We knew [the song] was special because it was so autobiographical.

The stakes were definitely higher on that song. We knew it was special because it was so autobiographical, and we had to get it right. And once we had that song done, it freed us up to do the rest of the album without that burden.

Especially in the Dixie Chicks, everyone wants you to play a role. Natalie was the feisty one. Martie was the nice one 'cause she smiles all the time onstage, and I was the quiet one.

Some people still believe you should just fall in line with what's going on - and that's scary. It makes a mockery of freedom of speech.

I think you can only last this long in the business when you're making the best music, and he's just one of those people and he's still doing it today. He totally inspired us growing up. I know he doesn't like to hear stuff like that, but [he is] the soundtrack to our lives, to a lot of people's lives, I'm sure. After meeting him, it was kind of nice to know that he was even better than I had imagined he would be. Nicer, sweeter. Just pure class.

I ride horses once in a while, but I'm no expert. I hold on for dear life.