The Chicks: Band Profile & 2026 Anniversary Tour

The Chicks—formerly the Dixie Chicks—are an American country music trio from Dallas, Texas. The band is currently composed of lead vocalist Natalie Maines and multi-instrumentalists Martie Maguire (fiddle, mandolin) and Emily Strayer (banjo, dobro). Known for blending country, bluegrass, folk, and pop, they have earned multiple Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for their 2006 release Taking the Long Way Source 1.

Career Highlights and Milestones

The group rose to fame in the late 1990s with chart-topping hits like “Wide Open Spaces” and “Cowboy Take Me Away.” In 2003, the band faced major backlash after publicly criticizing the Iraq War and President George W. Bush, resulting in radio bans and fan protests. Their 2006 comeback album, Taking the Long Way, addressed the controversy and won five Grammys. After a 14-year gap, they returned with Gaslighter in 2020 and officially rebranded to The Chicks that June Source 1.

2026 “Taking the Long Way” 20th Anniversary Tour

To mark the 20th anniversary of their Grammy-winning album, The Chicks announced the “This Is Our Lives” theater tour. The 16-date run across 10 U.S. cities begins in Detroit, Michigan, in fall 2026. The intimate shows celebrate the record that defined their post-controversy era Source 4.

Activism and Public Voice

Beyond music, The Chicks use social media to advocate for democracy, human rights, and unity, emphasizing that decency should transcend political divisions Source 5.

FAQ

When did The Chicks change their name from Dixie Chicks?
They officially rebranded in June 2020.

What is the 2026 tour celebrating?
The 20th anniversary of Taking the Long Way.

How many shows are planned?
16 dates across 10 U.S. cities.

Where can fans buy tickets?
Through thechicks.com and authorized partners.

Why was Taking the Long Way significant?
It was their first post-controversy album and won five Grammys, including Album of the Year.

Do The Chicks still perform together?
Yes, Maines, Maguire, and Strayer continue to record and tour.