The Chicks Recall ‘the Incident’ and Compare Bush to Trump in ‘Taking the Long Way’ 20th Anniversary Shows: Concert Review

Over two decades after its release, The Chicks are commemorating the 20th anniversary of their landmark album, Taking the Long Way, through a uniquely intimate concert series. This tour is distinguished not only by a full live performance of the album but also by the trio’s in-depth commentary and reflections on the turbulent era that shaped the record.

The 2006 album, which earned the band an impressive five Grammy Awards including album, record, and song of the year, emerged amid significant controversy. Central to this was lead singer Natalie Maines’s outspoken criticism of then-President George W. Bush, an event that has since been euphemistically referenced by the group as "the incident." The fallout from these remarks profoundly influenced the band’s artistic direction and public reception.

Unlike their typical concert approach, where Maines is sparing with words, this anniversary tour embraces a Storytellers-style format. For much of the first portion of the shows, the members—Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer—performed Taking the Long Way in its entirety while interspersing songs with personal anecdotes, insights into the album’s production, and rarely seen documentary footage. This blend of storytelling and performance crafted a docu-concert experience that deepened audience understanding of the album’s genesis.

The timing of the tour coincided with the politically charged atmosphere surrounding the 2026 midterm elections, adding contemporary resonance to their reflections. Maines drew parallels between the political climates of 2003 and today, expressing a shift in perspective about past political figures and current leadership. The band’s engagement with topical issues was further underscored during performances where they infused lyrics with references to current economic and political challenges.

Fans witnessed a faithful rendition of the album in its original track order, preserving the narrative arc and emotional pacing envisioned by the band. Early in the set, the defiant anthem "Not Ready to Make Nice" served as a powerful emotional centerpiece, delivering a cathartic moment that set the tone for the rest of the evening. Subsequent hits and fan favorites filled the latter part of the concerts, balancing nostalgia with the energy characteristic of The Chicks’ live performances.

An intriguing aspect of the tour was the revival of deep cuts that have rarely, if ever, been performed live. Several tracks from Taking the Long Way had not been played on stage for over a decade, and some appeared live for the very first time. This exploration of lesser-known material offered longtime fans a fresh perspective on the album’s depth and the band’s creative range.

The album itself has withstood the test of time, not solely as a political statement but as a musically robust collection. While some Grammy-winning records fade in relevance, Taking the Long Way maintains its stature through a blend of personal storytelling and musical craftsmanship. The collaboration with producer Rick Rubin and co-writer Dan Wilson resulted in songs that navigate complex emotions from anger and grief to hope and resilience.

Throughout the performances, The Chicks candidly addressed the backstory of key songs, including the creation of "Not Ready to Make Nice," which emerged as a direct response to the backlash they faced. Other tracks subtly reference their alienation from the country music industry and personal challenges, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of the album.

Their commentary also revealed family dynamics and personal struggles during the album’s creation period, such as debates over in vitro fertilization, emphasizing the human experiences behind the music. This transparency added layers of relatability and authenticity to the narrative presented during the shows.

Despite their estrangement from mainstream country circles following the 2003 controversy, The Chicks still attracted a crowd that included many traditional country fans, underlining the enduring connection they maintain with their original audience. The tour’s success in blending reflection, political discourse, and musical celebration highlights The Chicks’ ongoing relevance and resilience in the evolving music landscape.

Details remain limited regarding certain aspects of the tour’s broader scope, but the documented shows at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood encapsulate the spirit and significance of this milestone. As The Chicks revisit Taking the Long Way, they not only honor an album but also reaffirm their identity as artists unafraid to confront controversy and evolve through it.