Taylor Hicks Did Go "The Distance"

“I think a common theme on a lot of records that you hear today is that all the tracks sound like the first song that you hear on the CD, and the voice of the artist is really kind of secondary in the majority of records,” Hicks said. “I think on this particular record, my voice is a common thread, and my love for different styles of music is really apparent. I think that’s why Climie was such a wonderful producer to work with. He was able to facilitate the music on the record and mold it into the shape of my vision. Working with him was very beneficial to this project.”
~Songwriters Universe Magazine Interview by Jason Blasco~

Bloom and I were very fortunate to catch the KOL Listening Party for 'The Distance' while it was posted online. We are hoping that the preview will once again be available on March 2nd. If you have not yet heard a preview of Taylor Hicks' new CD, please check AOL Music on Monday. Taylor is scheduled to appear on Regis and Kelly on Monday, March 2nd as well. I can't think of a better way to start off the month of March!

Taylor Hicks has accomplished his goal on this CD. No two tracks sound the same which keeps you wondering what is coming next. There is something for everyone on 'The Distance'. Taylor boldly shows his unique versatility by crossing more than one genre of music!

It didn't take me long to come up with some descriptive words for the songs on 'The Distance'.

Taylor Hicks' music displays sensitivity, versatility, emotional vulnerability, compassion for mankind, understanding, empathy and perhaps most importantly, "optimism" with the title track, "The Distance".

His sense of humour is clearly evident on two of the tracks - "Keeping It Real" and "Wedding Day Blues". Taylor teams up with Elliott Yamin on "Woman's Gotta Have It". I hope that we will hear more collaborations from these two artists in the future because they really are a unique combination of talent.

If you have ever experienced "a love gone wrong", (haven't we all at some time in our lives?),"Maybe You Should" will bring you to your knees and tears to your eyes. "Nineteen" is a heartfelt tribute to the sacrifices of our men and women who bravely find themselves abroad.

Everyone will have their own favourites on this CD. There is no need for me to elaborate on each track. It more important for you to make your own assessment. Visit AOL often and enjoy the new music that Taylor has shared with us.

On behalf of Bloom and myself - "Thank you, Taylor!"

Listening to Taylor Hicks' CD makes us FEEL good!



We wish Taylor continued success in the entertainment industry!


Today's cup:



"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful."
~Herman Cain~

"TAYLOR HICKS EXTENDS NATIONAL GREASE TOUR" – A SIGN OF THE TIMES?

A few days ago, I was surprised to read that Taylor Hicks had extended his contract with the National Grease Tour until 2010.

When I discussed this with a friend, she told me that she was not at all surprised. When “times” are difficult, she said, people feel the need to be distracted from the everyday challenges of life. Taylor intends to continue the “shadow tour” with his music which, in the end, turns out to be a “win/win” situation for him and his growing fan base.

My friend’s analogy to the desperate times of the Great Depression really did hit home with me when I watched the Oscars on television. It wasn’t an obvious choice for me to watch this show but since my favourite programs were not scheduled, I decided to take in the celebrations of the evening.

The multi-talented Hugh Jackman was an impressive host for the Oscars. I thoroughly enjoyed his musical and dance performances with Anne Hathaway and Beyoncé. In several interviews over the past few months, Taylor has made references to his goal of being a well-rounded entertainer. After watching Hugh Jackman, Taylor's rationale of "honing his craft" is understandable especially in today’s environment.

On a non-musical note, I thought it was wonderful that the acting nominees received individual recognition by one of their peers before that “envelope” was opened. All too often in previous shows, the names are read far too quickly without any personal mention of the accomplishments of the nominees. This was another “feel good” moment in my opinion.

As I watched the performances which included dancers and top hats, I was reminded of a time many years ago when there were afternoon movies on television that always had a great story, lots of music and dancing. You walked away from the television feeling good!

It seemed to me that the dominance of a musical theme throughout the show reinforced my friend’s conclusions that when the road is full of potholes, as it has been over the past several months, we all look to the entertainment industry to distract us from the hardships and the ongoing uncertainty that we are faced with on a daily basis.

During one of the elaborate musical performances, there was a tribute to Grease which obviously made me smile. I had always been a fan of the original movie and its music. Hugh Jackman shouted out “good music is coming back”! Yes, I thought, bring back some really good music. I want to feel good.

Music continued to be in the limelight during the Oscars when Queen Latifah performed “I’ll Be Seeing You” as pictures of those who have “moved on” were flashed across the screen. At the end of the show, we saw clips from upcoming 2009 movies accompanied, yet again, by music.

All of the emphasis on “music” that I saw on the Oscars tells me that Taylor Hicks has made a good decision to stay with the Grease Tour. Musicals are coming back which was clearly evident in the very popular movie “Mamma Mia"! When times are the darkest, we seem to yearn for nostalgia and we want to tap our feet to the beat of the uplifting songs.

Taylor Hicks' new video produced by Jake Davis for his newly released single, “What’s Right is Right” gives us this feeling of nostalgia with the lighting effects; the scenes of a dimly lit bar and an old-style restaurant. The song gives us hope that life will get better and that love from those around us can see us through the troubled days we face as citizens of this world.

Taylor’s new CD, “The Distance” which is being released on March 10th will, I am sure, give us more “feel good” music!




Today's cup:

A bend in the road is not the end of the road... unless you fail to make the turn.
~ Author Unknown ~

Taylor Hicks Tells It Like It Is

American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks Talks About His New Album The Distance, And His Songwriting
By Jason Blasco

Taylor Hicks quickly discovered the instant fame that comes from being named the 2006American Idol winner. Hicks has refused to buckle under the blazing spotlight of the entertainment industry, and has thrived on eclipsing expectations since his national television debut when Simon Cowell vehemently stated, “The American Idol audience would not put him in the final group, and he should be singing as a background singer.”

Hicks proved Cowell wrong by becoming American Idol’s Cinderella story and champion. Hicks rode the wave of success with his 2006 debut album, Taylor Hicks, that was certified platinum less than a month after it’s December release. But despite the early success of his debut album, he was dropped by both Arista Records and J Records in early 2008 after disappointing overall sales.

Like he has throughout his entire career, Hicks took being the lowest-selling artist in American Idol history in stride, and continued to move forward with his next project. Hick’s new album, The Distance, which will be released in March and contains the single “What’s Right is Right,” encompasses Hicks’ love for blues, pop, R&B and country. The album also features more of Hicks’ own compositions than on his previous album. Hicks is releasing The Distance on his own Modern Whomp Records label, which is distributed via a partnership with independent artist services company, Artist To Market. Hicks has also secured a deal with Vanguard/Welk Records to release some of his pre-American Idol material.

“Well, for me, I wanted to first of all understand the record, and what the model for owning and operating my own label was going to be,” Hicks said. “I felt like owning my own label would be the best way to go, because the distribution and the music has changed significantly. I felt like it was in my best interest to own a label because it’s a hybrid, up-to-the-minute record deal, if you will, and I felt like distribution was the way to go as opposed to the actual classic music business models.”

For Hicks, releasing The Distance under his own label changed the dynamics, and it allowed him the flexibility of more creative expression as a songwriter than he had with Arista Records. “Well, with the first record, I was unable to have the time and creative freedom to collaborate with who I wanted to write with,” Hicks said. “I think that is one dynamic that really sticks on this record. I wanted to showcase the songwriting side of me that I did on my first two records, prior to Idol. I think having the time, being able to pick the writers that I wanted to write with, and thinking about what I created is more apparent on this record.”

Article continued @ Song Writers Universe click here


YAHOO!!!!

YAHOO Music Video Premiere -click HERE!
2/17/09
"What's Right Is Right" - Taylor Hicks



Video still by music video and film director Jake Davis



Today's cup:

"I'm a firm believer in telling the truth, even when the truth hurts. Think of it this way - in the end, telling the truth is easier than keeping up with a bunch of lies. It's also good karma."
~ Taylor Hicks ~

Taylor Hicks Plays The Dating Game

Dating With The Stars
From: Live With Regis and Kelly


The votes have been tabulated and three lovely young ladies have won the chance to vie for a date with Taylor Hicks on Live With Regis and Kelly - Dating With The Stars.

"Matchmaker, Matchmaker,
Make me a match,
Find me a find,
Catch me a catch"

Tune in Monday, February 16th to meet the winning bachelorrettes chosen for Taylor pictured below!
Who will be the lucky young lady???
Find out on Thursday, February 19th when Taylor Hicks plays The Dating Game!

Good luck girls and have fun!


Julie Courtney, 31
San Francisco, CA
Real Estate Consultant


Stephanie Hlad, 27
Brandon, FL
Office Manager


Emily Stivers, 27
Washington, DC
Online Campaign Coordinator

Watch all week starting Monday, February 16th as Regis and Kelly play matchmakers to two adorable, charming bachelors - Food Network Chef Danny Boome and American Idol winner and musician Taylor Hicks.


Video credits: Live With Regis and Kelly

Meet the Bachelors - Taylor Hicks and Danny Boome


Taylor Hicks will be appearing again on Live With Regis and Kelly Monday, March 2, 2009 to perform his newly released single, "What's Right is Right" currently available for purchase on iTunes and Amazon.com.


Today's cup:


"Well, somebody has to arrange the matches,
Young people can't decide these things themselves."
~ Hodel - Fiddler On The Roof ~

Disney's American Idol Experience Gala

Taylor Hicks, David Cook, Jordin Sparks, Fantasia Barrino, Kelly Clarkson, Mickey Mouse, Carrie Underwood and Ruben Studdard


Disney's American Idol Blue Carpet


Taylor Hicks smiles for the cameras on the blue carpet.


Minnie Mouse and Taylor Hicks on the blue carpet.



Taylor Hicks riding in the Disney American Idol Experience motorcade



Taylor Hicks exits Motorcade at the Disney Hollywood Studios American Idol Experience Press Event on February 12, 2009.
video capture: auburnsummer (Thank You)



'Idols' Unite at the Disney 'American Idol Experience'
Former "Idol" contender and special ET correspondent Kimberley Locke was front-and-center at the parade to get the dish on this incredible day.
video credit: ETONLINE


Taylor talks with Orlando Metromix


Taylor talks with with 96.3 WDVD



Taylor Hicks at Disney's American Idol Experience Gala holding
a special microphone-shaped statuette created by Simon Fuller and presented to each of the Idol winners.



All seven winners of “American Idol” gathered for the first time ever at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the grand opening of The American Idol Experience attraction. Pictured, (L-R): Ruben Studdard, Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia Barrino, David Cook, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and Jordin Sparks — hold silver microphone awards presented to them at the event by Simon Fuller, creator and executive producer of “American Idol.”


American Idol Celebrities
Cast: Simon Fuller, Paula Abdul and Ryan Seacrest.

Former Idol Winners: Jordin Sparks, David Cook, Ruben Studdard, Fantasia Barrino, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Hicks and Kelly Clarkston.

Notable contestants: David Archuleta, Bo Bice, Jason Castro, Bucky Covington, Diana DeGarmo, Melinda Doolittle, Josh Gracin, Justin Guarini, Michael Johns, LaKisha Jones, Kimberley Locke, Sanjaya Malakar, Mandisa, Syesha Mercado, Chris Sligh, Carly Smithson, Phil Stacey, Brooke White, and Ace Young.


Inside Disney's American Idol Experience


Today's cup:


"To all that come to this happy place: welcome. Disneyland is your land. Here age relives fond memories of the past, and here youth may savor the challenge and promise of the future. Disneyland is dedicated to the ideals, the dreams, and the hard facts that have created America... with hope that it will be a source of joy and inspiration to all the world."
~ Walt Disney ~

Be My Valentine

After winning over the hearts of all of America, Taylor Hicks is ready to win over the heart of one special lady.


From: LIVE With Regis And Kelly ~ Dating With The Stars

Born and raised in Alabama, he is a true Southern gentleman who has spent a lot of time in NY lately starring in Broadway's "Grease"... and is now touring the country in the show.
Besides music, Taylor loves golf, scuba diving, skiing and watching college basketball. He would love to meet a free spirited career-minded gal who can be serious during the week but can cut loose on the weekends.
If your heart is ready for a little Soul Patrol … Taylor is your guy.

Valentine's Day is right around the corner, but even if you don't have a special someone to celebrate with, it's not too late to find love. In fact, Regis and Kelly are going to play matchmaker! We have two adorable, charming and more importantly single men that we are giving our viewers a chance to go on a date with, which may include a trip to New York City to be on our show.
Click here to read more!


Valentine's Day Fun Facts
About 1 billion Valentine's Day cards are exchanged in the US each year. That's the largest seasonal card-sending occasion of the year, next to Christmas.

Women purchase 85% of all valentines.

Valentine's Day and Mother's Day are the biggest holidays for giving flowers.

Worldwide, over 50 million roses are given for Valentine's Day each year.

California produces 60 percent of American roses, but the vast number sold on Valentine's Day in the United States are imported, mostly from South America.

Men buy most of the millions of boxes of candy and bouquets of flowers given on Valentine's Day.

In the Middle Ages, young men and women drew names from a bowl to see who their valentines would be. They would wear these names on their sleeves for one week. To wear your heart on your sleeve now means that it is easy for other people to know how you are feeling.

The Italian city of Verona, where Shakespeare's lovers Romeo and Juliet lived, receives about 1,000 letters addressed to Juliet every Valentine's Day.

Richard Cadbury invented the first Valentines Day candy box in the late 1800s.

To be awoken by a kiss on Valentine's Day is considered lucky.


Valentine's Day Superstitions
On Valentine's Day, the first guy's name you read in the paper or hear on the TV or radio will be the name of the man you will marry.

If you see a squirrel on Valentine's Day, you will marry a cheapskate who will hoard all your money.

If you see a goldfinch on Valentine's Day, you will marry a millionaire.

If you see a robin on Valentine's Day, you will marry a crime fighter - maybe they mean Batman!

If you see a flock of doves on Valentine's Day, you will have a happy, peaceful marriage.

If you find a glove on the road on Valentine's Day, your future beloved will have the other missing glove.


Wishing everyone a wonderful Valentine's Day filled with all the love your heart can hold!
~Bloom~

Today's cup:

"Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies."
~Aristotle~