Novemember,
2006
I
recently had the opportunity to see the Dixie Chicks in person
at one of the VH1 Storytellers events where they talked about
the inspiration behind certain songs and then performed them.
I was blown away by the deep emotions they shared that evening,
especially when singing “I’m Not Ready to Make
Nice.” I don’t think there was a single person
in the room who didn’t feel the pain and strength coming
out of their voices.
As
many of you know, the group came under a ton of criticism
two years ago for expressing their opinions of President Bush.
Despite anyone’s disagreement behind what was said,
I think it’s horrible the way many Americans and the
people of country music turned their backs on such a talented
band. After all, wasn’t our country founded on the principles
of free speech?
I’m
no crazy feminist here, but it certainly makes me wonder if
the same response would have ensued if a man had been the
one behind those words. In fact, I can’t even count
how many concerts I’ve been to of major male rock stars
who have equivocally said the same thing. Yet, you don’t
see their fans smashing their CDs in public and sending them
death threats.
Now,
here we have one of the most successful and gifted female
bands of all time being shunned by their once loyal fans and
even fearing for their lives. Tell me how a few negative words
about a less than memorable president can warrant such hatred?
You’d like to think people were mature enough to peacefully
agree to disagree. Unfortunately, as we all know, that is
rarely the case.
Though
the Dixie Chicks understandably chose to stay out of the spotlight
for a while, I’m relieved to see that they are making
a comeback. However, they, themselves, acknowledge that it
will be a challenge, considering that they are starting again
with only half of their original fan base. I just hope they
will be able to continue pursuing their love of music without
having to worry whether some narrow-minded, hateful person
will go too far.
Peace
be with all of us,
Emily-Fortune Feimster
For
anyone interested in checking out my much lighter overview
of the evening, here is the item online:
http://webcenters.netscape.compuserve.com/celebrity/celebgossip.jsp?feature=ce_cel_09252006
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