Former Dixie Chicks star, Natalie Maines, has spoken out about about her political beliefs, saying that she is “pro-gay everything”, and that she considers herself to be progressive.

Speaking to USA today, the singer who is currently releasing her first solo-album, said she was more liberal that people had assumed in the past, and that she was a long-time supporter of the gay community.

“I’m pro-gay marriage. Pro-gay everything,” she said. “I’m pro-choice. I’m liberal on every social aspect, probably. More liberal than people would even believe.”

She said people may be surprised to learn that she has a slightly conservative leaning, when it comes to gun-control, because of her Texas upbringing.

“There’s still some of that Texas in me, as far as the gun debate. I wish there were no guns, I’m all for gun restrictions,” she said. “But I’m also of the mindset, if nothing changes, I’m getting a gun.”

The Dixie Chicks received hate mail and lost fans when Maines said in 2003 that the band were “ashamed” that George W Bush came from Texas, over the Iraq war.

Her new solo album Mother is now available for purchase in the US.