The Chicks Postpone Los Angeles Concert Due to Illness

The Chicks postponed their Los Angeles concert at the Dolby Theatre hours before doors were scheduled to open due to illness. The show, originally set for Monday, November 2, has been rescheduled for Wednesday, November 4. All previously purchased tickets will remain valid for the new date.

The announcement was made on Monday, November 2. The final stop in Los Angeles was originally set for Tuesday, November 3. The specific band member who fell ill has not been identified, and the severity of the illness has not been shared.

The 20th anniversary tour context

The Los Angeles show is part of The Chicks' Taking the Long Way 20th anniversary tour. The tour features Natalie Maines, Martie Maguire, and Emily Strayer performing material from their multi-platinum 2006 album.

That album, Taking the Long Way, debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200. It was the first album the trio released after Maines denounced the Iraq War in 2003.

Career highlights and the 2003 controversy

The Chicks' career was shaped by widespread backlash following that 2003 incident. Natalie Maines criticized then-President George W. Bush and the Iraq War during a concert in London. Some country radio stations stopped playing their music, and protests and boycotts followed.

The controversy directly influenced their next work. The album Taking the Long Way and its single "Not Ready to Make Nice" were spawned from the fallout of those onstage comments. The song reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In 2007, the album earned the group five Grammy Awards. The wins included album of the year, while "Not Ready to Make Nice" won both record of the year and song of the year.

Fan reaction and logistics

Fans expressed dismay at the last-minute cancellation. Some had traveled long distances, including one who flew in from Canada with family. Others had driven more than four hours from out of state. On social media, many shared disappointment alongside well-wishes for the band's health.

For those unable to attend the new date, refunds are available from the original point of purchase. The trio, who released their first studio album in 14 years with Gaslighter in 2020, will perform the rescheduled show at the Dolby Theatre on Wednesday, November 4th.