The Ripple Effect of Taylor Hicks

Humankind has not woven the web of life.
We are but one thread within it.
Whatever we do to the web, we do to ourselves.
All things are bound together.
All things connect.
~ Chief Seattle, 1854 ~

"Like the ripples in a pond, the work of one man, spreads out and touches the lives of others" is part of the quote that represents the Taylor Hicks My Idol blog spot.

It is simply amazing, to even me sometimes, how so many things connect back to Taylor Hicks. It is a ripple effect that evolves into ever widening and connecting circles, much like the effect you would see upon tossing a stone into the water, or in our case here, 'The Pond'.

I have often been asked where the inspiration comes from for the videos I have created, for example Taylor Hicks' "Places I've Been". Sometimes it is a single photo that sparks my thoughts, sometimes the inspiration is triggered by words. Words that keep coming up for several days at a time ... perhaps in a different context ... but inside each context there lies a similarity. My mind simply keeps following the connections.

This is what happened to me with the word 'soundtrack'.
I started with "Let's Spend the Night Together" which Karin linked to "Just Once" in her 'Shades of American Idol Season 5' blog .. and then I went a step further and linked my comment of Taylor Hicks' "Just Once" to being an excellent choice for a soundtrack.

Taking the connections she made between the songs a couple steps further, my mind connected the two love songs and came up with "Just Once Let's Spend The Night Together".
(Lol it could have been the soundtrack for 'My Best Friend's Wedding')
Which eventually brought me to Elton John's soundtrack from the movie 'Friends', "Seasons".

I've just finished another love story video, and while it is not the music of Taylor Hicks, it does tie into today's blog. My new video is a soundtrack from the 1971 obscure movie 'Friends' titled "Seasons" by Elton John.

Lyrics:
For our world, the circle turns again
Throughout the year we've seen the seasons change
It's meant a lot to me to start anew
Oh the winter's cold but I'm so warm with you

Out there there's not a sound to be heard
And the seasons seem to sleep upon their words
As the waters freeze up with the summer's end

Oh it's funny how young lovers start as friends
Yes it's funny how young lovers start as friends
~ Elton John ~

The lyrics of "Seasons", specifically certain words, as well as some of the images I used to depict the story, caused my thoughts to enter another connecting circle.

The image I used above to illustrate The Seasons is of seasons encased in bubbles, which brought to my mind 'The Grey Haired Boy In The Bubble' ... the first chapter in Taylor Hicks' 'Heart Full Of Soul'.

The words "the circle turns again" reminded me of when Taylor Hicks sat in with Willie Nelson to perform "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" at the Red Rocks Amphitheater, and of the first time I heard Taylor sing "Will We Go Round In Circles" with 'Little Memphis Blues'.

I was also reminded of the story Taylor Hicks shared in 'Heart Full of Soul' of what the song "Will The Circle Be Unbroken" meant to him upon the deaths of his close friends. Of how he talked about the book 'The Seat of the Soul' which uses quantum physics to show that we're all connected on a deeper level.

"There is no single way to experience intuition. It is different for everyone...Some people have hunches. Some get ideas. Some people hear music, and others see pictures. Some people get sensations, like the feeling of a crisp winter day. Others hear words."
~ Gary Zukov, Soul Stories ~

Speaking of Soul Stories, I wanted to share here the most recent comment I received from a poster in Greece on my Taylor Hicks "Places I've Been" video ...
"It have soul inside, this song have soul ..."
"Places I've Been" has been travelling around the world, which brings to my mind the quote about Taylor Hicks' music "Changing the world one soul at a time".

I hope that you have been able to follow my thought process, lol, sometimes even I can't figure out how I got to a particular place. It's a matter of connecting the dots to form circles which then ripple into other circles.


"Seasons" by Elton John and Bernie Taupin




Today's cup:
"The ability to relate and to connect, sometimes in odd and yet striking fashion, lies at the very heart of any creative use of the mind, no matter in what field or discipline."
~ George J. Seidel ~

The Results Are In, Did Sebastian Bring It On Home?

From Canada's National Post
THE AMPERSAND
by Sarah Millar
July 31, 2008

Talking With Sebastian Pigott
Sebastian Pigott’s voice is a little hoarse, but there is no mistaking his enthusiasm the morning after he was the third member of the Top 10 to be eliminated from Canadian Idol.
In fact when asked how he is, he says he’s “just golden.”

Pigott explained there is ultimately a bit of relief that comes with being eliminated from the Idol stage.

“You’ve been engulfed in the bubble and it’s all so intense for so long. So there’s a little bit of relief in it and you know, I didn’t expect to go all the way.
I feel like I went out on a good note”
Article from The Ampersand continued here



The results are in and Canada's voice is heard

Top 7, Enjoy the challenges that await you and may the best entertainer earn the coveted title of Canadian Idol.

A personal thought comes to mind that I would like to share with those who are reading this blog. While I do not intend to diminish the ultimate goal of the program, I have to wonder if achieving the title is all that counts?

From my perspective, each individual who has appeared on Canadian Idol or American Idol has had a remarkable opportunity to let their country know who they are.

The viewers may get frustrated when their favourite doesn't make it to the end, but I think that we have to appreciate that the format of these shows enables many hopeful artists to gain name recognition and publicity.

Sebastian, thank you for participating in Canadian Idol. It does take a great deal of courage to put yourself out there while you are pursuing your dream. You shared your charisma, talent and love of your craft.


You re-introduced Canadian viewers to the harmonica as an instrument to be valued, respected and enjoyed.

I am reminded of the old saying, "When one door closes, another one opens", but I suspect that in your case, there are many doors that will open for you in the future. Whether it is a on a stage or on the big screen, no matter which path you choose, we wish you success and happiness!






"For the vast majority of us, success is not something that's just going to happen.
It's something we've got to make happen.
So go ahead and make it happen."
~ Taylor Hicks ~








Did Sebastian Bring It On Home?
With Gavin Rossdale as the guest mentor, the Top 8 Canadian Idol contestants performed "unplugged"!

Sebastian Pigott's supporters didn't have to wait long to see if Sebastian would "bring it on home" this week. His was the first performance of the evening.


(click on photos to enlarge)
Sebastian listened intently to the advice that Gavin Rossdale gave to him. Gavin asked Sebastian to put more "pain" in his song as opposed to bravado, because it would show a vulnerable side to him.



Sebastian chose to perform Little Richard's version of "Lucille".



When I listened to the video carefully, I could hear the excitement in the audience when Sebastian started to play the harmonica!

I love the harmonica being added to a song. When Taylor Hicks plays the harmonica, he becomes a "Pied Piper" and, for me, the music becomes infused with soul. It is one of the many reasons I support Taylor's music and why I am a "resident" of The Pond.



"I fell totally and passionately in love with that harmonica.
Right from the point I purchased it, that instrument and I became inseparable."
Taylor Hicks ~ 'Heart Full of Soul'

Sebastian succeeded in "courting" three of the four judges this week. Zach, in true Simon Cowell mode, was not as appreciative of Sebastian's performance; however, overall, I think that Sebastian was more than pleased with the "judgement" this week.



The question now is did Sebastian bring enough home to stay another week? Canada decides tonight!



Today's cup:

"In music the passions enjoy themselves."
~ Friedrich Nietzsche ~

Christmas in July

Taylor Hicks ~ AOL Music Sessions
(click photo to enlarge)

Santa's already busy making his lists and checking them twice.
What's on your list this year?


We're celebrating Christmas in July here at 'The Pond' because it's a perfect opportunity to once again put the idea out there that we would love to have a Christmas CD from Taylor Hicks.
Taylor are you listening?
We not only want that new CD promised in the Fall ... a Holiday CD would be a great present ... hint hint!

During the summer months as the weather becomes increasingly warm (hot) some people's thoughts turn to the atmosphere of cooler temps and the holiday spirit of Christmas time.

'Christmas In Washington' was one of the showcased videos in our Taylor Hicks Goes To Washington blog and today's showcased videos are from Taylor Hicks AOL Sessions.

Speaking of videos, so how do you like my new video player in my side-bar?
I think the sound is extraordinay and I'm really enjoying it myself!
I listen to the crowd roaring at Taylor's Hagerstown concert and it really makes me yearn even more for Taylor to be on tour again.
I sure hope a tour is announced before I have to add a
Taylor Hicks Tour to my Christmas Wish list ... AGAIN
(Don't forget to pause the video player in the side-bar before you press play on the videos below!)

First up is his "White Christmas", a soulful hip rendition that he also performed for the 2006 'Christmas From Rockefeller Center', as well as at a special private performance for CBS News.
Videos for both of those performances can be found on You Tube, but for some unknown reason (to me) you'll not find there ...
his AOL Sessions videos.

video: Taylor Hicks ~ "White Christmas"



Taylor's AOL Session videos were fabulous and they are jewels in our treasure trove of gifts he has already given us.
I'm not sure how much longer it will be before we have new treasures from him to add to the chest, but in the meantime I intend to fully enjoy and share the cache we already have!




Next up ... is the rarely heard on tour ... "Dream Myself Awake".
Remember the sneak preview we had of this and the guessing game we all played of naming the song?



While not a Christmas video, I did do a Christmas blog titled 'Sweet Dreams Baby' about "Dream Myself Awake"which prompted me to include the video in our July XMAS celebration.
You can view here "Sweet Dreams Baby".

video: Taylor Hicks ~ "Dream Myself Awake"


To view additional video from Taylor Hicks' AOL Sessions click HERE





"Ah, Christmas in July, while it's really primarily a marketing tool, what a great excuse to throw a party!
Ready to party some more?
Just CLICK on the sidebar video player AGAIN ...
I personally guarantee you'll have sweet dreams!
Santa


Today's cup:



"Well I wish it could be Christmas everyday.
When the kids start singing and the band begins to play.
Oh I wish it could be Christmas everyday."

Taylor Hicks ~ "Early Works' Movin' On Up

"Early Works" by Taylor Hicks is back in the spotlight again today!

Yesterday word went out that Barnes and Noble still had "Early Works" available for preordering, and I posted a link to Barnes and Noble, as well as the info you see below.

You'll remember I said "Early Works" is showing as still available through Barnes and Noble for preorder as of 'now' ... key word being NOW!

Woo hoo ... look at the sales rank number NOW folks ... yesterday it said #297 ... today it is #8!



"Early Works"
by Taylor Hicks
CD
Details
Available for Pre-Order
This item will be available on August 12.
UPC: 015707987028 Original
Release Date: 2008 Catalog
No.: 79870
Label: WELK RECORDS
Sales Rank: 8





ANOTHER UPDATE ... 7/24/08
In the blink of an eye ... or in my case 40 winks ..... "Early Works" has performed yet another disappearing act ... this time from Barnes and Noble.



Stay tuned for the continuing saga of Taylor Hicks'
magical "Early Works" titled
Now You See It ... Now You Don't!
Well I always said his music was Magic!

Sebastian Survives To Compete Again

Tuesday, July 22nd would bring us the results we had been eagerly awaiting after the Rock & Roll performances from Monday evening's Canadian Idol.

I, for one, was looking forward to the end of this week because of some comments that I did not especially like and once again Ben continued to refer to the "rock and roll angels" as dead people:

"In an ironic twist, the Top 9 fought for their Idol lives by performing songs by dead rock stars", said Ben Mulroney. An 8 year old in my livingroom asked me "why does he keep saying "dead" people?".
Hello - Canadian Idol - it is not humourous to many of the viewers!

Depending on the results of this show, I had given some thought to drawing the curtains on Canadian Idol and declaring it "VSA" (Vital Signs Absent) on my television set.

Let the results roll in ...



The 3 with the least number of votes stand in anticipation.
This is one spotlight that no performer wants to stand in.



The long awaited moment arrives!



It appeared to me that Sebastian Pigott was aware that he could possibly be leaving the show this week. He looked very surprised that he had survived this week's judgement day.



Sebastian, your supporters came through for you. You have definitely made your alliance with many of the viewers. As you well know, next week, you will really need to "court" the judges with an outstanding performance.

We will now be seeing the "guest mentors" on subsequent shows. First up will be former Bush front man and recent solo artist Gavin Rossdale, who will coach the Top 9 for 'Unplugged' week. Rossdale, who is married to Gwen Stefani, will also perform live during the Top 9 Results show on Tuesday, July 29th.

It will be interesting to see what advice is offered to the Top 8 Contestants, and which ones will take the advice to heart!




"I realized I was playing a version of Survivor, and the alliance I most needed to form was with the viewers at home."
Taylor Hicks ~ 'Heart Full of Soul'


Today's cup:
"You can't tailor make the situations in your life,
but you can tailor make your attitudes to fit the situation."

Taylor Hicks "Early Works" Update

In the spotlight today is "Early Works" by Taylor Hicks!

From the Taylor Hicks Community ~ TaylorMadeOnline Blog
THE TAYLOR HICKS VERSION OF SUPPLY AND DEMAND
Amazon.com no longer has the Taylor Hicks Early Works CD listed as available.
What does this mean?
Click here to find out!

The release date of "Early Works" has also changed to August 12th ... it's an early release for "Early Works" :-)

"Early Works" is showing as still available through Barnes and Noble for preorder as of now, here is the link for Barnes and Noble




"Early Works"
by Taylor Hicks
CD
Details
Available for Pre-Order
This item will be available on August 12.
UPC: 015707987028
Original Release Date: 2008
Catalog No.: 79870
Label: WELK RECORDS
Sales Rank: 297




Today's cup from me is my guess for Taylor Hicks' BIG news/announcement:
Taylor will soon be appearing in the cast of 'All My Children'

Rock and Roll Heaven Week - Canadian Idol

Monday night's Canadian Idol show opened with Ben Mulroney welcoming the viewers and then Ben said:

"The Idols were allowed to sing any song they wanted
with just one condition. The original artist must be dead.
This is our Rock and Roll Heaven Week.
The Top 9 have made their choices and we "Googled" them just to make sure they were dead and they were."
Just prior to introducing Sebastian's performance, Ben then said: "Tonight, the Idols are unearthing some of the biggest hits by some of the deadest music stars of all time."

My blog today is primarily about Sebastian Pigott's journey, but I feel that I need to express my "personal" thoughts regarding the diplomacy of these remarks. I have no way of knowing whether the comments were Ben's personal comments or the words written by a writer, but as a viewer, I found them to be distasteful. Considering Ben's background, I expected that he would have been more tactful and "politically correct" in describing the purpose of this week.
In my mind, I wondered what a family member of one of these departed musicians might think as I found those comments to be very offensive.

This is a television show which is often viewed by families. Surely, there must be a better way to boost the ratings and provide a better role model for the younger viewers by giving the appropriate respect to those who have moved on to "Rock and Roll Heaven". Now, I feel much better expressing my thoughts so let's move on to what is really important.

Sebastian chose to perform "Love Me" an Elvis #2 hit on the charts in 1956.



I enjoyed the performance but once again, Sebastian really took some severe criticism from the judges.




Taylor Hicks ~ 'Heart Full of Soul'
"But while I'd always listen to the judges' comments and respond to their criticism as best I could, I was well aware they weren't my ultimate judges."

Did anyone notice that there was no mention about the style of microphone Sebastian chose to use? I watched the footage of the show again and he was the only contestant who used the style of microphone which realistically portrayed the time in which the song was originally performed. One would think that it might have been mentioned instead of the standard "you look good" comments.



The thought has also crossed my mind that Sebastian Pigott is a "blues and soul" music kind of guy which begs the question if perhaps the Canadian Idol show feels that his genre of music isn't going to be easily heard on the radio? Does it all come down to dollars and cents and that is why their comments, perhaps, were intended to sway the potential voters?


Taylor Hicks ~ 'Heart Full of Soul'
"My type of soul wasn't ultra-sexy hip-hop it was old-school soul...."
".... the songs from my album weren't having a particularly easy time on the radio so far. Not for the first time, I encountered resistance from people who were quick to question where exactly I fit in - if I fit anywhere at all."


Once again Sebastian made a dramatic entrance with the lights dimmed and I think his entrance shows that he does give a great deal of thought to how he is going to portray himself on television.



I am not so sure, though, that I saw the go get 'em' sparkle in Sebastian's eyes this week that I have seen on previous shows.



I am wondering about a couple of things. Did Sebastian have his heart in performing tonight? He had all the right moves but did "he" feel the song? I think at times he did.



One thing that I did notice though. There didn't seem to be as many camera close-up shots of him as there usually are so maybe this made it more difficult to really "see" him perform the song.

Does Sebastian miss his brother being on the show or is he finding that the concept of the show is too confining? In my opinion, it takes alot of courage to appear on this kind of show. To be judged week after week is part and parcel of being a part of it, but how many of us would actually be willing to put ourselves out there and do it?

When all is said and done, the ultimate decision belongs to the public. If participating in the show gets you to where "you" want to go, then it is worth the ride. Let's wait until tomorrow night to find out what the people have to say. Sebastian, once again, I think you remained true to yourself and there is nothing more that anyone can ask from you. Good for you and by the way, my fingers did the dialing!


'There's no electoral college on American Idol - simply the weekly will of the people."
Taylor Hicks ~ 'Heart Full of Soul'



Today's cup:


"Just because you look good, don't mean you feel good."
~ Elvis Presley ~

Shades of American Idol Season 5

"Here's one thing I've learned: I wasn't born to play arenas.
Everything I've learned about music is about making a connection, and at least for me, a giant arena is not the best place to make a connection.
Performing is a relationship between you and your audience, and in that relationship less can definitely be more.
Singing in an arena, it takes much longer to feel the energy of the crowd and feed off that energy.
That shared energy is what I hunger for.
So, if I had my dream in all its fine-tuned glory, it would be to play great theaters and clubs for the rest of my life."
~ Taylor Hicks from 'Heart Full of Soul' ~




(click to enlarge to full-screen size)

"I love blues and soul music. I love the honesty of it; the raw quality of it and the connection you get with the crowd.
That's why I love performing in smaller, intimate places."
~ Sebastian Pigott ~

As I am cruising along the road of this year's Canadian Idol, I can't help but reflect back on the journey of Taylor Hicks on American Idol Season 5. Taylor, too, had his fair or not so fair share of critical judgements.
In his book, 'Heart Full of Soul', when he reflected back to that time, Taylor has this to say about the Idol experience:

"It's also a whole lot of work, and you don't really know how the job is going to pay until it's over."
"In the end, all I ever tried to do was entertain people - that's what I did in the clubs, and that's what I did in those first months of 2006 for the millions who didn't want to leave the comfort of their living rooms.
When you're an entertainer, it's your great privilege to touch people's lives in a distant and yet seemingly personal way."

And, then there were 10 ...
Week 4, July 14, 2008, was the beginning of the Top 10 performances on Canadian Idol. As promised, Canadian Idol came through with more firsts. It started with a brand new set which should give the performers a lot of room to move around on.

The first contestant of the night was Drew Wright who performed his song while playing the drums. The judges said it was the first time that anyone had played the drums while singing. Adam Castelli's entrance onstage riding a motorcycle was another first on this show. The fact that there are only two female contestants in the Top 10 is another first.

This was David Bowie Week and since I have never been a huge Bowie fan, I found it somewhat difficult to appreciate this type of music. All of the contestants put their best efforts forward and some, more than others, received some harsh criticism from the judges.

Sebastian Pigott performed David Bowie's version of "Let's Spend the Night Together". (I must say that I always liked the original Rolling Stones' version of this song though.)

video: Sebastian Pigott ~ "Let's Spend the Night Together"


I loved the way Sebastian started the first part of the song and I would have been really happy if he had performed the entire song that way. In the first part of the song, he sang each word in an intimate and charismatic way. The audience certainly loved his performance, I liked it too!


(click to enlarge to full-screen size)

The judges, on the other hand, were, in my opinion, extremely harsh and critical of Sebastian's presentation of the song. Now, this is where I get confused since I am only a TV viewer and not a musician.

For a Blues and Soul man, wouldn't it be challenging to sing a David Bowie song? Aren't the contestants encouraged to make the song their own and be themselves?


(click to enlarge to full-screen size)


Sebastian stood there and took the criticism with a smile on his face and, at times, looked very perplexed. Sebastian was trying to understand what it was that they didn't like - what they were trying to say. I don't think he was really given a definitive answer and I have to wonder what the judges had for dinner because they were harshly critical of many of the contestants' performances, some just and some unfairly.

One of the things I like about Nashville Star is that the judges mentor the contestants week -to- week and they provide detailed feedback to Nashville Star contestants so that they can "build" the next "Star".

In all fairness, perhaps the Canadian Idol contestants do have the opportunity to have discussions with the judges after the show. If not, then perhaps both American Idol and Canadian Idol should take a page from the Nashville Star book. Sebastian was looking for constructive criticism and advice so that he could improve on Week 5 and he didn't get what he was looking for.





"Maybe the reason I like soul music so much is that is inspires with its pain.
The best artists, like Ray Charles, reach out and say,
"You're not alone, brother."
~ Taylor Hicks from 'Heart Full of Soul' ~


video: Taylor Hicks - "Just Once" - Love Songs Week


Personally, I loved the way that Taylor performed "Just Once" and he looked awesome too. Talk about pouring your heart and soul into a song. He did it that night and I still listen to the song today.
I still can't understand why the responses from the judges were so negative. It seemed to me as if they already knew what they were going to say about his performance before we had even heard his first note.


Today's Idol audiences are much more savvy when they "judge" the contestants and thank goodness, it is their fingers that will be doing the dialing this week.

Sebastian, you were "you" and stayed true to yourself.
For the record, I enjoyed your performance. You did the best you could with what you were given and I am sure that you will receive the support from your fans.


Today's cup:


"To be a true artist you have to play the way you feel - not the way others think you should feel."
~ Don Ellis ~

Step Into My Garden

Welcome to my world .... a place filled with color and serenity ...
a place to soothe your soul!

The Taylor Hicks My Idol blog spot is patterned after my gardens, I've filled it with color, lots of soul, with hints of blues everywhere, and given it the nickname 'The Pond'.
My name is 'Bloom' and as you wander down this page, you'll find that I have come by this name honestly.

I have often referred to one of my favorite quotes by Taylor Hicks in my blogs, I think it is quite ingenious, and I wonder if one day it will appear in famous quotes by Taylor Hicks.

"It's not the dirt I need to plant my musical flower"
Taylor was speaking in reference to the environment he found himself in after winning American Idol.
Thankfully that environment has now changed and we are eagerly awaiting a new release of his music, where his creativity is now free to be unleased!
Plus we have the release of his "Early Works" next month!

I've borrowed Taylor's term, Musical Flower, to introduce you to one of my other passions (yes, I really do have another passion besides Taylor).

These are photos of my garden taken over the last two years, along with some of my favorite garden poems and quotes.
They are my musical flower and I'll hope you'll enjoy your stroll thru my gardens as well as the beautifully soothing music provided by my old friend Bobby Militello!

Please note that some of the photos are very large and I didn't want to downsize them, just click on them to view the entire image.

Come with me take my hand
We'll walk in the garden's light
Peacefulness and scented air
With flowers to delight


Take the time to get away
Spend some time with me
Walking in the beauty of
Nature's love we see


Want to spend a little time
See that we are blest
Greatest things upon this earth
With colors brightly dressed


Feel the warm air drifting by
Sweetly kiss your face
Silence in the beauty of
Love we can embrace


Take time to walk with me
Such happiness to share
Flowers blooming all around
Sweet velvet everywhere


Need a place to get away
Leave the world outside
Take this time to find yourself
With garden loved supplied.

While walking in my garden,
I find such comfort and sweet peace.
I feel as if I'm standing at the threshhold
of my Master's feet.

So much grandeur;
so much beauty there,
I find, often, it becomes
my little house of prayer.

I commune with My Savior,
In Him, I find perfect rest;
As I look upon my garden,
I feel so very blessed.

I speak to the folded ears of the roses,
of all my cares and pain;
Like them, I need a blessing,
a refreshment from the showers and the rain.

I touch the fragile blossoms,
feel their softness at my fingertips;
My spirit is renewed,
at the nourishment that God gives.

While walking in my garden,
I find such comfort and sweet peace.
I feel as if I'm standing at the threshhold,
of my Master's feet.
© Sandra Lewis Pringle

A Garden Lives within our soul,
A secret place so dear,
A quaint and lovely part of earth
That brings us beauty here.
The blossoms catch the morning sun,
The air is fresh and sweet,
At evening tide the shadows fall
When day is then complete.


A garden is a garden spot
Where comfort fills our heart,
A peaceful place where quiet dwells
As each new day does start.
There's loveliness and tender faith,
As raindrops softly fall,
To bless each wondrous growing things,
As nature then stands tall.


A fragrance fills this quiet spot
With peaceful, tender bliss,
Where God looks down on each small plant
And sends an angel's kiss.
To walk and dream 'neath cotton clouds,
To feel the warmth of Spring,
And gently tuck the world away
As robins nest and sing.

There's promise in the hope we find
As seasons come and go.
The laughter of the Summer breeze,
The touch of Winter snow,
A miracle - a friendship real,
The smile that loving gives,
While every heart finds blessedness
Because a garden lives.
©1997 Garnett Ann Schultz




Gardens... should be like lovely, well-shaped girls:
all curves, secret corners, unexpected deviations,
seductive surprises and then still more curves.
~ H.E. Bates, A Love of Flowers ~










Flowers are the sweetest things God ever made,
and forgot to put a soul into.
~ Henry Beecher (1858) ~


I saw a butterfly today,
the color of the sun.
It made the garden dance for joy,
the flowers, every one.
It chased the wind's
bright fairy lips.
It hovered near a tree.
Sometimes it seemed
the butterfly was
writing poems for me.





As a flower in the garden
Bending toward the sun,
Unfolds it's tiny petals
One, by one, by one...
So faith expands it's beauty
Until at last it grows
Into life's lasting flower...
The heart's fair perfect rose.












There's little risk in becoming overly proud of one's garden,
because gardening by its very nature is humbling.
It has a way of keeping you on your knees.







If you'd like to view more garden photos or to inquire as to the name of a specific plant, let me know by leaving a comment here.
Though I do have a confession to make .... I'm going to have to dig deep into my fuzzy memory bank and unearth the name for you, I have so many varieties that through the years I've forgotten what exactly I do have!




Today's cup:
“Man should hear a little music,
read a little poetry,
and see a fine picture every day of his life,
in order that worldly cares may not obliterate
the sense of the beautiful implanted in the human soul.”
~Johann Wolfgang Goethe~





Music provided by Bobby Militello,
The Dave Brubeck Quartet

BLUES, SOUL AND A HARMONICA

In a recent interview with Jim Cantiello from MTV News, Taylor Hicks and Jim were discussing Taylor’s role as Teen Angel in the Broadway production of Grease.

“Now we're packing the place out.
It's sold-out every night, and I get to play a little harmonica, which is cool.
I couldn't do that on 'Idol.'
That wasn't the year where you could play instruments."
~Taylor Hicks ~

Things have now changed on Idol and more specifically on Canadian Idol which is the purpose of this blog.

Season 6 of Canadian Idol began a few weeks ago and it promises to be a season of many firsts! This year, the show started with the Top 24 Contestants instead of 22 Contestants because the judges felt that there was so much talent this season.
For the very first time, we have two brothers who are competing independently.
I am referring to Oliver and Sebastian Pigott.
They sing soulful, bluesy music.


Oliver and Sebastian Pigott's Auditions

If you listened closely, you heard one of the judges say “Holy James Dean” after Sebastian performed.
I must confess that I didn’t notice the comment until tonight.
I have been discussing the Pigott Brothers with Allyn, who produces the most superb Taylor Hicks graphic art, as many of us know.
After seeing Sebastian, she immediately sent this to me (click to enlarge photo).



I don’t think that Canada has noticed this yet but Sebastian definitely has an uncanny resemblance to James Dean.

On Tuesday, July 8th, I had one of those "Taylor Hicks moments" after one of the Pigott brothers performed.
This was the Top 16 week and by Wednesday, we would have our Top 10 Contestants.
For the first time since Taylor Hicks won Season 5 on American Idol, I found myself jumping off of the sofa in sheer joy!

Oliver Pigott performed a Bill Withers’ hit, "Lean on Me", right before his brother stepped up to the microphone.


Oliver Pigott - "Lean On Me"


Immediately following Oliver, Sebastian was introduced and he would perform a Sam Cooke song, "Bring It On Home To Me".
Does anyone else see a ‘trend’ here?

Sebastian's entrance to the stage, for me, was a Bublé-like entrance - intriguing for me since Michael is another favourite artist of mine!
A great read - So Different and Yet - Bublé and Hicks




Sebastian Pigott - "Bring it on Home to Me"


A couple of friends of mine called immediately after the performance because they, too, are fans of Taylor Hicks. Like me, the harmonica reminded them of many of Taylor’s performances since AI.

Comments from one of the judges, Sass Jordan, got me thinking.
She said “you are probably one of the smartest, cleverest performers that I have ever seen”.

Did the Pigott Brothers read Taylor’s book, 'Heart Full of Soul' before the CI competition?
It is probably a question that I will never know the answer to, but it is definitely food for thought.

The producers of the show knew that Canada was very interested in the Pigott Brothers and with only one seat left on the Final 10, we had to wait until the very end of the show to find out which one would make it.

"And, the 10th Finalist is .... "


My personal opinion is that Oliver, too, should have made it to the Top 10. You can see his previous performances on YouTube. In the meantime, I wish him the best of luck as he continues along the path of soul and blues music.

Sebastian wore a suit for the performance; he made a dramatic entrance and he has so much charisma on stage. The music flows through his veins before the words of the song come out of his mouth.
There are other contestants who are going to give Sebastian a good run for his money and it will be an interesting trip this season on Canadian Idol. I hope that he continues to play the harmonica because it gives him a distinct advantage.

To be reminded of the magical music of Taylor Hicks on AI Season 5 was absolutely the best experience I have had watching any Idol show in a long time!



I really think that it is fabulous that the harmonica is becoming
more visible.
I can't help but think how awesome it would have been if only Taylor had been able to play it during his stint on AI.





Today's cup:
"Because everything we say and do is the length and shadow of our own souls, our influence is determined by the quality of our being."

Broadway Scoop From Kathy Lee and Hoda

FROM MSNBC
July 10, 2008

Hoda and Kathie Lee talk Broadway
TODAY’s Hoda Kotb and Kathie Lee Gifford dish on the day’s hot topics including the most recent Broadway play they saw GREASE!
(photo: Hoda and Kathy Lee with Taylor Hicks, Laura Osnes, Max Crumm and Allison Fischer from the cast of GREASE)

Taylor Hicks' electrifying performance stole the show and the audience went nutso when he pulled out his harmonica and started playing ...

My video capture of Kathy Lee and Hoda's Broadway scoop!
It was another 'two scoops please' day at The Pond!




Todays's cup:
Like the ripples in a pond, the work of one man can spread out and touch the lives of others.

MTV Goes Back Stage With Taylor Hicks

We catch up with the season-five "American Idol" champ backstage at the musical's latest Broadway revival.
video from MTV News

"I started doing seances to channel Elvis"

• MTV
• Music Videos
• MTV Shows
• Entertainment News

'American Idol' Alum Taylor Hicks Channels Elvis, Liberace For 'Grease' Gig


Here is a video capture for those unable to view the MTV site video, like my Canadian friends!
Karin I did it, lol aren't you proud of me :-)
(whoops, I missed some of it, well not bad for my 1st try lol)

From MTV News
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."

To prepare for the role, he claims he "started doing séances to channel Elvis, and he told me that I needed to wear a midnight-blue, rhinestone-studded suit, and that's what happened. Now we're packing the place out. It's sold-out every night, and I get to play a little harmonica, which is cool. I couldn't do that on 'Idol.' That wasn't the year where you could play instruments."
(article continued in my sidebar)

MTV News
By Chris Harris, with reporting by Jim Cantiello


Sweet two videos from MTV in one day, plus two great articles, and I finally got to see Taylor Hicks' Angel Wings!

"I Don't Want To Jinx It"


Who Is Taylor Hicks’ Mystery ‘Megastar’
Published by MTV News
Thursday, July 10, 2008
By Garth Bardsley

On Tuesday night, we swung around the corner from our Times Square offices to the Brooks Atkinson Theatre, where “American Idol” season-five champ Taylor Hicks is cutting his teeth on Broadway, playing the part of the Teen Angel in the most recent revival of “Grease.”

The silver-haired “Soul Patrol” leader gave us a tour around the theater, which is actually a bit of a reality-show mecca. Besides Hicks, the show’s two leads, Max Crumm (Danny) and Laura Osnes (Sandy) were found via the little-watched NBC show “You’re the One That I Want.” And then there’s Cody Green, who won Bravo’s even littler-watched “Step It Up and Dance” while a member of the Grease ensemble.

Hicks is also writing lots of songs, mainly for his own use on his sophomore album coming out in the fall. But he spilled the beans that a certain “megastar” has one of his songs on hold to possibly record. He wouldn’t say who, but he did let it drop that the singer is a female.

Any guesses?
Is Tina Turner gonna rock on a harmonica-filled blues tune penned by Hicks?
Whitney Houston?
Grace Jones???

Awesome With A Capital A

Earlier today Taylor Hicks joined My FOX NY reporter Julie Chang, to talk about his current gig on Broadway in GREASE ... and what we might expect to see coming from him in the next few months.

Taylor also hinted at ... another big surprise forthcoming ... soon ?!?


Julie: "What's it been like?"
Taylor: "Awesome with a capital A baby!"

Kirsten Wyatt, who plays the part of Frenchy, also joined Taylor on the set today as he sang "Beauty School Dropout", it was nice to see her again ... pretty lady!

Here is the interview along with Taylor and Kirsten performing "Beauty School Dropout"!
Thanks Karin for the video capture, what would I ever do without you, lol don't want to know!




I of course visited the MYFOX NY website as I was intrigued by Julie Chang and I checked out her bio, now I know why I was intrigued, she has a fascinating background! click here to read Julie's bio.



Taylor Hicks is instantly recognizable by his voice, his looks, and his heavenly harp!
In 2006 he became a household name, and since then he's had to hide his beautiful silver hair under a hat if he wishes to go unnoticed.
Now I don't know if it's a myth or not, but my dad always told me the reason he lost his hair was because he wore a hat too much.
Taylor take off those hats and let your hair shine, you are still recognized ... even with a hat on!

Speaking of being recognizable .... reminds me of a cute story that Taylor shared in Heart Full Of Soul, about trying to cold-call his way into a new gig for the Taylor Hicks Band, WAY back before going on to become America's 2006 American Idol.

It's a cross between What's My Line, and To Tell The Truth, lol wonder if either of those are still around!

"I'd put on my most professional music-industry voice and start pitching.
My end of the conversation would go something like this:

Good afternoon, I'm calling you today about a really great young group down here in Birmingham.
They're called the Taylor Hicks Band ... That's H-I-C-K-S.
These guys are really heating up all over the place now.
You might know some of the boys from their old bands, Passing Through or maybe Fletch Lives ....
You haven't huh?
Well the lead singer, he's a helluva front man, and the guy plays some mean harmonica too.
The whole band is packed with kick-ass players.
You've got to hear 'em to believe them ... Their sound?
I'd have to say that they're a little bit of everything you've ever loved and a whole lot of fun to watch ...
What kind of material do they do?
They do all sorts of great old-school soul covers and some rocking originals too.
Heck, for the right price they'll probably do your laundry as well.
And since we're talking price now, why don't we do some business right now? ....

What's my name?
Sir, my name is Taylor Hicks, H-I-C-K-S."


"One of the best things people can have up their sleeve is a funny bone"

Taylor Hicks Goes To Washington

This land is your land, this land is my land
From California to the New York Island
It's a Soul Thing all across America!
God Bless America, God Bless Our Troops!

What better place could there be to celebrate our Nation's Birthday than in it's Capitol!
Hundreds of thousands were on hand to join in the celebration, while millions of viewers at home were treated to a spectacular concert on the Capital lawn and magnificent fireworks via PBS!
This is cool - click here for a panoramic view!

From The Washington Post:
Soprano Harolyn Blackwell, a D.C. native, opened the concert with "The Star-Spangled Banner," and American Idol winner Taylor Hicks electrified the crowd with a jazzed-up rendition of "This Land Is Your Land."

Earlier today Taylor Hicks, the leader of the Soul Patrol and winner of Season 5 American Idol, joined CNN Live from Washington to give us a sneak peak of his rehearsal for his Capital 4Th Concert and to talk about what an honor it was to perform for the big Birthday bash in Washington!

My thanks to my Canadian friend and partner Karin for capturing today's auspicious events on video!
Beginning with his CNN interview that took place just hours before the concert and then footage of his performances of "Soul Thing", "Dancing In The Dark" and "This Land Is Your Land" from the Capital 4Th concert.

I've invited Karin to share her thoughts as a Taylor Hicks Canadian supporter here today.
Actually I've invited her to write today's blog, to give us a little different perspective.

Taylor Hicks didn't just reach across America today, his message of freedom and democracy and his thank you to our servicemen and women travelled round the world, as did his powerful performance!



I was delighted to catch this interview live today, thanks to Karin who gave me a heads up only minutes before it aired.
Taylor's Southern charm and beautiful smile were in full force along with his sense of humor!
It was a ***** interview!



In the meantime here is a reminder of another auspicious event that occurred in Washington, Taylor Hicks' soulfully spectacular performance for the 2006 Christmas In Washington Special broadcast on TNT!


video capture: Evancol
(Thank You!)


Here we go ... Taylor Hicks Goes To Washington Part 2!!!



Man Taylor's feet were flying as fast as the fingers of Jerry Lee Lewis and I loved Jimmy Smit's comment that Taylor's performance won him American Idol all over again!







Karin ... this spot is yours, lol ... did I leave enough room!


Today was an ordinary day for me in Canada.
As many of you are aware, Canada's celebrations took place on July 1st.
During these past two years, I have come to "know" some wonderful American friends through following the journey of Taylor Hicks so I knew that everyone was very excited about today's July 4th activities.
I had to get up very early this morning.
It was a beautiful day here and for me, I am often going to bed when the birds start chirping but this morning, I heard them singing their little hearts out when I woke up.
They always start each day off with a song and I often wonder if we humans had the same attitude, our days would also begin with anticipation of the adventures and discoveries that await us as the day unfolds.
Little did I know what the day was going to bring.
I was prepared for the Capitol Fourth show but I must admit that I was taken by surprise when I learned that Taylor was going to be interviewed on CNN in the afternoon.

It has been quite a while since Taylor has been seen singing on stage in concert. Many have seen Taylor in Grease and have been sharing the good news about his success on Broadway.
One only has to read all of the Google Alerts that have been coming through lately to know that Taylor's summer "gig" on Broadway has been successful.
The anticipation has been building amongst the various fan boards during the past few weeks about his appearance on PBS' Capitol Fourth show.

I gathered my young Taylor Hicks' fans in front of the TV.
They had to make a choice - go shopping with their Mother or stay with me to watch Taylor.
Needless to say, I have successfully groomed them and they anxiously sat in front of the television to watch Taylor..
I was very surprised that we would even be able to see the performance in Canada as it unfolded so it was a wonderful treat for us.
They asked what songs Taylor was going to sing and when I told them, they knew two of the three songs.
As a matter of fact, they just sang right along with Taylor as he belted out "This Land is Your Land.

We watched Huey Lewis and you know, I did not realize that he, too, played the harmonica.
Of course, we are biased and we came to the conclusion that as great as he was, he was not Taylor playing that little beauty!

All too quickly it was over but not without a telephone call from my mother in the middle of Taylor's performance who wanted to ensure that my television set was on! Taylor exploded on stage and didn't stop until the last note was sung!
He brought huge smiles to our faces and we moved and grooved to each and every beat to his songs.

I have always admired the patriotism shown by my American neighbours.
We are patriotic in Canada too, don't get me wrong but I am often reminded of some trips south of the border where I have often seen the American flag flying freely on every second or third house on the street.
The folks in Washington got it right today.
They put together a wonderful guest list of performers who really did put on a fantastic concert.

Freedom - sometimes a word that is taken for granted but sadly, we all know that not everyone shares the liberties afforded to the citizens of the United States and Canada as well as other democratic countries.

Taylor did us proud with his performance!
He may be a "Teen Angel" for now but I couldn't help wondering what was going through his mind as he stepped onto the stage in front of so many people.
He gave a wonderful interview today on CNN and he deserves the many accolades that have come his way lately or should I say "finally".
As I have said before to Bloom, friendship knows no borders and I suppose you can say the same thing about "fanship" too.
I am now back to the beginning of my thoughts - the chirping birds which I am sure I am going to hear very soon.
I wonder when you have a song in your heart, like Taylor seems to have, if he, too, wakes up most days wondering what will come his way and change his life?
I think those birds have a huge lesson to teach us.
Don't sweat the small stuff; enjoy the moments and celebrate the good things we have in our lives!
It must be a great way to start a day!

Thanks, Bloom for the opportunity to share my ramblings.
I do appreciate "The Pond" more than you know where there are not only birds but many butterflies who have the freedom to roam where they want to.

KarinP


Today's cup:
"Freedom is the oxygen of the soul.
Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions,
the spirit of men ... and so it must be
daily earned and refreshed -
else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots,
it will wither and die."