The Dixie Chicks ~ Top of the World Live

The Dixie Chicks - Top of the World Live
June - August 2003 Multiple Venues across the World
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"The Dixie Chicks @ the Top of the World"
by R. Dale Roth 2024-08-11

The history of most bands can be traced through their discography, but with the Dixie Chicks, their controversies tell an equally compelling story. There was the uproar over "Goodbye Earl," a song about taking out a wife-beating husband, followed by their public spat with Toby Keith over his patriotic anthem "Courtesy of the Red, White and Blue." Then came their long legal battle with Sony over royalties—a fight they ultimately won. During the Iraq War, frontwoman Natalie Maines sparked outrage across much of middle America by declaring she was "ashamed" that President George W. Bush hailed from their home state of Texas.

"An Evening With the Dixie Chicks" was recorded in August of that year, so it doesn't touch on the controversy surrounding Operation Desert Storm. However, its release coincided with the height of the backlash, just as their music was being banned from radio stations and even burned by critics.

Natalie Maines shines as a showwoman, headbanging along to the bluegrass frenzy of "White Trash Wedding" and playfully chiding the audience for cheering during her somber explanation of the inspiration behind "Godspeed." The crowd erupts in applause whenever the serene Martie Maguire draws her bow across the fiddle, and while the new material is well-received, it's the older hits in the encore that truly electrify the audience.

In the end, "An Evening With the Dixie Chicks" serves as both a snapshot of the band at a pivotal moment in their career and a reminder of their resilience in the face of adversity. Despite the controversies and backlash, the Dixie Chicks remained unapologetically true to themselves, delivering performances that resonated with authenticity and defiance. This live album not only captures the raw energy of their music but also stands as a testament to their enduring bond with their fans, who, despite the storms, stayed cheering and singing along, proving that their spirit was far from broken.

Song by Song:

1. "Goodbye Earl": The show kicks off with "Goodbye Earl," a track known for its dark humor and bold narrative. The song tells the tale of two friends who take justice into their own hands by ridding the world of an abusive husband. Live, it’s a crowd-pleaser, with the audience enthusiastically joining in on the chorus. The Dixie Chicks' playful yet pointed delivery sets the tone for the evening, showing that they’re unafraid to tackle heavy themes with a wink and a smile.

2. "Some Days You Gotta Dance": Up next is "Some Days You Gotta Dance," a high-energy tune that encourages listeners to let loose and find joy in the moment, no matter what life throws their way. The live performance is infectious, with Natalie Maines’ vocals and Martie Maguire’s fiddle work propelling the song into a full-blown celebration. It’s a perfect follow-up to "Goodbye Earl," lightening the mood and keeping the energy high.

3. "There's Your Trouble": The set continues with "There's Your Trouble," one of the Dixie Chicks' early hits that showcases their knack for blending sharp lyrics with catchy melodies. The song’s tale of missed romantic opportunities is delivered with an upbeat tempo, and the band’s harmonies shine through, proving why this song became one of their signature tracks.

4. "Long Time Gone": Offering a reflective critique of the modern country music scene and a lament for its lost roots. The live rendition is both soulful and defiant, with the Chicks’ harmonies underscoring the song’s message. The crowd resonates with the song’s nostalgic yearning, and the band’s tight musicianship is on full display.

5. "Tortured, Tangled Hearts": This song brings a touch of classic country heartbreak to the set. "Tortured, Tangled Hearts" is a tale of love gone wrong, delivered with a mix of sorrow and fire. The Chicks’ instrumental prowess is highlighted here, particularly Emily Strayer’s banjo and Martie’s fiddle, which weave together to create a rich, emotional tapestry.

6. "Travelin' Soldier": The mood shifts with "Travelin' Soldier," a poignant ballad about a young soldier and the girl he leaves behind. The Dixie Chicks’ tender performance brings out the full emotional weight of the song, with Natalie’s voice carrying the sorrow and longing that lie at its heart. The audience is visibly moved, and the silence that follows each verse underscores the song’s powerful impact.

7. "Hello Mr. Heartache": The band picks up the pace again with "Hello Mr. Heartache," a song that turns heartbreak into a honky-tonk dance. The live version is lively and fun, with the Chicks embracing the classic country sound while keeping their unique edge. It’s a moment of levity, with the band and audience alike enjoying the catharsis of dancing through pain.

8. "Cold Day in July": "Cold Day in July" slows things down again with its bittersweet tale of love lost. The Dixie Chicks’ harmonies are the star here, lending the song a haunting beauty. The performance is understated but deeply affecting, with the band allowing the song’s emotional core to shine through without any unnecessary embellishment.

9. "White Trash Wedding": The energy ramps back up with "White Trash Wedding," a rollicking bluegrass number that pokes fun at a hasty, mismatched marriage. The live performance is a whirlwind of fast-paced picking and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, with Natalie’s spirited vocals leading the charge. The audience responds with laughter and cheers, making it one of the night’s most entertaining moments.

10. "Lil' Jack Slade": "Lil' Jack Slade" is an instrumental piece that showcases the Dixie Chicks’ technical skill and bluegrass roots. The band members each get a chance to shine, with fast-paced solos that leave the audience in awe. It’s a moment that highlights their musicianship, reminding everyone that these women are not just vocalists but also top-tier instrumentalists.

11. "A Home": Returning to a more introspective tone, "A Home" explores themes of belonging and displacement. The live performance is heartfelt, with the Dixie Chicks bringing a sense of warmth and sincerity to the lyrics. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever felt lost or out of place, and the band’s emotive delivery makes it all the more powerful.

12. "If I Fall You're Going Down With Me": This song brings a playful, almost mischievous energy back to the stage. "If I Fall You’re Going Down With Me" is a declaration of mutual risk in love, delivered with a wink and a smile. The Dixie Chicks keep the mood light and fun, with a bouncy rhythm that gets the crowd moving and singing along.

13. "Cowboy Take Me Away": A fan favorite, and the live performance doesn’t disappoint. The song’s yearning for freedom and connection is brought to life through Natalie’s soaring vocals and Martie’s emotive fiddle playing. It’s a romantic and expansive song, and the audience’s enthusiastic response shows just how beloved it is.

14. "Godspeed (Sweet Dreams)": The set takes a tender turn with "Godspeed (Sweet Dreams)," a lullaby-like ballad that Natalie dedicates to her son. The performance is delicate and intimate, with the band creating a gentle, soothing atmosphere. It’s a moment of calm amidst the high energy of the rest of the set, offering a glimpse into the personal side of the Dixie Chicks.

15. "Landslide": Their cover of Fleetwood Mac’s "Landslide" is a highlight of the night, with the Dixie Chicks putting their own spin on the classic. The harmonies are flawless, and the emotional depth of the song is fully realized in their performance. The crowd is enraptured, and the song’s themes of change and reflection resonate deeply with both the band and the audience.

16. "Ready to Run": The energy spikes once again with "Ready to Run," a spirited anthem about independence and escape. The live version is full of life, with the band’s infectious enthusiasm spreading to the crowd. It’s a fun, liberating moment that invites everyone to throw caution to the wind and embrace the thrill of the unknown.

17. "Wide Open Spaces": "Wide Open Spaces" is another cornerstone of the Dixie Chicks’ catalog, and the live performance captures the song’s expansive, hopeful spirit. It’s a song about growth, freedom, and self-discovery, and the band’s delivery is both heartfelt and inspiring. The audience sings along, connecting with the universal themes of the song.

18. "Sin Wagon": The show closes with "Sin Wagon," a fiery, rebellious track that leaves the audience on a high note. The song’s uptempo rhythm and cheeky lyrics make it an exhilarating finale, with the Dixie Chicks giving it their all. The crowd responds with wild cheers and applause, a fitting end to a night of powerful performances and unforgettable music.

Featuring: The Dixie Chicks

Natalie Maines - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Emily Robison - Guitar, Dobro, Banjo, Vocals
Martie Maguire - Fiddle, Mandolin, Vocals

Musicians:

David Grissom - Band Leader, Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar
Roscoe Beck - Electric Bass, Upright Bass
John Deaderick - Keyboards, B-3 Organ, Accordion
John Gardner - Drums, Percussion
John Mock - Acoustic Guitar, Papoose, Irish Whistles, Concertina/Percussion
Keith Sewell - Acoustic Guitar
Brent Truitt - Mandolin
Robby Turner - Steel Guitar, Dobro

Strings:

Lorenza Ponce - Violin, String Leader
Matt Brubeck - Cello
Linda Ghidossi-Deluca - Viola
Hiroko Taguchi - Violin

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