And my point still stands. Someone mentioned it might be part of her
contract not to voice certain politcal opinions. I doubt that but
suppose it's possible in which case she shouldn't have violated said
contract if she willingly signed it. She was perhaps pressured into
apologizing but not forced. What could they do to her if she didn't?
Threaten to hold back roaylties? Well tough. When someone makes a strong
statement they have to be willing to stand by that statement and all the
ramifications that follow. If they aren't willing to do so then maybe
they should keep quiet. It's up to the individual where his ethics and
beliefs lie. 

I do not feel that she was censored by anyone in any way unless she was
threatened with Saddam style torture. Again, I highly doubt record execs
have reached that level. And many individuals HAVE withstood torture for
their beliefs. So I sure as heck am not going to feel sorry for a singer
who knuckles under to record company pressure. Were the other two Dixie
Chicks brought before her and had their limbs cut off to get her to
talk? As always, it's one more cushy celebrity who can't deal with every
day life and its consequences. 

Karen

Shawn Campbell not Raod Angel said:
Maines was forced (almost certainly by her record company or management)
to back off from the statement she had made because of fear that her
comments would hurt record or concert ticket sales. Maines, placed in a
position where her livlihood was threatened, was forced to recant her
remarks (in painful legal-speak, as mentioned). Her employer basically
forced her to censor herself (admittedly after the fact). That sucks.