I'm expecting it to be a wonderful year for all of us and that it will be an exceptional year for Taylor Hicks and the Soul Patrol!!
Wanted to take this opportunity to wish Taylor, his family and all of my soul sisters and soul brothers a Happy New Year from the pond!
The New Year's Cake Stir together golden dreams of hope. Add a cup of New Year's light.
Catch flakes of Heaven's drifting snow, To make the mixture pure and white.
Add to it a stirring of Angels' Wings, Bearing Joy, Love, and Inspiration.
Blend into the mix a Prayer of Hope To God for the souls of every nation.
Frost your cake with Loving Kindness, And then to make it especially nice ...
Give a large serving to the world; And Peace on Earth with every slice!
Dear Lord, please give me ... A few friends who understand me, and yet remain my friends.
A work to do which has real value, without which the world would feel the poorer.
A mind unafraid to travel, even though the trail be not blazed. An understanding heart and a sense of humor.
Time for quiet, silent meditation. A feeling of the presence of God. And the patience to wait for the coming of these things, with the wisdom to know them when they come.
~By W.R. Hunt~
The New Year lies before you Like a spotless tract of snow Be careful how you tread on it For every mark will show.
Wishing everyone and their families a very safe and Happy New Year! God Bless, Bloom
I have been on Taylor's hamster wheel all day ... how in the world does he do it ??? (guess you have to be young) But I finally hit pay dirt ... woo hoo!!
BIG THANKS go to Ragsqueen (Mandy) for her up-close video of Taylor Hicks' spectacular half-time performance at the Liberty Bowl!!
Be sure to check out Mandy's blog (link in my sidebar) for her recap from the President's Gala and for her glowing recap of Taylor's Liberty Bowl half-time performance!
Now I am a happy camper, this is a video that needs to be seen and this performance should have been shown around the world!!!
photo credit: DidNotExpectThat from Taylor's Angels (Bless YOU!) Please visit their blog in my side bar for additional videos, photos and recaps from the 2007 Liberty Bowl!
Taylor with the kids from St. Jude's
And another awesome half-time video, taken from the 50 yard-line by EJ from the Boogie Board. (Thank YOU!) You will find additional videos and photos for the President's Gala by clicking on the link for The Boogie Board in my sidebar.
What a true showman Taylor is ... as always I'm blooming proud!!!
photo credit: Herrington Marketing (Thank YOU)
Please feel free to comment ... your comments are welcome and appreciated! Bloom
Today's class will be led by the Soul Man himself Taylor Hicks!!
Be sure to set your clock ... and check your pulse first!!!
The 2007 Liberty Bowl game begins at 3:30 CST ... but the real action begins ... when the whirling, twirling, soul-injected Taylor Hicks hits the stage at half-time!!
So today's the day to feed our Taylor addiction AND shed those Missing Taylor Blues!
UPDATE Well ... ESPN did not air the half-time show ... so we did not get a chance yet to get our hearts pumping and pulse racing ... hoping and praying for video now!! I'm especially looking forward to seeing the kids from St. Judes with Taylor!!!
Here is a short interview from Taylor at the Liberty Bowl ... he sounds great and looks wonderful!
video credit: geanna5876 Thank YOU!
And thanks to Ragsqueen here are a few photos from last night's President's Gala.
'Twas the month after Christmas, and all through the house, nothing would fit me, not even a blouse; The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste, at the holiday parties had gone to my waist;
When I got on the scales there arose such a number! When I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber), I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared, The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared;
The wine and the rum balls; the bread and the cheese, and the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please." As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt, and prepared once again to do battle with dirt, I said to myself, as only I can, "You can't spend a winter disguised as a man!"
So, away with the last of the sour cream dip. Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip. Every last bit of food that I like must be banished, 'til all the additional ounces have vanished.
I won't have a cookie--not even a lick. I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick. I won't have hot biscuits, or corn bread, or pie, I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore, But isn't that what January is for? Unable to giggle, no longer a riot. Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!
Who could ever forget the excitement of Taylor's 'One Night In Nashville' tracks surfacing!! Everybody was playing Name That Tune with the lyrics from "Happier With Him".
It's been seven years now since that snowy night Taylor first arrived in Nashville, ready to take the Music City by storm.
From 'Heart Full Of Soul'
(Lost And Found In Music City) Taylor says it took only one night for his hopes and dreams to come to a crashing halt. "Thinking back on it now, I can conjure up the excited, hopeful feeling I had driving into Nashville on that very first snowy evening. The entire Music City appeared before me like one big clean slate. For one night at least, Nashville looked exactly like I'd hoped it would be - a place of limitless promise where I'd undoubtedly make my mark. And then the next morning I woke up."
Like a million other hopefuls Taylor had gone to Nashville with the dream of becoming a star and landing a major record deal. But as Taylor points out ...
From 'Heart Full Of Soul' (Lost And Found In Music City) "There was one huge hitch ... I never paused long enough to consider what should have been glaringly obvious ... whatever else I might have been, I was - for better or worse - no country singer. When I speak I might sound country, but when I sing I am just a soul man."
While Taylor might think he is just a Soul Man, his Soul Patrol knows better. His music spans an endless list of genres, Country included.
Those Nashville doors he knocked on didn't open for him 7 years ago, but you have only to watch his concert at the Ryman ... and listen to the roar of the crowd ... to know how much Nashville loved Taylor Hicks!
So I say ... Music City get ready ...'cause there is an inbound train approaching and it is on track for 2008 ... get those doors open!
The titles of these 2 tracks from 'One Night In Nashville' ..."People Get Ready" and "Forever Man" .... are telling 'cause you can't Whomp Taylor Hicks down.
From 'Heart Full of Soul' (What'd I Say) ""If you believe in yourself, anything that comes your way - good, bad, or really ugly - can't knock you too far off track"
video presentation by PayTheDevil (Thank You)
I love when Taylor sings "Forever Man" and although I have not been fortunate enough to catch him singing it live .... we have video! Taylor appears with his old band, Little Memphis Blues Orchestra (LMBO), at the Woodlands in Wilkes-Barre 9-24-06 after the final American Idol tour show.
video capture thanks to jensenholmes
And a big thank you to DidNotExpectThat for her wonderful photos of Taylor at the Ryman that I took liberty with to create the header collage!
OUR FOREVER SOUL MAN IS ON TRACK ... AMERICA GOT IT RIGHT IN 2006 AND THE LIBERTY BOWL GOT IT RIGHT IN 2007 ... I'M READY AND I'LL BE WATCHING!!
The 49th annual Auto Zone Liberty Bowl will be played Saturday, December 29, 2007 at 3:30 p.m. CST at the Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis Halftime show ~ Headlined by Taylor Hicks
"The Soul Patrol Has Gone Global" ~ Taylor Hicks ~
I expect we all are watching the wonderful videos of Taylor from Asian Idol teary-eyed and longing for the days when we had our own Taylor Hicks on TV fix regularly.
And the phenomenal videos from his Ayala Mall performances ...a big WOW Taylor is in top form and looking mighty fine ... and I can't forget to mention the band and back-up singers are wonderful!!
Nothing or no one can compare to the excitement that Taylor brings to his performances, he is a born entertainer, and I'm so very proud of our Soul Man!!
We were so excited and proud to know that he had been invited to perform, but the excitement of actually being able to see those performances and so quickly thanks to the wonderful people who made these videos available ... well it is 7th heaven!
Taylor is wooing and wowing Asia, as we knew he would! Which brings to mind one of Taylor's quotes ... "Good people know good music when they hear it"!!
Thank goodness for the good people who have been capturing on video Taylor's outstanding concert performances ... and sharing their photos!!!
There are enough to fill pages and pages of Taylor's scrapbook ... but till I get those pages done I have been collecting them here and updating as they appear. 13 videos of Taylor Hicks' performances and interviews, news articles and photos ... with more to come!!
(photo courtesy of Asian Idol TV)
From Fox6, Birmingham Taylor Hicks an Idol in Asia
Birmingham native and former American Idol winner Taylor Hicks is stealing the show overseas!
Taylor performed Sunday night on the Asian Idol finale in Jakarta, Indonesia, along with Australia Idol winner Guy Sebastian. Taylor's hit song "Do I Make You Proud" was used as a promotion throughout the competition.
After finishing that show, Taylor headed for the Philippines where he just performed a show in Glorietta and has three shows this week in Manila. At each show, Taylor is performing nine songs -- some of his originals and some Christmas tunes, offering him huge exposure in Asia.
Taylor's Press conference at the Hard Rock Cafe, Glorietta December 18, 2007
video credit: Gerry Alanguilan
One-on-one with Taylor Hicks: A voluntary initiation to Soul Patrol by Kaye Villagomez December 23, 2007
Clad in a casual long-sleeved shirt and jeans, a much–rested Taylor Hicks (who had to adjust from a frenzied press conference the day before this interview) welcomed the Manila Bulletin in this up–close meeting that eventually certifies the deserving American Idol in the guy.
In 15 or so minutes with Taylor, we would also later realize we’ve been Soul Patrolled.
Taylor is the first American Idol winner to visit Manila. Others were runners-up Constantine Maroulis of season four and Taylor’s fellow season fiver Elliot Yamin. All of them were brought in by Ayala concert touring group and they have performed in Ayala Malls and special shows. In Taylor’s case, there’s a friendly tie-up with Mossimo. He stayed for a good four days and we were able to get comfy with Taylor on his third day on Manila at the Ascott Hotel in Makati.
Other than the fact that he is much, much better-looking in person than on TV and print, the 31-year old Hicks is one of those (few?) artists who really kept it grounded. He would only talk about his pre-Idol struggles ("I have been performing since birth!") if he could also talk about respect for other artists ("I’ve had my difficulties, but so did others and most of them went through more struggles than I did.") Also, the laidback personality adds to that charmer air of warmth he effortlessly exudes. He must have said "Awesome!" some eight times each time we would talk about Manila and its people.
To those who might have been living under a rock, here are flash facts about Taylor: He won "American Idol" season five in 2006 off a finale between him and drop-dead gorgeous Katharine McPhee. Ryan Seacrest and Idol fans likened Taylor’s appearance to Jay Leno, Phil Donahue and George Clooney. His fans call themselves ‘Soul Patrol’ back in Idol and to this day (while McPhee was nicknamed ‘McFever’).
Born Taylor Ruben Hicks on Oct. 7, 1976, the Idol is an American soul singer and songwriter who grew up performing around Southeastern US area. Taylor auditioned for Idol in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 10, 2005. He originally wanted to try out in Memphis, Tennessee, but auditions in that city were canceled to accommodate relief efforts for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. His Southwest Airlines flight out of New Orleans had been canceled, and he had been offered a travel voucher to use at a later date. He used the ticket voucher to fly to Las Vegas. Taylor would later pass the audition—that almost slipped—with the nods of Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul; not Simon Cowell who thought Hicks would not make it to the final round. Retribution would later be at hand when on Taylor’s first performance for the voting public, Simon swallowed his words and recalled his earlier claim. Then the rest, as they say is history.
Post-idol, Taylor’s "Do I Make You Proud" (which was also the theme in the concluded Asian Idol), clinched Billboard No. 1 and the self-titled CD, his first mainstream project, earned gold when released. He has performed with various famous acts and will continue touring the world and in consequence, touring his dreams.
Here, Taylor talked about our own Philippine Idol Mau Marcelo (whom he performed with in Asian Idol in Indonesia), loving the Philippines, his passions and most of all, a heart too charged with soul.
How has your Manila stay been so far? "Awesome! I knew it will be special but everything has been awesome here!"
Name three things you will never forget about your experience here. "There are a lot! But if I were to name three, it’s how gracious people here are, the weather and again just how well I’ve been received here wherever I go." Are you aware of how big an impact American Idol has made here? Do you know how big you are here in Manila? "I did not know but I am becoming aware of that now. And one thing’s for sure, this may be my first time here, but it’s definitely not the last." You are the first American Idol winner to visit us... "Am I? That’s great. I plan to come more often." You were in Indonesia for the Asian Idol before you went here, were you able to meet our representative Mau Marcelo? "I’m not sure … Wait, yes I remember Mau because I sang with her and performed my song ‘Do I Make You Proud’ along with the other finalists and she’s a real great singer. She’s very talented." Were you able to see any other local singers while you’re here? "Unfortunately not, but I was able to meet Sway Penala who was with my batch on Idol and he’s told me so many wonderful things about the Philippines and the people and the passion Filipinos have for music and I finally experienced it for myself." Would you like to perform or collaborate with Filipino artists? "Definitely, I would love for that to happen." Do you still get nervous before a performance? "Yeah, a little bit I guess." You mentioned yesterday during your press conference that you would like to try movies... "Yes, that’s true. I would love to crossover if there’s an opportunity, but it does not mean that music will take a back seat. Music will always be my first love and if I had to choose, I will always choose music." What role would you want to do first? "I seriously would want to be an extra, just the guy who passed by, little dialogue maybe, just a start. I don’t mind doing that really." Were you able to trace where Soul Patrol really came from? "I think that’s a mystery I will never be able to solve. I just embrace it and I'm glad that people who have joined the ‘patrol’ are still here with me." What’s next after this Manila stop? Is there a new recording coming up? "Yes, we are working on a new album and with this one, I got to prepare a lot more and devote more time into it making me more involved here than the first one." So there will be more of the real Taylor in this CD? "Definitely. Yeah, you can say that. I’m really excited about this next CD we’re coming up with." All originals? "Basically, but there will be a lot of collaborations also." Which do you think is more difficult, breaking into prominence or keeping it big in the industry? "You know what ... I feel that both are in the same level as far as difficulty is concerned. It’s one thing to be able to penetrate the business ... yet it’s another to stay thriving in it." Since "American Idol" had its lowest ratings in season six (by Idol finale standards), how long do you think the show will go on? "As long as there are people like me, the millions who dream and more millions who watch, I think the show will still be in for a long run. It will always be a pleasure for me to guest in the show. They have all my support." How much of your goals have you reached so far? "I’ve been very blessed. I am very fortunate to have been given all the opportunities that have been coming my way since Idol. I’m just thankful and I’m going to keep on going." I believe it was John Lennon who said "the dream is always better than the reality," is it the same in your case? "I’d have to say I’m living the dream. I’m always living the dream."
A change in the life of Taylor Hicks Yugel Losorata
American Idol 5th season winner Taylor Hicks is now living the life of a full-pledged celebrity.
He is enjoying it, completely aware of the big change and able to pinpoint the particular shifts his life has experienced ever since winning the title.
In a media event set for the first American Idol winner to visit the Philippines , the 31-yeard-old singer smilingly told the press, "My fan base went this huge (doing a gesture that meant it has ballooned) and I can’t go out without a bodyguard anymore."
Hicks beat the likes of Chris Daughtry, Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin to earn the American Idol title in 2006. A soulful crooner with a famously gray hair, he amused the judges, especially the sharp-tongued Simon Cowell (who at first said he wouldn’t make it to the final round), with his superb performances throughout the competition. With that, he created for himself a large fan base now dubbed as "Soul Patrol."
The oldest to win the American Idol, Hicks is here in Manila and serenaded Filipinos via mall venues, particularly at Glorietta 4 Park last Tuesday night, at Greenbelt 3 Park the following day (in celebration of Mossimo’s 10th anniversary), and at the Trinoma Activity Center on Thursday evening.
Busy with music, the second Idol winner from Birmingham, Alabama (after season 2’s Ruben Studdard) thinks of expanding his artistry to movies sooner or later. For the meantime, he’ll sure have a new year to look forward to with a brand new CD, tour, and DVD record. "I’m pretty excited about 2008," he noted. "But you’ll never know what’s going to happen."
An experienced music man idolizing Ray Charles so much that he carries a little statuette of the legend wherever he performed, Hicks almost didn’t make it to the Idol auditions if he didn’t fly to Las Vegas to get a ticket to the show. It turned out he would be the third Idol winner to have not experienced being in the botton three or two throughout the Finals duration.
His self-titled, major-label debut came out in December of last year while a concert album called "Live at the Workplay Theatre" was released this year.
Being a major, globally acknowledged contest winner, Hicks has the pride to give anyone aiming for fame, fortune, and recognition some advices. "Key is having faith, believing in yourself, and dedicating yourself into your art," shared the self-styled American star.
Taylor Hicks on Pinoys, gray hair & Simon Cowell CULTURE VULTURE By Therese Jamora-Garceau Sunday, December 23, 2007
Like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, Taylor Hicks has got the feeling he’s not in Kansas anymore. Having flown overseas for the first time to perform a series of concerts at Ayala’s Glorietta, Greenbelt and TriNoma malls, the American Idol is a long way from home (in his case, Birmingham, Alabama), and don’t he know it.
I can tell he’s well out of his comfort zone when I meet him at the Ascott Makati Hotel, where he laid his head for five days. I was expecting the Taylor Hicks I saw on American Idol — the exceptionally warm, friendly, down-to-earth Southerner who recruited millions into his Soul Patrol — not just because he could sing so well but also because he was so dang endearing.
The Taylor Hicks I shake hands with doesn’t smile immediately. He seems wary, guarded, and not quite warmed up yet for the first interview of the day.
But a similar scenario played out at his Glorietta 4 concert the night before. About a thousand fans turned out to watch him sing songs like Just to Feel that Way and The Maze from his Idol-produced album, “Taylor Hicks.”
When Hicks emerged, looking much leaner than his Idol days but still sporting the same George Clooney-esque salt-and-pepper hair, he was moving around and singing well, but where was the frenzied, quirky dancing? Where was the harmonica playing?
Backed by all-Filipino musicians culled from Louie Ocampo’s band (Ayala reps say Hicks was extremely impressed and happy with his Pinoy backup, with whom he bonded tightly), by the time the 30- to 50-something Makati crowd had started to clap and sing along, Hicks had warmed to them as well. After a show-stopping rendition of Taking it to the Streets, Hicks ended the set by finally whipping out his harmonica and letting ’er rip. Do I Make You Proud hit the right “senti” note with Pinoys, and during the danceable Heaven Knows, Hicks started twirling his arms frenetically, shouted, “Soul Patrol!” and did his trademark Ray Charles side bend with matching “Whoo!”
Now, that’s the Taylor Hicks we know and love.
What did you know about the Philippines before you came here? "A little bit from my friend Sway Penala. Sway was on the American Idol finale with me. And he told me how cool it is and how musical of a country it is. And I told him one day I’d get a chance to go and so here I am, and I’m excited about it."
What’s the most surprising thing you’ve found out since you arrived? "The traffic isn’t nearly as bad as Jakarta, Indonesia (where he went to judge Asian Idol), so I was pretty excited about getting from the airport to the hotel so quickly."
Are Filipinos similar to Southerners in any way? "Yeah, we both kind of live in very humid climates. So the weather here is similar to the weather back home."
Are you still carrying your statue of Ray Charles with you? "I’ve got Ray. He’s upstairs in my room, actually."
Why is gospel music so important to you? "I think it connects with spirituality. And I think there should be a certain element of spirituality in music, period. So I think that’s a key."
Did you have a religious upbringing? "No, not really. But I did listen to some gospel music and music has definitely helped me through some tough times. So the gospel sound is an influential part of my music."
You said before you had a troubled childhood. What kind of trouble did you get yourself into? "I think all kinds. Well, you know, with (my parents’) divorce and moving around a lot as a kid and stuff, I think the constant variable for me was music. It was more uplifting. "Starting to play music and perform music — it started to take me away.
How small is your hometown, Birmingham, Alabama? Are you friends with Bo Bice? "Actually, I’ve met Bo a couple times. Yeah, Birmingham’s a small town, so everybody knows everybody."
How important is it to have a gimmick on American Idol? "What do you mean by “gimmick”?"
I mean to have your own style. Like Sanjaya with the hair? Something to set yourself apart from the other contestants.
"Well, I think you want to do that musically, to begin with. For me, the music and the performance come first. I think it’s second when you have to differentiate yourself between the other contestants. But I think the choices of songs can help you differ yourself from the other contestants."
So when did you know you had won over Simon Cowell? "I don’t think I’ve won him over yet. I’m still trying." (Laughs)
He never threw you a bone? "Not at all."
How different is it being a local celebrity in your home state to being a national idol? "Well, you know, the pressures are greater. The pressures on being a celebrity, it’s pretty big, ’cause everybody’s looking at you."
Since you won, has there been any pressure to change your image, from dyeing your hair to losing weight? "You know, not really. I think the gray will stay."
I thought the best songs on the album were the ones you wrote, "Soul Thing" and "The Deal". What’s your songwriting process? "I think it’s just whenever it hits you. You know, whenever you get inspired, you should try to act on it. Basically, when the muses hit, then that’s when you take off."
Do you start with music or lyrics first? "It depends on where the inspiration comes from."
Do you keep a notebook with you? "Sometimes I do. If you look at my house back home, you’ll see little notes scribbled everywhere. It’s not just one main notebook, I think it’s a lot of different papers spread all over the room."
With “Taylor Hicks,” your solo album, are you still in touch with the authentic sound you started out with? "Yeah, yeah, I think I am. I think it’s been a fine line that you have to walk between pop sensibilities and authenticity of the older styles — so that’s the kind of sound that you want to create, you know."
How do you feel performing genres other than soul, R&B, and gospel? "I love all styles of music, so, you know, I’ll perform anything at any time."
How do you inject soul into other people’s music? "I think it has to have feeling, you know. You have to connect with your lyrics."
How much creative control did Clive Davis give you in recording your album? "I think, for every artist in that situation, not as much as you want, to begin with. But, you know, some of the songs that I was given for the album were great songs. So I had a lot of great music to pick from.
Did he give you the producer you wanted? "Yeah, we came to an agreement about the producer. I think Matt Serletic was a good choice for that first album."
They also just give you the songs? "I get to pick what songs. They give me 500, and I get to choose. I chose the best songs that fit my voice and my style."
Did you accomplish everything you dreamed of musically with this album? "I definitely think that there’s more music to be made. I’ve released two albums previous to American Idol: one is “Under the Radar,” and “In Your Time,” with my own band before AI, and you know, this is my third album I’ve created, basically. But this fourth one will probably sum up all the work I’ve done on the previous three albums.
Do you still play with your band? "Some of the members I do have in the band, some of the members I auditioned for. You know, you try to make the best music possible. That’s your goal as a musician."
When you won, did it spike the sales of your previous albums? "Yes. A lot."
Do you hope to win over with your performances anything you didn’t get across in the album? "You know, I want to try to take what I learned in the studio and what I learned from a live setting and combine them together to create the sound, whether it’s an album or whether it’s live. I think the more I can learn how to record and play, the better off I’ll be as a recording artist."
Do you plan to record a follow-up soon? "This year sometime. This coming year."
What’s next for you? "Well, the DVD’s coming out — it’s called Whomp at the Warfield, and that’s a theater in San Francisco — and a brand-new album and a brand-new tour. And hopefully, I’ll be back in the Philippines playing for you guys soon.
You had a lot of really enthusiastic fans at your Glorietta 4 Park concert last night. "Yeah, it’s really cool. Ayala Malls have been really nice to bring me over here and let me perform, and hopefully I can come back, not only to perform but to vacation, too."
Were you at all nervous about what sort of reception you’d get? "Um … a little bit, yeah. (Laughs) You know, I’m a long way from Alabama. So, you know, you definitely get a little nervous, but I think music is a universal language and I’m learning: it does cross barriers."
How was your experience judging Asian Idol? "I thought it was really cool. You know, there’s so many great singers that were on the show from each country. It’s amazing that all the countries in Asia can come together and perform on a show like that. It was a really neat thing to see."
What song on your album do you consider essential Taylor Hicks? "Soul Thing". That song has really come alive as far as the live concert goes."
The King of Soul (Patrol) By Kap Maceda Aguila Thursday, December 20, 2007 If we forget just how good the fifth season American Idol performers were, we need only remember three names: Elliott Yamin, Chris Daughtry and the salt-and-pepper-haired fellow who was a little more manic and a little more eager than the rest — the one who would whoop and lean a la Stevie Wonder; the one with a penchant for blowing on a harmonica every chance he got. We thought he looked a little like Jay Leno then, but my girlfriend Joyce digressed when she saw him live.
“Pogi kaya!” she said. Poor Jay. But I left it at that.
Pogi or otherwise, the ring leader of the “soul patrol” surely raked in the votes — enough to catapult him past Katharine McPhee and enough to have our unlikely hero crowned American Idol last May 24, 2006 — in front of some 34.4 million rabid TV viewers.
While we’re at it, consider that some 63.4 million people cast their vote for Taylor Hicks — the “gritty, down-home white R ’n B singer” as the AI champ. Yup, presidencies have been settled with far less votes and hoopla.
He saunters onto the stage, blowing on his harmonica like a judge banging on a gavel: “Hello everybody!” he says, and leans — yes that now famous lean. And just like that, we are taken by Taylor.
It’s his first time in Manila, he reveals, but reckons it won’t be the last. “I love it! I’m excited to be here. I wish I could stay here for a week. I have had a very nice time!”
Ayala Land’s Mall Group seems to have a monopoly on getting AI talents here, but who are we to complain? It wasn’t just too long ago that Yaminoys of all ages went nuts over Elliott’s tour of Ayala Malls.
For Taylor, especially, performing at the mall is certainly a fit. He professes: “I love shopping. I have to get gifts for my brother, my father, my mother, my grandmother, my cousins. Just about everybody. I guess that’s what happens when you win American Idol. You have to buy a bunch of gifts.”
Such candor is rare for usually guarded celebrities. But that’s exactly among the qualities that endeared Taylor to the world — a refreshing character that is purely about the music and rarely about being self-conscious with projections and affectations.
Which is not to say that Taylor takes success for granted. "It’s very exciting for me to be a musician and to be able to travel to places like the Philippines. I am able to share my love for music with other people. I believe that music is truly a universal language. I am very blessed to have the opportunity to come here and perform,” he shares. “Life after American Idol is like sitting on a rocket ship. It’s been great.
I love what I do as a performer.”
Taylor got a taste of the vaunted Filipino hospitality upon departure from the plane: “Well, as soon as I arrived at the airport I was received very warmly by the Filipino people. I have heard from friends of mine that this is the place to come to share music,” he says.
Taylor is good friends with Elliott — who was probably a major influence in Hicks’ decision to fly to the Philippines. Someone asked in jest who would win if Taylor and Elliott would fight it out mano a mano. “Well, I would!” he gamely replies. “I would try to win!”
But seriously, Taylor takes his hat off to Elliott. He says he would have rooted for Elliott to win had he himself not joined that memorable season. Taylor also became close with Filipino contender Jose “Sway” Penala (based in San Francisco), his roommate. “He was one of the people who told me that I needed to come over here and play,” Taylor reveals.
Taylor has been polishing his chops since he was a kid of seven or eight, and is truly living a charmed life now. He is already at work on his follow-up album to his eponymously named debut effort.
“It will be coming out next year. I will also have a DVD out next year. I am pretty excited about doing another tour, maybe in the Asian continent early next year. Expect lots of soul, blues and R ’n B, and also a little bit of pop. I am trying to find the right vibe with different songwriters. I am trying to make the best album that I can.”
Of Mau (Marcelo) who participated in the Asian Idol: “She has a big, great voice. We were at rehearsal and I saw her sing. She is a great singer,” Taylor comments.
When not on, well, soul patrol, Taylor is just like the rest of us — watching sports on TV and swinging at the fairway. “I’m just a regular old guy,” he says with a smile. Well, make that a regular old guy who is rich and successful, right? And, of course, a little loopy. We like our Taylor with a little bit of weird. Like, for instance, do you know that he brings along a Ray Charles doll wherever he performs? “It makes me feel better. He was a major influence in my musical background,” he explains.
“The key is having faith, believing in yourself and navigating yourself through your art,” Taylor proffers.
At the press conference, Taylor seems bereft of any self-importance yet is brimming with obvious confidence. We note that he goes out of his way to sign autographs, sing spontaneously at most given moments, and play his harmonica while waiting for photos to be snapped. There is good reason to believe he remains the simple man from Alabama who loves music and the privilege of singing for others.
Wow, what an idol.
Taylor Hicks Interview from Indonesian Infotainment program.
video credit: asianidolvideo
"Heaven Knows" and "Do I Make You Proud" From Asian Idol 2007
video credit: coolday123
"Taking It To The Streets" From Asian Idol 2007
video credit: asianidol2007.blogspot.com
Taylor dancing with Asian Idol hosts video credit: glotrovato
Friday, December 14, 2007 American Idol Taylor hicks is coming to town
AMERICAN IDOL sensation Taylor Hicks may have slimmed down since winning the world’s most-watched singing contest but he will still take on the shoes of a singing Santa when he comes to Manila to spread Christmas cheers.
Hick’s series of concerts at the Ayala Malls next week is definitely a holiday treat for music fans and last-minute holiday shoppers. With his signature salt-and-pepper hair and raspy soulful voice, Hicks broke all stereotypes and exceeded expectations by taking the American Idol title during the show’s fifth season.
‘American Idol’ champ Taylor Hicks serenades Ayala Malls! 12/15/2007 Prepare for a more joyful Christmas season as Ayala Malls, always the one to bring the best in mall entertainment to the Filipinos, brings American Idol sensation Taylor Hicks to the Philippines!
Presented by Ayala Malls, Taylor Hick’s series of concerts are definitely a holiday treat for fans of both the talent show and of pop music in general. This Idol’s Philippine invasion is part of Ayala Mall’s continuous effort to bring to its patrons high-caliber entertainment with accessibility.
Initially described as the least likely Idol, with his salt-and-pepper hair and raspy soulful voice, Hicks broke stereotypes and exceeded expectations everywhere by winning the American Idol title of the show’s fifth season. His version of hits such as “Takin’ It to the Streets,” “Levon,” “Living For the City” and “Dancing in the Dark,” each performed with Hick’s unique charm and quirkiness, won him legions of devoted fans that proudly call themselves the Soul Patrol. Hicks almost didn’t make it to American Idol during his first try at the over-crowded Memphis audition but he persevered and followed the try-outs to Las Vegas. Once he got in the show, he proved to the judges, most notably to Simon Cowell, that although he doesn’t look or sound like the typical pop star doesn’t mean he can make it to the music scene.
Born in Birmingham, Alabama, and raised in Hoover, Hicks grew up listening to classic soul artists such as Otis Redding and Sam Cooke—which he said he could to relate to even as a child due to the divorce of his parents and other troubles—and singer/songwriters like Van Morrison, Bob Seger, and Billy Joel. His chief influence, however, was Ray Charles, whom he admired so much that he carried a little statue of Charles with him whenever he performed. Though Hicks had no formal musical training, he picked up singing, guitar and harmonica on his own. He began performing for his family at an early age and won a talent contest at his high school (at which time his hair started turning gray). While studying business, communication and marketing at Auburn University, Hicks formed the Passing Through band, and left school early to try his luck in Nashville. As a touring performer, he opened for artists ranging from James Brown to Drive-By Truckers and also performed at the Playboy Mansion. Hicks released two albums with his band: In Your Time, a live album, and Under the Radar.
Hicks signed a record deal with Clive Davis and 19 Recordings Unlimited after winning the American Idol title and released the single “Do I Make You Proud?” that summer. He also performed with the American Idol tour and began work on his major-label debut album. His self-titled debut arrived in December 2006. Live at the Workplay Theatre, a concert album recorded in summer 2006, was released in 2007.
Catch American Idol’s Taylor Hicks in his first-ever Philippine visit this December! This soulful crooner is set to serenade Filipinos starting with an evening show on Dec. 18, 7 p.m. at the Glorietta 4 Park, Dec. 19, 8 p.m. at the Greenbelt 3 Park, and Dec. 20, 7 p.m. at the TriNoma Activity Center. This event is co-presented by Mossimo and Ascott Makati, the official residence of Taylor Hicks.
"Just To Feel That Way" From Greenbelt Park, Manila
video credit: greenlight47
"Use Me" From Greenbelt Park, Manila, Philippines
video credit: iamthepurplewalrus
Mignonette's (iamthepurplewalrus) Meet & Greet photo with Taylor Hicks
photo credit: Mignonette (iamthepurplewalrus)
"White Christmas" Greenbelt Park, Manila
video credit: the greatdrei
Snippet of Taylor signing autographs video credit: iamthepurplewalrus
"The Runaround" and "Big Boss Man" From Glorietta Mall December 18, 2007
video credit: iamthepurplewalrus
Music is a universal language and so are the words "Soul Patrol"!!!!
Taylor Hicks' Philippine Tour musicians Maestro Louie Ocampo - piano and musical director Rickson Ruiz - percussion Bobby Taylo - bass Ric Mercado - guitar Tots Tolentino - sax Mike Agorrilla - drums Marvin Querido -- 2nd keys
Taylor's back-up singers Eugene Cailao Elke Saison-Ortiz
From HDNET TV The American Idol winner thrills and entertains with his blend of high energy rock, funk, and soul, live from The Warfield Theater in San Francisco, CA.
Still waiting for the DVD
A bit of trivia:
HDTV was launched September 2001 by co-founders Mark Cuban, owner of Dallas Mavericks, and Philip Garvin of Colorado Studios.
Though this poem was orginally written as a tribute to David Soul,
I couldn't help but compare how well it fit the magic that
Taylor Hicks has brought into our lifes!
In a crowded street I did stand, lonely, empty inside, a void. Waiting for someone, or something to fill my empty heart and soul.
All around me I hear noise, strident sounds that hurt the ears, harsh music that torments the senses. I cover my ears and run though the streets, pushing through the crowds of blank and empty people …
Yearning to be filled with feelings long past forgotten. I fall to my knees and drop my hands from my ears, expecting them to burst with the agony from the noise ...
When, softly, faintly, I hear a sweet voice, that touches my sore heart. I listen … straining to find what way to go ... to search for this tenderness of song. I pick my self up and begin to stumble forward, becoming surer of foot as the music grows stronger.
I stop at the edge of a beautiful forest, green, fresh, and clean. I follow the sounds drifting toward me, with eagerness, as if to meet a long lost lover.
The songs fill my empty soul with emotions I thought were dead. The melodies that were lofting, made nature seem to dance … As the clouds did smile, and the winds did cry, and trees would caress one with each branch.
I moved into a clearing, where a man sat strumming a guitar … Singing those wonderful melodies that brought me from so far away. His eyes twinkled at me as I sat down at his feet.
Before he began to sing again, he softly touched my hair. And then his voice did fill the wind and all the air around me. Then my heart and soul did fill to the brim with emotions that were once lost.
My heart did fill with love and hope ... once again I felt at peace, and my soul laughed with joy and cried for all the pain of humanity.
I now felt whole again, thanks to this magical man, whose heart and voice did again bring life into this once empty, lonely, human.
And thanks to the magic of the the worldwide web here is a little musical flashback to enjoy!
David Soul called himself The Covered Man. He wore a ski mask and asked only to be known for his music. It was on The Merv Griffin Show that he was spotted by talent scout, Renee Valente who, at the time, was head of a new talent scheme for Columbia Television.
These two men didn't ask for much ....
David asked to be known only for his music ...
and Taylor asked only for a chance to have his voice heard.
I believe in
You have to believe we are magic Nothin' can stand in our way You have to believe we are magic Don't let your aim ever stray And if all your hopes survive Your destiny will arrive I'll bring all your dreams alive For you
HELP SEND A MERRY CHRISTMAS TO THE TORRES CHILDREN!
Yesterday I passed along Taylor's Angels plea for your help for the Bruce Torres family who recently lost everything in a tragic house fire.
The SOUL PATROL is working together through The Whomp Swamp and Taylor's Angels to give a holiday gift of LOVE to the two Torres boys, ages 7 and 10.
As the promoter of Taylor Hicks' Hagerstown concert, Bruce gave a wonderful welcome to Taylor ... this is our opportunity to say "Thank You."
For those of you who are unable to send a donation or
giftcard directly, but would still like to help us be sure these boys have a
great Christmas, another option is to make a donation through paypal to: evancol@aol.com
before midnight on December 20.
You CAN use your Visa or Mastercard. You will receive an email confirmation of your donation with a copy going to Taylor’s Angels. The totals will be posted on Taylor's Angels and
at The Whomp Swamp.
All the donations will be combined, and one Walmart Giftcard will be sent overnight to the Torres Family.
They can then ALL shop on Christmas Eve for presents and goodies for the holidays!
MAKE THIS A HAPPY HOLIDAY FOR THESE DEAR CHILDREN AND WONDERFUL FAMILY!
PLEASE GO TO:www.paypal.com and send your contribution to
If you have visited Taylor's Scrapbook Tribute you will recognize these two photos of Bruce and Cassie Torres of Cabana Cove Concerts along with their outstanding crew.
They are the promoters responsible for bringing Taylor to Hagerstown, Maryland ... and as you know one of the highlights of the Taylor Hicks 2007 tour ... was his performance on July 6th in Hagerstown, Maryland.
These are the people who made sure right down to the very last detail that Taylor's reception in Hagerstown was phenomenal!
Now they need the help of Taylor's Soul Patrol!
Over the weekend, Taylor's Angels received an email from Mr. Torres stating that he and his family had just lost everything in a massive fire that destroyed their home and everything they owned.
Teri from Taylor's Angels has asked that the Soul Patrol rally together and help this family during the holiday season!!
"We realize that you are probably wondering why we ask for support for this family, but we can't emphasize enough that this particular man and his wife are totally dedicated to promoting Taylor Hicks and his music any way possible! Their belief in Taylor is strong and has never wavered.
Taylor’s Angels has continued to correspond with Mr. Torres over the months because of his true dedication to Taylor Hicks and his firm belief in Taylor’s amazing artistry. In working with Mr. Torres to send over 60 children within the community to the July 6 concert, Taylor’s Angels became increasingly aware that this promoter was actually promoting Taylor Hicks, his artistry and his music and was focused on that aspect more so than the bottom dollar. His attention to every detail regarding Taylor’s visit to Hagerstown was impeccably thought out. As a result, Taylor set the one day sales record for tickets at the legendary Maryland Theatre, where his idol Ray Charles had once played. As everyone is well aware by now, Taylor’s performance in Hagerstown was one of the best of the summer tour. All the fan sites were talking about his energy, passion and song selection. We believe Taylor knew the passion with which this show was promoted and was touched by the love he felt in this small community.
We hope that the Soul Patrol will rise to the aid of this incredible promoter who so deeply respects the artistry of Taylor Hicks and believes in his future!
We ask that, if you are able, you will send toys or gift cards to this family who has suffered such tragedy. They have two boys, ages 10 and 7, who need toys. The oldest is an artist and loves to draw and the youngest loves to build things. Department store gift cards would also be a blessing and would allow them to purchase food, clothing and other necessities. Anything you can do would be of tremendous help!
The address for you to send your items is: Mr. Bruce Torres 17734 Burnside Avenue Hagerstown, MD 21740
If you need more information, please email us at taylors_angels@yahoo.com. We thank you for your generous support and wish you all a joyous holiday!"
Teri I hope that the SP reaches out and embraces this family the way that they embraced Taylor Hicks ... with open arms and big hearts!! I cannot even begin to imagine what they are going through right now and my hearts aches to know they have lost everything. It must be a horrendous experience and we can only be thankful that no one was harmed.
Everytime I read Tina's posts about Bruce and Cassie and Cabana Cove Concerts, I am moved anew at how truly unique these promoters are, their love of Taylor and his music speaks for itself. I copied one of the posts that Bruce sent to the SP from Taylor's scrapbook and hope you don't mind if I post it here.
Mr. Torres and his wife, Cassie, were speechless after reading some of the comments on the various fan sites regarding how well received Taylor's concert was in their small hometown. They sent their warmest thanks and wished to respond to Taylor's fans in this manner:
"To all the fans who sent messages regarding the Hagerstown concert, my wife, Cassie, and I want to thank you for the kind words.
It was our first concert production and we were honored to have Taylor Hicks as our guest. Those of you who were there know what a special night it was.
For so many others who could not attend but got to listen in or see some of the video, I am sure you could feel it as well.
Being able to bring so many children to the show was as much a gift to us as it was to them. For one little girl who had recently revealed an unbearable past, it became a very special night. The only peace she has known over the last year has been his music. Her mother told me that looking up at the pictures of Taylor on her wall gave her something to smile about. She was the first person I brought in to meet Taylor during the meet and greet. Nothing will ever erase her horrible experiences, but in that one moment sitting next to Taylor Hicks, the world became a better place.
Taylor Hicks' music is his vehicle, but his caring and compassionate nature is the "heart and soul" of the artist.
It was a pleasure to be a small part of the magic that is following him around. We hope to have him back in Hagerstown sometime, and we hope to see some of you again." Bruce and Cassie Torres Cabana Cove Concerts
Kudos to Taylor Angels' for reaching out to the SP and asking that we show our support by giving back some of what Bruce and Cassie Torres have given to Taylor and to us!!!
We need only remember Taylor's words that night ... whether you were there or listened to the cellcert or watched the outstanding videos from this concert ... "This is the warmest reception I have ever received"
Phyllis from The Official Soul Patrol responded:
"This is very sad to read about ..... This family stood by Taylor and his dreams ... They believe in DREAMS ... WE as Taylor's FAMILY of Dreamers and Dream achievers MUST COME TOGETHER and give with all that we can ... so we can stand as GOOD WILL AMBASSADORS of the TAYLOR HICKS fan club ...f or those children who have had a black cloud placed over the memory of Christmas this year ... WE NEED TO REPLACE THAT MEMORY ... with a RAINBOW ....... I ask that everyone who has been BLESSED by TAYLOR ... or by being A TAYLOR FAN .... give something ,... no matter how little it need be but lets pull together and show these people what Christmas means to "SOUL PATROL"
Gift cards ... a secret SANTA present .. a shirt ... anything attached with HOPE WE CAN WE SHOULD!!! LETS GIVE BACK TO A FAMILY THAT HAS SHOWN UNDYING LOVE for TAYLOR HICKS and HIS DREAMS!!!
GOD BLESS THOSE WHO BROUGHT THIS STORY TO US ... Now we all can be TAYLOR ANGELS and help heal this FAMILY........ GOD BLESS TAYLOR'S FANS ... Lets make this a CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER IN A HAPPY WAY FOR THIS FAMILY PLEASE.!!!
P.S. To the member that has brought this to our attention ... please email me, every available way to send gifts of hope to this family.... ASAP.... these children must receive XMas gifts everyway possible ... I want to send them a Letter from Santa ... PLEASE EMAIL ME WITH CONTACT INFO ... thank you. To the family ... I promise you ... this disaster will bring you a rainbow full of love and needs met .... This is the time of year that great miracles HAPPEN ... you will come through this ... I PROMISE YOU THAT.... this website is powerful when prayers begin for someone ....Your name is on top of each prayer list all over the world ... I am going after I sign off, to make a special visit at the North Star and with my fleet of Angels ... YOU WILL SEE great things will come your way... GOD Bless and GOD'S SPEED WITH EACH OF YOU"
Teri and Phyllis thank you for your compassionate hearts, thank you to Taylor's Angels for bringing this to our attention. I hope we have touched your heart and you will add your support as well as your prayers for this family. We CAN make a difference ... we are The Soul Patrol!!
American Idol winner Taylor Hicks Party through the night at the premier black tie event of the season.
Join dignitaries and celebrities from across the nation for an evening of food, drink, dancing and entertainment. FOR MORE INFORMATION,
CALL THE TICKET OFFICE AT (901) 795-7700
The 49th Auto Zone Liberty Bowl
Versus
TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT !!!!
A REMINDER The 49th annual Auto Zone Liberty Bowl will be played Saturday, December 29, 2007 at 3:30 p.m. CST at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis. GOOD NEWS
The game will be televised on ESPN.
EVEN BETTER NEWS The Auto Zone Liberty Bowl will be the only football game on television Saturday in that time slot.
THE BEST NEWS
In addition to Taylor headlining the Liberty Bowl half-time show and the Liberty Bowl President's Gala the night before, Taylor will be receiving the Bowl's OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT AWARDthat night!!
Woo hoo he is only 31, what an honor!!
Each year this award is presented by the Bowl to an individual or group who has exhibited excellence both in their chosen field and in service to their community.
Some past recipients include Little Richard, B.B. King, Lou Rawls, Clint Black and Alabama.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The 2007 Auto Zone Liberty Bowl will again support St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
This is a partnership that brings together a college-football tradition, and an internationally recognized biomedical research center dedicated to finding cures for catastrophic diseases in children.
The Auto Zone Liberty Bowl Football Classic will increase awareness of the lifesaving work performed at St. Jude Hospital for cancer-stricken children by providing international exposure.
For those of you that will actually be watching the football game and not just the half-time show :-)
From CollegeFootballNews.com
Ranking All 32 Bowl Games
#18
Auto Zone Liberty Bowl UCF vs. Mississippi State
Admit it. You wanted to finally get a chance to see UCF's Kevin Smith, but you missed the Conference USA championship game because you were out shopping with the family. With 2,448 rushing yards and 29 touchdowns, he's a superstar player who's flying under the radar. He ran well against Texas, was held in check by South Florida, and now gets a chance to make a big final statement with a chance to break the single season D-I record, held by Barry Sanders, if he gets 181 yards. Mississippi State will be pumped up to be playing in a bowl game and will be sure to bring it maximum effort. Two motivated teams equals a good bowl game. Stars of the show: 1) UCF RB Kevin Smith, 2) Mississippi State CB Derek
I have been wondering why Taylor didn't perform "Dream Myself Awake" very often during his spring and summer tours. It seems to me that we heard it mainly during his spring tour?
I did find it interesting to learn that out of 107 concert appearances, "Dream Myself Awake" was only on his setlist 35 times. (My thanks to mouser from the Whomp Swamp for providing the numbers!)
I'm curious as to what y'all think is the reason why it was the least performed track from his self-titled CD 'Taylor Hicks', with the exception of course of "Places I've Been" which we never got to see or hear him perform anywhere!
Taylor we're waiting and anticipating !!!
Another thing is ... that there are very few video captures from his concerts of "Dream Myself Awake" ... I thought that kind of strange too!
We may never know the reason unless of course Taylor chooses to share that information with us, but in the meantime I have something to share with you!
Enjoy!
I bet you have a big old smile on your face right now,
this was just an absolutely spectacular performance!!
Well then ... crank up the volume ... put your dancing shoes on ... and get ready to boogie!
I needed a little incentive to get moving today ... so I took a page out of Taylor's book ... and did a little high energy aerobics! It's good for your Heart and Soul!
Here's my playlist featuring ... you guessed it ... Taylor Hicks!
From the top of Taylor's shiny silver head down to his much beloved size 12 alligator boots, one thing Taylor Hicks has always done is stand out from the pack!
"A Change Is Gonna Come" and "Swanee River Rock" began the long and winding road we have travelled.
Many of us became gypsies travelling thousands upon thousands of miles this past year to attend as many Taylor Hicks' concerts as we possibly could.
He is the reason we are sitting here instead of being in the kitchen baking Christmas cookies :-)
Taylor is a born performer and a naturally gifted artist and when he hits the stage magic does indeed happen.
Our eyes are riveted watching every expression, every move he makes, while the sound of his music fills up all of the empty places inside of us.
If the way Taylor makes us feel could be bottled up and sold, the world would be a far richer place.
This 10 minute video presentation of Taylor's American Idol Journey takes us back to where and why we have all boarded the Taylor Hicks' Train and are ready to follow it no matter what direction it takes.
To open the door to opportunity, you need the right key ... for Taylor American Idol was that key!
video presentation by goxen Thank You
Thanks for visiting and taking another trip back down memory lane with me today ... and since I have a little time before the train leaves the station ... and it's time to follow the bus again ...
If I had a box for wishes And dreams that had never come true The box would be empty Except for the memory Of how they were all answered by you
It's unbelievable that it is already the 2nd of December, where has this year gone? I'm wondering how much time must pass before something can be considered nostalgia? My memories of this past year with Taylor aren't bittersweet, they are sweet ... so would they still be considered nostalgia??
It has been a wonderful year for Taylor and for those of us in his travelling circus.
Oh, The Places We Have Been!
You just have to take a look at Taylor's Timeline over at the Whomp Swamp ...
or watch his 'Trip Around The Sun' video up in my sidebar ...
and all those sweet memories come flooding in!
For today's blog though, I'd like to take you just a bit further back. Do you remember our first audio blog from Taylor at graycharles?
How about this excerpt from Taylor's interview with MTV News
"There is a sound that I've kinda thought about and it's called 'modern wamp'. It's like swamp meets boogie meets jazz meets hip-hop.
It's cool. I've been excited about recording it, but I think touring is going to be the funnest thing for me. I'm such a live dude, I've been doing it for so long. I'm going to put some horns on the road with me and have this killer soul band."
Remember this answer from Taylor's interview with Mary Colurso when she asked him to name his top five moments in his
"you know you're famous if" category?
Answer #5 "Really feeling the energy of all the people who are fans. I've always wanted to perform for crowds of people. The more people I perform to, the more energy they give me to give back to them. It's easier to reciprocate that energy. I walk into some of these theaters, and it's standing room only. I've created an audience for myself as an entertainer. When it happens, it's the greatest gift God can give you. I did an outdoor event for 22,000 people at Universal Studios. It was a tour stop. There's a Mardi Gras parade that goes through the park and everybody plays. They closed Universal Studios down to see me perform. That was great."
Yes Indeed!!
And today's journey continues with a Taylorized poem by Mandy set to 'Twas The Night Before Christmas'. She thought it would be fun to take that famous poem and rewrite it as if she were attending a great Taylor Hicks' concert! So as you read the lines, do so with the original poem in mind.
A Concert With Taylor by Mandy ‘Twas the night of the big concert, and music filled the house, Everyone was listening, including the concert hall mouse! The chairs were all filled with fans and newbies alike, As Taylor came on stage and grabbed for his mike! The Soul Patrol was ready to give lots of shouts, As the band started playing so that there were no pouts! We were dancing and waving and singing along ‘Cause we knew all the words to each and every song! “Gonna Move” started the set and was followed by more While Taylor’s sweat was coming out of every possible pore! “The Right Place” and “The Deal” and “Hell of a Day” Were terrific and energetic and perfect in every way. We listened and danced as the concert went on While the cell cert host kept watch on her phone! “Heaven Knows” and “The Maze” and “Soul Thing” too Kept us dancing and screaming for more “Medicated Goo”! Now cameras were taping and pictures were taken For us to post on the boards for everyone’s takin’! Then all of a sudden security did appear Which put us with cameras in panic and fear Then they turned away quickly and looked no more So we kept on filming and snapping pictures galore! Now Brian was on keyboards and Mitch was on bass And Zippy on the drums was making his case! Sam on the guitar and Jeff with the sax and flute Taylor had to play harmonica just to follow suit! Time for “The Runaround” and “Hey Pokey Way” ‘Cause we wanted Taylor and LMBO together to stay! “Wherever I Lay My Hat” and “Give Me Tonight” With Taylor dancing, oh my, what a sight! Taylor was wearing a white shirt with his jeans New Balance sneakers that give him the means To dance and jump and shake his great buns In a way that would make us all glad we’re not nuns! “Just to Feel That Way” and the spunky “My Friend” Is enough to make our backs and knees bend! With a twinkle in his eyes and a smile on his face We couldn’t help but wonder how he kept up his pace! Now he tags lots of songs with out missing a beat Which keeps us all standing rather than having a seat! Then “Badge” was followed by Rod Stewart's “Young Turks” To complete a Taylor concert full of great song perks! The band was real tight as Taylor gave each the spotlight To showcase their talent while they played with all their might! Brian’s fingers across the keyboards, how fast they could fly While Jeff played the sax and the flute together, oh my! my! Zippy on drums kept pace with Sam and Mitch As Taylor sang his songs in perfect note pitch! The main set had ended and the encore started when We finally got to hear all “The Places I’ve Been”! When the concert was ended Taylor yelled “see you real soon” Then he dashed off the stage to miss our collective swoon! Out by the buses he signed autographs and chatted As we waited to see if we’d get our hearts patted! Then he got on the bus but before they drove out of sight, He yelled “SOUL PATROL” and “Thanks for a great night!” Happy Holidays Everyone! (Thank you Mandy for sharing, please visit Mandy's blog in my sidebar for more of her wonderful concert recaps)
Our journey back in time today closes with this beautifully put together video by paythedevil from last December. Thank you, this is truly a treasured gift!
I must warn you though, it leaves me in tears.
If I had a box for wishes And dreams that had never come true The box would be empty Except for the memory Of how they were all answered by you
I think I hear that whistle blowing
Thanks for taking another trip down memory lane with me today. I hope you have enjoyed your visit here and enjoyed revisting some of The Places We've Been. Your comments are welcome, Bloom
Taylor Hicks Premieres New Single From: FanBolt.com Platinum-selling singer/songwriter Taylor Hicks will thrill longtime fans, and inspire new audiences, with the release of his anticipated new studio album, The Distance, on March 10.
The album will be released on Hicks' Modern Whomp Records label and distributed through a partnership with independent artist services company Artist To Market (A2M).
Debuting January 27 digitally is the first single "What's Right Is Right," a mid-tempo song about love and commitment, driven by funky keyboards and sax work.
Produced by Simon Climie (Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Faith Hill), and tapping the talents of guitarist Doyle Bramhall II, bassist Nathan East and drummer Abe Laboriel Jr., The Distance includes fourteen tracks, some co-written by Hicks:
"Wedding Day Blues," "Seven Mile Breakdown," "What's Right is Right," "Hide Nor Hair," "Woman Gotta Have It," "New Found Freedom," "The Distance," "Nineteen," "I Live on a Battlefield," "Yes We Can," "Maybe You Should," "Once Upon a Lover of Mine," "Keepin It Real" and "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness."
Since becoming Season 5 winner of "American Idol," Taylor Hicks has seen his self-titled debut album certified platinum, performed with Willie Nelson, Widespread Panic, The Allman Brothers and Jackson Browne, toured through Asia, penned the Random House memoir Heart Full of Soul, and made his Broadway debut as Teen Angel in Grease.
At the beginning of 2009 Taylor has embarked on a national US tour with Grease with stops in Chicago, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Portland and Seattle. (just to name a few)
Taylor Hicks "Early Works"
First and foremost, these two albums represent who I am and who I am trying to represent as a songwriter. "In Your Time" was a first attempt at recording songs that I had written at the time. Some songs that were really hitting home with me at the time. "Under the Radar" was a second attempt at a first attempt to try to record an album that resembled the production quality of Al Stewart's "Year of the Cat." The songwriting was getting better and my direction as an artist was getting clearer. Warmth in the production was the main goal; "nostalgic" and "endearing" are the terms that I like to use for these two records. Thanks for going on the ride! Taylor Hicks
'American Idol' Alum Taylor Hicks Channels Elvis, Liberace For 'Grease' Gig
In 2006, when salt-and-pepper-pelted soul singer Taylor Hicks won the fifth season of "American Idol," he probably never imagined he'd be popping out of an ice-cream cone, singing "Beauty School Dropout."
Now Hicks is doing just that, playing the Teen Angel - a role made famous by Frankie Avalon in the 1978 film version of "Grease" - in the musical's latest Broadway revival. For his first foray into acting, it's not a bad gig, and Hicks is hoping it will open more doors for him down the line.
"It's a really cool part," he said. "The Teen Angel comes down and tells Frenchy she should put down her teasing comb and go back to high school. I've kind of channeled Elvis, a little Graham Parsons and Liberace, all at the same time, for this role. It was just a perfect fit and a way for me to experience the Broadway stage in a small dose, instead of a full role. I come out in the second act. I pop in from an ice-cream cone, in a blue rhinestone suit, and rock it out for a few minutes." Hicks said his Teen Angel is like none that has graced the stage before him, because he "Taylor-ized it."
According to Hicks, the "Grease" part wasn't his first offer. Earlier this year, he'd been asked to join the Broadway cast of "Hairspray," a gig he couldn't fit into his schedule. But being part of "Grease" has given him the itch to act again.
"Right now, I'm releasing a new record in the fall - hopefully - so [doing] this allows me to stay in the city, be in front of thousands and thousands of people for the next three months, and it allows me to reinvent myself, as a musician, an entertainer and possibly a Broadway actor," he said. "This is a nice way to get my feet wet in the acting field. Before, I was so entrenched in music - playing clubs and roadhouses when I was a kid - so Broadway was kind of an abstract thought for me. It's not now. It's real, and I enjoyed being directed from a theatrical aspect as opposed to a musical aspect. It's going to be an interesting road for me."
Hicks said that his fans, known as the "Soul Patrol," have been at each performance - so much so that during one of the shows, he looked down and spotted his face tattooed on a woman's body ("It wasn't anywhere revealing," he said).
Hicks' year has been full of ups and downs. It started off on a bad note, as Arista Records revealed they'd dropped Hicks from their roster after just one release. His 2006 self-titled effort has sold 702,000 copies to date, making it the worst-performing of all the "American Idol" champs' albums. But then, Hicks landed the "Grease" gig, and, with a new album to record, he's close to signing with a new label.
"I don't have a name for the album yet, but I do know that it's some of the best music that I've ever written, and from an artistic standpoint, this album, being in my control, has allowed me to really breathe as a songwriter," he said. "As an artist, you kind of understand the times and what your surroundings are and write from them. So there's some political undertones on the album. It's a serious time for us."
Hicks said he's not worried about the future, because he knows he has what it takes to sustain a career in music. "It would be scary if I didn't really believe that I was supposed to do this," he said. "For me, as a kid, I knew I was supposed to entertain and perform for folks. When you have that self-belief and inner-determination, you understand there are peaks and valleys in this business, and you just keep working at it. You show up to work, whether it's 25 people at a Steak & Ale, or Wembley Stadium and there's 500,000 people. If you keep working, and you're good to people, you'll be blessed."
Despite the poor sales, Hicks said he's still proud of his debut album. "As many songs as were thrown at me in the 10 minutes I had to choose them, I kept a good guard up, because I knew my artistic guard would allow people to say that I really took the integrity to keep my art," he said. "I've been working 15 years to make it in this business. I didn't want to not make it anymore. I'm proud of that record. I just wish we would have had more time to record it, but I'm proud of it. That's key." MTV News (click MTV for video) By Chris Harris, with reporting by Jim Cantiello
Taylor sets his sights on a new project! Soul man TAYLOR HICKS is tackling a new role. The former "American Idol" is joining the Broadway cast of Grease on June 6, reports the Associated Press.
Hicks is set to play Teen Angel in the infamously popular musical, saying, he plans to add "soulful flavor" to his performance of "Beauty School Dropout."
The country crooner spoke to the AP saying, "It's a big number, and, you know, I've made some pretty grand entrances before .... And this one is probably the grandest entrance I've made in my career."
Taylor Hicks @ Planet Hollywood
video capture: DeeDee
“The soul takes flight to a world that is invisible, and there arriving she is sure of bliss and forever dwells in paradise.”
"American Idol" winner Taylor Hicks gets in some practice putts at the Winged Foot Golf Club during Autism Speaks' annual New York Celebrity Golf Challenge fundraiser. (Joe Larese/The Journal News)
The New York Post
10th Annual NY Celebrity Golf Challenge June 16, 2008
Taylor Hicks, Nick Gregory, Don Criqui and Gloria Reuben among those expected at Winged Foot Golf Club (Mamaroneck) for today's Autism Speaks celebrity golf fundraiser.
This much anticipated annual event will continue to build on its impressive fundraising record which garnered $1,200,000 in 2007 for the mission of Autism Speaks.
PEOPLE.COM - TAYLOR HICKS ADMITS ...
Taylor Hicks is used to being the object of adoring fans – but when the Jonas Brothers made a TV appearance in New York, the American Idol swapped roles.
Hicks, who is currently starring in Grease on Broadway, couldn't resist partaking in Jonas Brothers mania with thousands of other fans outside of the Live With Regis & Kelly studios in New York City Thursday morning, he told PEOPLE.
"Once I arrived and saw all the Jonas Brothers fans, I got in on the screaming. We were all having a great time out there," said Hicks, who grabbed a sign from a fan and proudly held it up when the band arrived for the show.
"We were all just being fans and that's a cool thing." Asked if he's really a true fan, he told PEOPLE "I am!" "What they do is awesome because it gets kids into music," said Hicks who was at the ABC studio to tape a performance of "Beauty School Dropout" for the show's Broadway Week celebration, to air on Friday.
"They are a classy act," he added, noting that Nick is his favorite Jonas Brother because "he's the leader of the band." Sadly, Hicks didn't get to bond with the guys. "I just saw them in passing. They’ve got some pretty heavy security."
In addition to starring on Broadway, Hicks is busy recording his second album, which he hopes to release in the fall. "I love New York. I'm working on Broadway and it’s a great way for me to get my feet wet in acting and a great way to season yourself as a performer," he said.
"I've been able to breathe more as a songwriter, having the time and being able to find the right songs."
Boots, Blues and BBQ
A Soulful Night On The Farm
Boot, Blues, and BBQ with Taylor Hicks a Benefit for Hannah Home Shelby (A Ministry of The King’s Ranch and Hannah Homes) Saturday, May 10th Presented by Governor and Mrs. Riley
Hannah Homes provide long term shelters for women, and women with children, who are fleeing domestic violence.
This Christ-centered home provides free housing, food, clothing, transportation, counseling, parenting classes, dometic violence classes and a host of other services to aid residents on their journeys toward healing and wholeness.
"We've probably all called Hannah Home to come get some stuff from us at one point in time," says Taylor Hicks - musical guest for the fundraising event.
"It's a great cause ... and I'm wearing the old boots, and got some blues, and I just had some barbecue."
Taylor Hicks escorted Alabama's first lady Patsy Riley, as the Governor was on crutches and unable to attend.
What's Going On
Taylor Hicks joins Tony and Jay on the Opening Drive, 100.5 JOX, The Sports Monster, to talk about singing the National Anthem at Talladega and his new album.
From 'Heart Full Of Soul' Taylor Hick's Inspirational Memoir
"Singing is all about conveying emotion and stirring something in others ... and that happens only if the message you're sharing is coming from the heart and soul."
~ Taylor Hicks ~
Taylor Hicks @ Talladega
NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Talladega Super Speedway April 27, 2008
Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind
Taylor Hicks Donates Autographed Harmonica for 23rd Annual Event TALLADEGA, AL
April 25th @ the International Motorsports Hall of Fame SPEED Channel Dome at the Talladega Superspeedway.
Alabama’s own soulful singer/songwriter and 2006 American Idol winner, Taylor Hicks, is supporting the Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind by donating an autographed harmonica for the upcoming live auction at this year’s Race Fever.
Autographed during the 2008 Alabama Music Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and Award Show where Hicks received the 2008 America’s Music Award, this “Taylor-made” item is sure to “Make You Proud” when you “Take it to the Streets”.
2008 Kentucky Derby 'Grand Gala' Celebrities
Taylor Hicks, Michael Jordan, Chris Tucker and Gabrielle Union Photos by AP
Alabama Hall Of Fame
Taylor Hicks' ~ "Jailhouse Rock" Purple Velvet Jacket
Alabama Music Hall Of Fame
2008 America's Music Award Winner Taylor Hicks
Shriners Hospitals For Children
A Public Service Announcement
for Shriner's Hospitals for Children from Taylor Hicks
(video courtesy of Shriners Hospitals, The Taylor Hicks Community and Taylor's Angels)
NBA All Star Weekend
From Yahoo Sports NEW ORLEANS - Februrary 15, 2008 Actor Seth Gilliam and singer Taylor Hicks help out in the Fairmont Neighborhood during the NBA Day of Service In New Orleans for Habitat For Humanity.
2008 Children's Miracle Network Celebration
Photo: Taylor Hicks was joined on stage by children from across the country who are champions in fighting life threatening illnesses at the 2008 Children's Miracle Network Celebration in Orlando.
The Heart And Soul Of Palm Night
Taylor Hicks rocked Palm Night, the January 26th fundraiser for the Family Center at the Palm restaurant. One of Charlotte's oldest and most respected child abuse prevention agencies, The Family Center is the region's leading provider of therapeutic, educational and preventative services to children and families.
McDonald's NBA All Star Celebrity Game
photo credits: Evancol
Opportunity
You never know when it will knock. My big opportunity came during an audition in Birmingham, Alabama. I walked through that door and when I came out, I had the opportunity of a lifetime.
We probably walk through a million doorways in our lives – some more important than others. Some of those doors lead to opportunities that are beyond our imagination.
I believe your home should represent your outlook on life. The front door to your house leaves a strong impression on guests. My front door is a symbol and it says when you enter my home, you are entering a place that is very special.
I’ve teamed up with Harmony Doors to create a series of distinctive doors designs inspired by the same influences that have shaped my music.
All net proceeds generated by the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, supported by the Chrysler Corporation, are distributed to the Eisenhower Medical Center and 40 other charities.
Hicks Gets Slick by Neil Ray Ramos Manila Standard Today - Philippines 1/18/08 Just like when he slowly but surely won over many to his cause during the fifth season of the popular TV singing contest, American Idol, Taylor Hicks broke stereotypes and exceeded expectations when he flew in recently for a short visit and to perform in several gigs.
Once described as “the least likely Idol,” owing to the fact that he looked very much as tubby (and with the same salt and pepper hair) as Jay Leno, Hicks was surprisingly fit and trim, and is now more comparable to George Clooney (the other famous guy with the same salt and pepper hair) rather than the obese comedian/TV host—and quite amicable to boot.
Clad in black coat and jeans and brandishing his trademark harmonica, Hicks, was as candid as he was accommodating during the press conference held answering every question with typical flair.
Asked what he knew about the Philippines prior to coming over, the singer said that “I knew from friends that the Filipinos are very musical in that you guys love dancing and singing.” He also said that friends told him that the Philippines is “the place to be if you want (to pursue) a career in singing.”
Well, if Hicks knew a thing or two about the country, most of those who came to the meet-and-greet session seemed to know a lot about him, mentioning intricacies associated with the singer like the Ray Charles Statuette he always travels with (yes, it was with him) and screaming “Soul Patrol” (a term of endearment for Hicks fans and supporters).
What's Going On
Taylor Hicks' Sirius Radio interview from Graceland
'Idol' Sings The Blues In Manila By Fran Katigbak Philippine Daily Inquirer 01/01/2008
It’s not easy singin’ the blues to an audience whose daily dose of music comes from skinny teenyboppers, booty-shaking divas and bling-clad “boys from the ’hood.” Not if you are gray-haired and inclined to play the harmonica or if your dancing looks drug-induced. But just as he defied pop stereotypes when he won “American Idol” Season 5, soul singer Taylor Hicks also proved it pays to stay true to his style and brand of music. Filipino fans, even those as young as 6, watched the 31-year-old artist in a series of shows recently sponsored by the Ayala Malls in Manila. At the show in TriNoma, Hicks was in his element singing tracks from his self-titled album as well as songs he composed early in his career. Of course, not to be missed were the Alabama native’s harmonica-playing and the manic, footloose moves that became his trademark on “AI.” Article continued here ...
God's Bouquet You must bloom where you are planted in the garden we call life, and bring some special beauty to each corner where there's strife. Perhaps you're but a dandelion, wishing you were a rose, yet in this place of growing things, you're the one God chose. It's up to you to finish what the Good Lord has begun, by growing just the way you should and face the rising sun. There's room for you, if you but choose, in a glorious array ... Of beauty from God's garden, that he'll add to his bouquet.
