The Chicks Detroit Opener: All The Notable Moments

Emma James 10/01/2026

The Chicks are back, and they’re bringing the history with them. Declaring themselves “nervous and excited,” the trio kicked off their Taking The Long Way 20th Anniversary Tour on Wednesday night (September 30) at Detroit’s Fox Theatre, proving that some memories, no matter how bumpy the journey, are ultimately triumphant.

The anniversary celebration offered more than just great music; it was a journey through the complex, unforgettable history of the band. At the heart of that history lies a moment that still sparks conversation: the infamous comment made by Natalie Maines regarding President George W. Bush on March 10, 2003. In the lead-up to the Iraq War, Maines told a London audience that they were ashamed the president was from Texas. The remark immediately ignited a firestorm—leading to radio backlistings, public protests, record burnings, and intense feuds with other artists, most notably Toby Keith.

While the incident caused significant pain and controversy at the time, it served as a pivotal moment that shaped the Chicks’ trajectory. This volatile period ultimately fueled the creation of their seventh studio album, Taking the Long Way, in 2006. This album was a masterclass in defiance and artistry, reaching the pinnacle of success with a No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 and Top Country Albums charts, earning double-platinum certification and five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Best Country Album.

The sound of that defiance was perfectly encapsulated in the single “Not Ready to Make Nice,” which swept the awards, taking home record of the year and song of the year.

Now, the 20th Anniversary Tour offers a chance to reflect on that history with a newfound sense of peace. For this 16-date run, the band—Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer—will perform the entire 14-song sequence of Dixie Chicks: Shut Up and Sing>. It’s a deeply cathartic experience, taking fans down memory lane through moments that defined their journey.

Paired with forty minutes of greatest hits, the performance is a sublime trip through not-always-pleasant memories, culminating in a triumphant and deeply memorable display of their enduring talent. It’s a reminder that even the most challenging chapters of a career can become the most celebrated parts of the story.