts because lack of sales.
Thats what is so great about this country. You have the right to say what you want and the people have the right to do what they want. Like not buy your stinkin cds or concert tickets.
Its really ashame because I used to buy all your cds and I got to hi five Natallie in Baton Rouge. Thats before you trashed my country.

I’ve said it before, time and time again. If you’re a musician, the stage is where you go to perform and display your talents and showmanship – nothing more. I am a musician. I play bass guitar, and currently am sessioning for a national act.

The Dixie Chicks have reaped what they have sown.

Dear Natalie,

You don’t go on stage as a musician and tell the world how much you hate someone, even if it is the president of the United States. You have not only made an ass out of yourself, you have spawned a lot of hate that has come back not only to you, but to your band as well.

Freedom of speech goes both ways; of course, you can exercise your right to free speech, but don’t do it on the stage. Your fans didn’t put you there to talk bullshit about your political agenda, nor did they really want to hear your opinions about anything.

Your band isn’t just the other two Dixie Chicks. It’s your management, agents, staff, the people that run sound and set up your stage, linemen, cameramen, etc. The whole bunch have been essentially shunned by the world of country music and the rest of what fan base you had.

Your tour was essentially a failure in the red states. No wonder!

Can anyone say BLACKBALLED??

You also chose to attack your fellow musicians in the field; not good if you’re the believer in Karma that you claim to be.

Basically put, you have a big mouth and you need to shut it - shut it (but sing) and play. Your partners in crime onstage need to bring a bottle of cyanoacrylate with them (that’s super glue) for your oversized lips and glue them shut.

Your big trap kept on going even after your producers and manager told you to shut up, and your blind insolence and child-like behavior brought on sagging CD sales.

That ‘comeback’ CD you recently made isn’t doing so well. Next year, you’ll be lucky if it makes the cut-out section in Plan 9, or even as far as the Dollar Days stores.

Shut the hell up and play. Maybe, just maybe, you’ll get some fans back one day, long after your arch-enemy, President Bush, is dead and buried. If you don’t shut up and play, you’ll die an old, miserable hag, strung out on crack, depressed, where the world will no longer listen to you.

Do you hear that?

You do?

That’s the sound of shut the f---k up.

Fuck the Dixie chicken shits'......Texas should fire up ol' sparky in Huntsville three more times.
Nasty Nasty nasty.......

TEXAS DON'T NEED NO DIXIE CHICKENSHITS

Wow, so much wasted effort on such a small issue. The free market system will either reward or punish popular or unpopular actions thereby leveling consequences or giving glory to those that are or are not part of the mainstream. The DC are free people to say as they please. However, I think the implication in the speech was that we Texans did not like him (President Bush). It has become important to many to let the DC know that they are not representing them with that speech. I have spent literally 2 thousand dollars attending and helping my family attend DC concerts and buying everybody every new DC CD. But, my politics are different than those of the DC. So, I have a hard time even hearing their music without thinking about what was said.

I believe we let our leaders lead and when the election comes around we do our talking in the voting booth. United we stand - divided we fall. But, cut the DC's some slack. They are getting their feedback through their bank account. You don't need to tell them anything else. Don't lower yourselves (on either side) to profane abuse. That doesn't resolve anything. (It might reveal a little about who you are as a person, however). I can't believe I spent this much time reading this site and posting this comment. But, I too can be sucked into the discussion. Go be good at whatever you do. Be a great Dad or Mom. Be a great boy friend or girl friend. Be a great teacher or doctor or lawyer or clerk or whatever it is you do. Spend your time productively and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Enjoy the music and artists you like and leave the ones that you don't like to be enjoyed by others. Life's too short to be spending it spewing hate towards others. Love others as you love yourself.

Quoted from API news: In March of 2003, Natalie Maines told a London concert audience; "Just so you know, we're ashamed the President of the United States is from Texas." After the concert she was asked to explain her statement; "We've been overseas for several weeks and have been reading and following the news accounts of our governments' position. The anti-American sentiment that has unfolded here [Great Britain] is astounding. While we support our troops, there is nothing more frightening than the notion of going to war with Iraq and the prospect of all the innocent lives that will be lost."

So Natalie spoke out against the prospect of war and loss of life; how dare she do such a thing! And to think she had the nerve to do so in Great Britain, our closet friends and allies since before we were born. My God that is unthinkable; she needs to be exiled from the country! The mere fact the she was in an arena filled with anti-American anti-Bush protestors could not have possibly affected her decision before she made such a hideous comment. She must be punished severely for insulting our president, our country and our troops! How can anyone be supportive of our American troops by showing such concern for their lives? That’s the most unpatriotic and treasonous thing she could have done. The firing squad is too good for her, she needs to be severely tortured first!!!

Yes, free speech was their right. However, an ad agency seeking business with PETA would not go into the boardroom with fur coats and baby seal hats, even if they believed they should exercise their right to wear animal pelts. It is common sense.

They had to choose between their convictions and their careers, and they chose. I only hope they made this sacrifice on purpose, and not because they wanted to impress some Europeans by letting them know they weren't with the "bad-Americans."

Their sales will not last. Most people that support them now do it for political reasons and will not continue to do so. You can only buy CDs you won't listen to for so long, and soon they will be an after-thought.

Just watched a Public TV concert of the Dixie chicks from 2002. Fantastic instrumentals I was very impressed - enough so to do a search to see what I could find out about them when I found this and read every comment (yes I do readily inflict pain on myself). I have a slight recollection of this event and felt at the time that they screwed up.
My main thought though is "at the time" would she have made the same comment in the US - specifically Texas? I kind of doubt it, searching the web I did not find any political speak other than complaints of how the comment impacted their sales and concerts.
IMHO this devalues the comment from a true freedom of speach. In the 60's Fonda talked out about the war but she did not stop because of unfavorable press, she continued on. Natelie stopped and as noted further back in a post regarding an interview in New Zealand tried to blow it off as "off the cuff".
I kind of wonder if another posters comments regarding the switch to the new audience isn't in truth, they lost the majority of the base so go for the new venue and grow there for a while. Not as lucritive but it does put food on the table and for the talent of the band and the other two gals - awesome banjo and fiddle playing. I don't care much for Natelies voice but that is my opinion only - I would buy their instrumentals.
As for the comment effecting their livelyhood and "Freedom of speech" should not impact a person eating - I don't think they starved, they just didn't continue to get rich.
And face it folks your not in a utopia. Just as most folks won't support a president (Bush or Clinton) for thier views - remember freedom of speech... so does everyone have that same right with their votes ($$$).
Everyone pays for what they say or portray whether it be that new job or the sale of a product - simple as that and it will never change. As long as there is a free market and a multitude of others viaing for your support - willing to say what you want to hear and then smiling all the way to the bank, it will continue to be that way.
It is also apparent in the comments above - rather than a discussion and debate of the issue many will strike out with cruel name calling, bigotry and slander in defense of their opinion and disrespect for anothers. I believe that is called hypocroscy (?sp).

The world is as volitale as the people in it. It will never be peaceful, we can't keep our kids from shooting up schools, having fights as events or bullying each other. How do you think you'll keep whole countries from waging war.
As for the war in Afghanistan I think it was a necessary action and the people (especially women and kids) are better for it. I am speaking from on the ground observation (- you can to volunteer to teach or provide humanitarian aid and see for yourself). I'm not sure that it couldn't have been done better and it could have been done much worst.
I was in Kabul during the mid-90's, oppressive doesn't even come close to what I experienced. I don't think my translator related a single phrase that I spoke as it most likely would have bumped me out of the country. Did you know that they refused the commercial satellite companies from transmitting in their country. Other than short wave radio there was no means of getting outside information or entertainment. The place was run down, restrictive on travel and limited all actvities. Only boys were allowed to school and only in studies of the Koran (and a very narrow perspective of the content).
On my return two years ago (2004) it was remarkable. Kids everywhere, people smiling, girls going to school, teachings of science, math, world cultures - now it was limited due to the lack of funds (want to do some good - collect and send school supplies (not books unless requested) but book bags paper, pencils, pens, chalk, rulers, protractors, etc).
Markets are springing up everywhere - they were building a shopping mall. It was a huge improved difference.
Now don;t get me wrong it is very percarious, the governement is rife with tribalism and old hurts. For the US and the UN to move out would pull the legs right out. (Forgive the anology) Its like the catholic Nun with the ruler watching to be sure they play nice, leave the room and havoc errupts.

As for Iraq well not sure we should have gone there or if we should have just carpet bombed the place. I believe Sadam and his sons were evil but they were just another order of nuns making sure everyone else played nice while they ran amuck. Was it good to get them out of there - Yes I think so, but we should have closed the borders and held the stick high until everything was back in order, along with keeping the local military in place to maintain the peace.

Okay so thats enough - I support the president even though we don't see eye to eye, I'll support the next president and still have differences. BUT I won't stand around bitching and complaining or diss'ing others - I'll find out what I can do to make a difference and go do it.

Freedom of speech should include conviction and action - so make it of value also and do something to improve the world - even if its painting a fence or picking up trash. As a matter of fact instead of buying music with the intent of support why not apply the money to a book or tool and inscribe it with a supportive comment and donate it to someone who needs it. Then instead of the Dixie chicks getting a dollar from that $50 - a person can learn, work or repair thier home.

Does anyone know if the Dixie Chicks have done anything for those Afgan or Iraq people that they feel have been wronged, for that matter the US gulf coast?? Might add a bit of credibility to their stance.

$0.02 here - a difference if it motivates someone.

anyothername-

BEAUTIFULLY SAID. I love hearing the point of view of someone who has actually experienced events, and not just read about them on CNN.

You made a great point about helping people- great comment.

Natalie Maines to the Presisdent: You're a Dumb F**k!


I voted for Bush twice, thrice if he could run again, and I still consider it the most appropriate expression Natalie has articulated since her 2003 comment!

We don't owe Bush unfaltering reverence; he was elected to the office so he works for us. Why on earth should we blindly accept everything he speaks as dogma?

I fully support him as our leader, but I will never place him on a pedestal. We own it to our American heritage to keep the government at our level, and never allow it superiority over any of its citizens.

Amen!

That’s just the point no one has censored the dixie chicks. People just excised their right of free speech to not buy tickets, CDs and to tell radio stations they will not listen if they played the chicks. Before their comments I could listen to their music and enjoyed it, but after the hate speech I can’t stand them anymore.

It amazes me that the hate the spills out from some of the people over what the Dixie Chicks had to say. Personally i think that those who spouts hate at the DC are really over the top as the remarks by the DC was over the top. I will not second guess what the DC had to say but it amazes me how the machinery of the far right is so hateful and "unchristinan-like".
Let us not confuse political activism with hate folks...i call a spade a spade and hate is the reason why the human race is in such a poor state. All the religions speak against it yet nobody listens. I have very little hope for the hate in America. Hate is why we have wars and events like September 11. When will we learn from the past? Reacting is easy.

It amazes me that the hate the spills out from some of the people over what the Dixie Chicks had to say. Personally i think that those who spouts hate at the DC are really over the top as the remarks by the DC was over the top. I will not second guess what the DC had to say but it amazes me how the machinery of the far right is so hateful and "unchristinan-like".
Let us not confuse political activism with hate folks...i call a spade a spade and hate is the reason why the human race is in such a poor state. All the religions speak against it yet nobody listens. I have very little hope for the hate in America. Hate is why we have wars and events like September 11. When will we learn from the past? Reacting is easy.

I just saw "Shut Up & Sing" last night and today I bought my first "Country" album. Plus, the themes are more sophisticated than any CW album I have encountered. I grew up rural, no sidewalks, plenty of livestock, horses, did the whole 4H thing for years and it was funny to see the biggest cowboys were from 20 miles away living on pavement, wearing western clothes. Kinda strange. Posers, right?

The psychology of hate is worth looking at. Lynch-mob mentality, is that an American invention? Actually, no. It was around long before there was an America. lynch-mob mentality is what killed Jesus, right? How odd that so many of those judging harshly and joining the anti-DC feeding frenzy consider themselves righteous. That is coming full circle when the 21st century followers of a religious faith proudly display the same aweful behavior that crucified their link to God. That is how crazy this planet is. That such hipocracy could go unnoticed by those caught up in it is amazing. My Southern brothers and sisters, those in our Bible Belt, how about more forgiveness, compassion, love and less lynch-mob mentality? Did I miss the memo from God that said it is good to run over CDs with tractors, threaten to kill musicians who don't share your love of a man from Maine who moved to Texas and later became president? Come on.....show some love for your fellow man and woman. Life is short, it is hard and death comes sooner than most would like. I say those with the biggest hearts should make the first move and show some forgiveness or at least bury the hachet. It honors America to show compassion, diplomacy, forgiveness and understanding. I say we keep trying.

Mike

Fuck the Dixie Chicks! Rename them the Dixie Dicks!

If the highest ranking military general wears 4 stars.....then the Chicks wear FIVE. They're what America could be, and every band should be. I'll continue to buy their CD's and help support both the band, and Conservation International. We love you Chicks.

To The Recording Academy,

When I was young, I watched the Academy Awards and Grammy Awards. I thought the awards were a time when the best were recognized for doing the best among their peers. It was acknowledgment for hard work and dedication to both art and craft. But, last night we saw that dedication to politics is what pays. Recognition of the best no longer applies to the members of The Recording Academy. I'm deeply disappointed.

I had no favorites going in. I'm not disappointed that one person won over another. I'm disappointed that The Recording Academy members took the obvious political route. Where is the high road? Where is the leadership within The Recording Academy? You had such a great opportunity to let music unite us; as it has so often in the past.

I am disconcerted by the political statement. I wish there was at least one group of individuals willing to take the higher road and remain apolitical.

Chicks: five Grammys. Hmmmm. Seems the south is still lousing to the north. And how about that George guy. He's still their #1 despatcher of wisdom. Why hell, he even stayed home to tend to his barbecue sauce and beer while others, like Kerry and McCain, went to war zones for their beer and b.s.. But George is Texas; Chicks should have remembered the dumb note. George is everthing the South wants for their presidential character; ineptitude, dumb-down, and all hat an no cattle. I can't wait to see the next Pres they put up for election. Say, how about one of those Lubbock Lights researchers?

Those who voted for the Dixie Chicks are a bunch of hypocrites since these same folks who have anti-war sentiments and extol the virtues of so-called 'freedom/protest' speech also voted for artists that denigrate women, glamorize sex, violence etc.--supposedly these are 'avant garde' ideals too! In reality, the vote is a true reflection of the industry's values. In the end, what really matters is the bottom line ($$$). And the bottom line is that country music fans won't buy Dixie Chicks no more! Good luck and goodbye Ditzie Chicks :)

Back to the War on Terrorism. Dixie Chicks you rock. Good for you for excercising your fundamental right "Freedom of Speech". I am from Canada, but the U.S. citizens would not have all of the freedoms they enjoy today, if people who had gone before them, hadn't spoken up and stood for something. Stand proud as you should. I find it ironic that you gals were chastized by some many other fellow American's, when even the troops that they so proudly support, think they should come home. The latest headlines from the show 60 Minutes, read as follows: "To many in America's armed forces, these men and women are doing the unthinkable: Active-duty soldiers, sailors and Marines speaking out against the ongoing conflict in Iraq. They've signed on to what's called "An Appeal for Redress" - and they say it's time for U.S. troops to come home"

Wow, makes you think. You just had to confidence to say, what the majority of the troops think. Cudo's to you Dixie Chicks. Rock on.....continue using your talents.

Glenn
February 26 9:15 PM

the dixie chicks are terrorists... they bash our president for going into a country filled with diseased animals that are ruining our planet. if the dixie whores are so concerned about living in texas with the president, why dont they move their sell-out asses to the middle east where they belong.

DIXIE CHICKS ARE LOSERS. DIXIE CHICKS ARE TERRORISTS. DIXIE CHICKS ARE SELL-OUTS TO THEIR COUNTRY. DIXIE CHICKS ARE MUSLIMS. DIXIE CHUCKS SUCK MULE PUS. DIXIE CHICKS SHOULD BE HANGED ON NATIONAL TV FOR PUTTING DOWN THEIR PRESIDENT AND COUNTRY. DIXIE CHICKS SHOULD BE GANG RAPED BY THE MUSLIM TERRORISTS THEY SUPPORT. DIXIE CHICKS CANT EVEN SING. BOYCOTT THE DIXIE CHICKS!!!

I happen to fundamentally agree with most of the negative post showing contempt for the actions of the Dixie Chicks, until I read comments like the last post. I may not agree with Natalie’s comments, but I do understand we are only human; unlike the last poster.

Have you ever noticed how a large majority of people who show such virulent anger toward the Dixie Chicks have resorted to ridiculous insults and name calling to effectively express themselves. It seems that the better part of DC hatred is generated from the shallow minds of severely psychotic individuals, as this last poster successfully demonstrates. I don’t actually know how to respond to the last post and his/her/its truly revolting example of the lowest form of life to survive on this planet. I will give him/her/it credit, as he/she/it definitely succeeded in bringing me down to his/her/its level. I can only hope to God that he/she/it was not an American citizen! God help us all!

His/her/its thought provoking expressions were highly inconsequential and totally irrelevant to the discussion in question. The essentially incoherent inferences that he/she/it feebly attempted to convey, pertaining to the plight of the Chicks, were remarkably unproductive. Does he/she/it actually think that his/her/its pubescent inspirations will effectively assist others who scrutinize this forum into a better understanding of a particular side of this controversial issue? If anything, he/she/it may unwittingly convince those who haven’t yet taken a firm stance against the Chick’s to a better understanding of the mindset of individuals who are showing such hatred, and question an association with that kind of repulsive mentality!

He/she/it reminds me of a backwoods redneck driving down the road shooting at traffic signs with his shotgun; it make him feel so good, and he’s extremely proud of his efforts, but it doesn’t prove to be much of an aid to other drivers.

It was inevitable for the dixie chicks to learn that the country music fan base is full of a bunch of simple minded evil rednecks. I believe the controversy you created started a movement through the country against this administration.
You ladies are true "American Heroes"! I thank you deeply for saving our nation from fascism.
Your also extremly talented and very easy on the eyes.

bob
long island ny

Reply to: Posted by: Dixie Losers Suck
(you can see he never finished 3rd. grade)

You poor Ignorant redneck! Why don't you just go back to your NASCAR race, (and most Ignorant rednecks don't know what NASCAR stands for) but yet consider themselves fans! and have another beer and wait for your welfare check to come in the mail, before they shut off your internet access AGAIN and before Rent-A-Center repossesses half your house, ya poor Ignorant redneck!

Im so happy to see that Ignorant rednecks like you get so PISSED OFF at intelligent individuals like the Dixie Chicks (it must suck to be you!)

And I'm sure if you read this reply, it will piss you off, because you and the rest of the people who read this post know you are just an Ignorant redneck! So lets see if you can move up to the level of a 4th grader next time (if you can find this page again)

America isn't easy. America is advanced citizenship. You've gotta want it bad, 'cause it's gonna put up a fight. It's gonna say, "You want free speech? Let's see you acknowledge a man whose words make your blood boil, who's standing center stage and advocating at the top of his lungs that which you would spend a lifetime opposing at the top of yours.
Those of you who spew hate about what Ms. Maines said should bear that in mind.

One more thing:

"The President is merely the most important among a large number of public servants. He should be supported or opposed exactly to the degree which is warranted by his good conduct or bad conduct, his efficiency or inefficiency in rendering loyal, able, and disinterested service to the Nation as a whole. Therefore it is absolutely necessary that there should be full liberty to tell the truth about his acts, and this means that it is exactly necessary to blame him when he does wrong as to praise him when he does right. Any other attitude in an American citizen is both base and servile. To announce that there must be no criticism of the President, or that we are to stand by the President, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable to the American public. Nothing but the truth should be spoken about him or any one else. But it is even more important to tell the truth, pleasant or unpleasant, about him than about any one else."

"Teddy Roosevelt in the Kansas City Star", 149
May 7, 1918

I have never been a Dixi Chixs fan, and well continue not to be. However I just got done watching (Shut and Sing), and have found some respect for this group. Anyone who can jeperdize so much and not even think twice about appologizing for something that needs NO appologe; has earned my respect. I hope the Dixi Chix's still find sucess.

The right too freedem of speech is not too be questioned.

I have never questioned the Dixie Chick's right to disagree with the war, or with President Bush. Nor is their right to express their disagreement publically in dispute. Even President Bush defended their right to express themselves. What I don't understand is how so many people believe it was the comment itself, and not the location, that caused the controversy. The simple fact is that Natalie said what she did to get a reaction in a foreign crowd. She didn't say anything about the war..she made a personal attack on the leader of her country because she felt that it would get her some applause. If she had said it to the American press or at a concert here in the states, it wouldn't have caused half the problem. And now it is years later, and I still won't listen to Chick's music. If I am listening to a radio station and one of their songs come on, I still turn the dial. I know that my actions will make no real difference to the band in the long run, I just choose not to support them in any way.

Something for those "anti-war, anti-Bush" people to think about:
Do you think 9/11 would have happened if Clinton would not have been president. Do you think that the mockery he made of our highest political office around the globe made no difference in the terrorist's thinking that we would have no action to take in retaliation? Do you believe that every time Clinton backed down from a fight, pulled the troops back, and ignored the constant defiance of Sadaam and those like him had no effect on the taliban deciding that we looked like easy pickings? While I hate the fact that our soldiers are dying, and I grieve for those loved ones who are still gone, and the ones who will never come home, I am gratefull to at least have a president who will not back down. President Bush is not perfect, and I don't agree with everything he does. But I do believe that he has shown this country to be strong, proud, and willing to fight for what we believe in again. Isolationism does not work, we found that out with Pearl Harbor a long time ago.

God Bless our Troops, and may they all soon be home again.

Reply to Anonymous:

Do you even know what Natalie Maines said that night in England?

You state "She didn't say anything about the war..she made a personal attack on the leader of her country because she felt that it would get her some applause." That's just plain false, the comment was ALL about the war.

Natalie said: "Just so you know, we’re on the good side with y’all. We do not want this war, this violence, and we’re ashamed that the President of the United States is from Texas."

Foreign soil was maybe not the best place to make her thoughts known, but it was during the period just before we invaded and that's where she was at the time. I think she would have said it no matter where she was.

Please don't post things when you don't know all the facts. She did say this about the war and was not just making a personal attack on Bush.

I can't belive that you seriously think Clinton's behavior with an intern would embolden terrorists. Is that what your comment meant? If that's all it took then this country is in for a lot more trouble because we're all bumbling idiots at times.

I LOVE the Dixie Chicks, always have and always will. I never knew the situation very well, so i never said my peice, but the other day i watched their special on Starz "shut up and sing" and it made me that much more devoted to them. I agree that the comment should have had some thought, which it didnt, and being on foreign soil was another strike, but after watching the documentary, i believe that the chicks paid for what they did. They overcame the obstacles and apologized, but are still ridiculed and hated. They are strong women and some funny ass bitches!! They are also the ONLY recording artists to sell as many CD's with NO radio help at all! I dont support what they say because im not knowledgeable on the subject of war, but i do support them because thats what a true fan is isnt it? I also think that it was unfair for country music to turn thier back on them that quickly. That must have hurt bad.

p.s. i recommend the movie to anyone who thinks they have an opinion about the situation.:) thanks!

I am a Republican and support Bush and the troops. However, it makes me ashamed that so many right wingers choose to focus all their energy on trying to abliterate the Dixie Chicks career and threatening these poor girls and their familys. It's just sick man! To all you supposed Christians and right wingers with your ugly hearts, your the reason why Nataile Maines said what she said. Find a worth while cause and make a difference, show people that Republicans are compassionate and intelligent people. Watch their documentary Shut Up and Sing and recognize they are only human. Get over it people. Stand up and make a difference in a positive way.