The singer-songwriter expresses her side of a fallout between her sister, cousin, and management
There seems to be trouble within the renowned country trio Chapel Hart. Lead vocalist Danica Hart says she’s being “forced out” of the group she co-founded with her sister Devynn and their cousin Trea Swindle in their home state of Mississippi. Danica alleges violence and abuse are her reasons for speaking out ahead of an “official” statement expected by management.
“Over the past several months, I have remained silent, but I can no longer stay quiet about what has happened. I am being pushed out of my band and my company, and throughout this time, I and other members of our team have been subjected to physical violence and abuse. I am at the point of breaking,” she says in an online statement.
She continues, “My intention was to fulfill the commitments and complete the agreed-upon dates, but given the circumstances, I no longer feel safe or supported to continue. I said to Jeff Glixman & management I wanted to leave because of the bad behavior and immorality going on that had no consequence or repercussions, and expressed that’s why I wanted to leave. But they continue to say “you said you wanted to leave,” but not in that context, and simply That. Is. Not. True. (They already have a drafted press release typed up saying that the breakup is because I’m leaving… that’s not true.)”
Hart says if she didn’t sign the agreement by midnight last night, her sister and cousin would continue to perform as Chapel Hart.
“I received a message tonight stating that if I didn’t sign a document typed up by Jeff Glixman & Trea Swindle & Devynn Hart, saying, if i didn’t sign it by 12 am, they would be continuing their career in Chapel Hart without me! And my question is how???”
Danica says she plans to appear at shows this weekend in Iowa and Missouri, but is seeking the public’s assistance with obtaining the proper legal representation.
“I would like to seek legal counsel to figure out how to move forward, as I am not sure how to proceed legally at this time. I have called several law firms that advertised entertainment law (in New Orleans ) and all said they no longer do that.? I’m going to proceed going to the performance this weekend, but i want to be clear, I do not feel comfortable or safe. I really need an entertainment attorney or maybe a regular attorney or any suggestion on what to do… please help.”
None of the other members nor management has released a statement as of press time.
Chapel Hart has nine dates on their schedule through the fall, including two in Europe.
While the trio’s future is unclear, Danica just launched a subscribers page, which includes exclusive content.
The group became a global phenomenon with their show-stopping golden buzzer performance of the Dolly Parton-inspired track, “You Can Have Him Jolene,” on NBC’s America’s Got Talent in 2022. Since AGT, the ladies have quickly become a mainstay in the country music industry, receiving four standing ovations during their 2022 Grand Ole Opry debut, having been named to the Opry’s NextStage Class of 2023, performed at the CMT Music Awards, ACM Country Kickoff, Tamron Hall, headlining their 60+ date Glory Days headlining tour, and releasing three albums and a Christmas project.
