Natalie Maines is an American singer and songwriter, best known as the lead vocalist of the country music group The Chicks, formerly known as The Dixie Chicks. Born on October 14, 1974, in Lubbock, Texas, she gained fame in the late 1990s and early 2000s with hits like "Wide Open Spaces" and "Not Ready to Make Nice." Maines is recognized for her powerful voice and outspoken personality. She has been involved in various social and political issues, notably speaking out against the Iraq War, which led to significant controversy and backlash against her band.