Dixie Chicks Songs That Show They're a Force to Be Reckoned With

The Dixie Chicks are one of the most iconic — and of the most controversial — acts to ever impact country music. When listening to their songs, it’s not hard to draw comparisons to new artists, as they were trailblazers who paved the way for other firecracker acts, like Miranda Lambert.

The trio have managed to ruffle feathers both on and off the stage, often channeling their frustrations into their music. Some of those songs make our Top 10 list, like the undeniable “Not Ready to Make Nice” and “Daddy Lessons,” but damn if they can't put out a heartfelt ballad, too. You'll find “You Were Mine” and “Travelin’ Soldier” on this 10 Dixie Chicks Songs That Prove They're a Force to Be Reckoned With list, too. With such a fierce legion of fans and critics alike, we know the order in which these songs appear is bound to draw debate.

10
"There’s Your Trouble"
From 'Wide Open Spaces' (1998)
One of the Dixie Chicks' earlier songs, "There's Your Trouble" sounds like it could have been cut by Trisha Yearwood, with the soft twang in Natalie Maines’ voice reminiscent of the superstar. It's a far cry from their controversial songs and was a solid introduction to the group, proving them as a soulful country act destined for stardom. It was their first No. 1 hit.
9
"You Were Mine"
From 'Wide Open Spaces' (1998)
This trio's gift for giving a compelling vocal delivery on a fiery track is just as sharp as on a soft ballad, as is the case on “You Were Mine." Together, the Chicks manage to paint a poignant picture of heartache with a sorrowful fiddle and lyrics to match, while their subtle harmonies make it that much more emotional. It’s a refreshing number in a catalog of mostly edgy songs, showing off their diverse talent.
8
"Daddy Lessons"
From Beyonce's 'Lemonade' (2016)
Always ones to embrace a musical challenge, the Dixie Chicks made quite the impression with a performance of this originally-Beyonce song with the superstar herself at the 2016 CMA Awards. Though it garnered some scrutiny — okay, people were really critical — the song was a perfect collaboration for the legendary pop star and bold country group, as the eclectic jazz-meets-country sound complements not only their voices, but their strong-willed personalities. Though their presence is subtle, the Dixie Chicks still manage to stand out on the fierce track, with the final harmonizing notes bound to leave you with chills for days.
7
"Ready to Run"
From 'Fly' (1999)
Just one of the elements that sets this group apart from other acts is the individual sound they bring to the table. The presence of an Irish flute at the beginning of "Ready to Run" gives off a Celtic vibe before they bring in the fiddle to add a vibrant twist on a traditional country song. It’s easily one of their catchiest songs, grabbing the listener’s ear with their signature harmonies over an inviting banjo and fiddle. It's one of the best Dixie Chicks songs.
6
"Wide Open Spaces"
From 'Wide Open Spaces' (1998)
If there’s one place where the Dixie Chicks are consistent, it’s in their ability to deliver a true country song, and that certainly rings true with “Wide Open Spaces.” The way they capture the universal desire to chase one’s dreams is poignant — “Wide Open Spaces” is one to sing at the top of your lungs and only solidifies their talent. No wonder it scored them a second No. 1 single and crossover success that helped launch them into worldwide stardom.
5
"Not Ready to Make Nice"
From 'Taking the Long Way' (2006)
The Dixie Chicks know how to make a statement, and “Not Ready to Make Nice” is a powerful one, to say the least. A brave response to the severe backlash the group received from their controversial comments about former President Bush, make no mistake that these determined women are as strong and daring as ever with this song. You have to give them credit for their unapologetic nature and this song doesn’t just ask for respect — it demands it.
4
"Cowboy Take Me Away"
From 'Fly' (1999)
There’s a reason "Cowboy Take Me Away" is one of the Dixie Chicks' signature songs: they have a compelling way of bringing out the dreamer in all of us from the moment we hit play. Its imaginative lyrics and soothing fiddle create a dream-like scenario that makes you feel like you’re flying away with the trio. It’s the perfect daydream song that takes the listener high into the wide open skies, making for a beloved hit.
3
"Goodbye Earl"
From 'Fly' (1999)
“Goodbye Earl” is one of the Dixie Chicks’ feistiest, yet humorous songs of their career. But it’s also one of the most important songs they’ve released, as it bravely tackles the serious issue of domestic violence in a way that’s not only comedic, but makes you want to cheer on their effort to take down an abuser. The fact that they were able to take such a gristly subject matter and flip it on its head and make the victim the hero truly put them ahead of their time in country music.
2
"Travelin’ Soldier"
From 'Home' (2002)
Powerful — that's a word that describes “Travelin’ Soldier," a song from the Dixie Chicks' Home album. Yet another example of their masterful ability to take on a song that’s not their own and make it so, the song’s heartbreaking tale of a lonely soldier killed in battle pulls you in with its first chords and doesn’t let go until the very end. The word “haunting” only begins to describe the song and their harmonies, which rightfully found a home at the top of the charts.
1
"Landslide"
From 'Home' (2002)
It’s a risk taking on one of the most popular songs by a group as revered as Fleetwood Mac, but the Dixie Chicks managed to not only present an honorable cover, but one that would become one of their most identifiable songs to date. The Chicks' harmonies on "Landslide" add a whole new element to the already classic song. Not only is it a breath of fresh air, it also brings the softer side of their image to light. To be able to take on such a challenge and exceed all expectations makes the song a worthy candidate for their best ever. Really, it's arguably one of the best songs to ever hit country radio.