Dixie Chicks Win Big At Grammy Awards

Congratulations to the Dixie Chicks for their recognition at this years Grammy Awards. I don’t usually watch the Grammy’s but was glad to hear about the Dixie Chicks winning big.

This should send a message to those who say that artists should just keep quiet about issues of politics, war, etc. The critics say that musicians who speak out on important issues, risk ruining their careers. They say that musicians of today should concentrate on making empty spineless music that the masses can dance to. I have always believed that this view was nonsense.

The fact is, artists throughout history (painters, poets, musicians) have always reflected the social/political issues of their societies through their work. This is why archaeologists find so much insight about societies of the past from the work left behind by the artists in those populations. Artists are often catalysts for social and political action. This is also why artists were often sought out first & killed or imprisoned when societies were invaded by rivals. Artists are some of the most dangerous people in a society (for those in power). Artists- especially musicians- are in a position to make a difference. Unfortunately there are not enough artists out there today who are brave enough to take on this responsibility & carry this weight on their backs. But thankfully we at least have the Dixie Chicks (and a handful of others).

I am glad Bob Dylan, John Lennon, Marvin Gaye, Crosby Stills & Nash, Curtis Mayfield, Gil Scott-Heron, Nina Simone, Bob Marley & others never listened to these kinds of critics. These musicians were not afraid to make music that expressed their views about politics… they were concerned with making music that was from the heart, unlike a lot of artists today who are more concerned with chasing the “bling” and compromising their integrity.


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