Shut Up & Sing

film by Kopple and Peck [2006]

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July 22, 2026

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The film Shut Up & Sing (2006) is a documentary directed by Barbara Kopple that chronicles the controversy surrounding the American country music group, the Dixie Chicks (now known as The Chicks). The controversy began in March 2003 when lead singer Natalie Maines expressed shame that then-U.S. President George W. Bush was from her home state of Texas, during a concert in London. This statement led to widespread criticism, the banning of their music from many country radio stations, and even death threats. The documentary offers an intimate look at the group's experiences in the aftermath of Maines's remarks.123

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Barbara Kopple
Other films
In 2006 Kopple released Shut Up & Sing, a behind-the-scenes look at the country music band the Dixie Chicks (now known as the Chicks) as they write and record their album Taking the Long Way (2006). The film’s portrait came at a key point in the band’s career, three…
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In 2006 Kopple released Shut Up & Sing, a behind-the-scenes look at the country music band the Dixie Chicks (now known as the Chicks) as they write and record their album Taking the Long Way (2006). The film’s portrait came at a key point in the band’s career, three…
Read More