BROADWAY'S GOT A NEW ANGEL: TAYLOR HICKS! NEW AD!

Now THIS is what I call PUBLICITY! Taylor must be beaming from ear to ear with this full page ad. I do believe we have a bona-fide star here. This current ad was in the June 1st Sunday Edition of Newsday in NYC. It appears lots of good, positive exposure is coming Taylor's way this summer! Click for larger version.



Thanks Valerie for the scan!

Taylor Hicks - *GREASE* Promotional Picture

Click on image for larger version!

Thanks janibeth and tappanga for these promo scans!

Picture courtesy of Grease On Broadway!

Taylor Hicks at Wolf Trap - Cancelled

Due to Taylor's committment to the Broadway production of GREASE this summer, his participation in the Sgt. Pepper Tribute show at the Filene Center at WolfTrap in Vienna, VA on August 23 has been cancelled. Taking over for Taylor will be Bo Bice. I have no information about ticket refunds, but if you call the venue at (877) 965-3872, I'm sure they will give you all the information you want.

I sort of expected this, since the show would have required him to be there not only for the show, but for a few rehearsals beforehand. Sorry to all who purchased tickets and airline fares. :(

Taylor Hicks In Rehearsals For Broadway's GREASE

Thank you OBG for this updated information on Taylor and his starring role in Grease!

All three local New York TV news stations (WABC, WCBS, WNBC) should be streaming video on or around opening night, so watch those stations if you're in the area. If you get any media, let me know and I'll post it here! He has his own dressing room at the Brooks Atkinson Theater, so if you are sending him anything, it will get to him, personally. Send all well wishes to Taylor Hicks care of The Brooks Atkinson Theatre, 256 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036, (212) 719-4099.

Cameras are allowed in the theater, but they don't want you taking pictures (but, if your camera happens to 'accidently' go off in the theater and you 'accidently' get a shot of Taylor, I'd be more than happy to post it here for you!) That goes for video as well. That said, you can snap away until your hearts content when the actors come out of the stage door when they leave the theater. They usually all sign autographs and take pictures with fans. We know Taylor is GOOD at this, eh? He loves his fans and will accomodate all of them, I'm sure.

Doors open 1/2 hour before the performances. Dress is casual.

The rep from the theater said she hadn't seen Taylor yet, but the press has already started coming in!

Keep watching for promo pics and interviews with Taylor leading up the show!


For more info on tickets, directions, etc., check out their website at: http://www.greaseonbroadway.com/

TAYLOR HICKS Performs at Share, Inc. Gala!

On May 31, 2008 Taylor will be among the performers at the 55th annual gala for SHARE, Inc. SHARE was founded in 1953 as a non-profit philanthropic organization composed of women who raise funds for ‘at risk’ youth, developmentally disabled, abused, and neglected children. These women are passionate and devoted to helping these children as well as raising money for medical research for all forms of developmental disabilities. Share, Inc. has raised over forty four million dollars to date.

This is sure to be a star-studded event where the dress is ‘dressy western attire’. Cocktails will be flowing, live and silent auctions will take place, as well as a sit-down dinner with entertainment by Clint Holmes (voted best all-around entertainer in Las Vegas), 2007 Tony Award Winner Jay Johnson, American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks, and the fabulous dancing Share Ladies.

The Santa Monica Civic Auditorium has been filled with VIP surprise performers and guests, one of which will be Paris Hilton. Nigel Lythgoe, Executive Producer of “American Idol”, will be presented and honored with ‘The Shining Spirit Award’.

Did you notice who ELSE will be at this event? Yes folks, the money grubbing, Taylor hating producer of American Idol. All I can say is that I hope Taylor BLOWS Nigel's hairpiece off with his funky music and dance moves. Too bad Cowell isn't there too!

The Hottness That Is Taylor Hicks!

Just because it's so hot! Enjoy!


Hollywood Nights-Taylor Hicks from Strawgirl on Vimeo.

Taylor Hicks - The Funk Was Missing from American Idol This Year

Part two of WALA's Fox Ten News exclusive interview with Season 5 American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks aired tonight. The interview is below. You can see Part One here.



GULF SHORES, Ala. -- When Birmingham-native Taylor Hicks was singing his soul out on stage in 2006, fans in the Yellowhammer State were screaming out theirs in support. "It just seemed like the momentum was getting bigger and bigger," reflected Hicks. "The Soul Patrol was getting bigger and bigger. The weeks really lined up for me, Elvis week, then Rod Stewart week - some of those variables that allowed my to shine as an artist."

2006 Winner

Shine he did. Hicks claimed the 2006 title in the highest-rated season finale of American Idol to-date - with more than 36-million viewers watching. "It was a fun ride; I'd love to get back on it and do it all over again."

Hicks’ thoughts of Idol judges and host

As Hicks prepares for his role of "Teen Angel" in the Broadway production of "Grease", he reflected on some of the other stars of "American Idol."

Hicks associated the following names, with the following words:

"Simon: Mean. Randy: Cool. Paula: Fun. Seacrest: Smart.

Seacrest is the wittiest guy that I've ever run into. He's so quick, that you're nervous about what you're gonna say around him, because he's got something to say right after you. He's the Dick Clark of our generation."

Not to say Simon Cowell wasn't intimidating. "I must admit - Simon was the same person on camera and off. He has a very good track record of pop music and I respect his opinion, and I thought he was a good guy (wink and laugh)."

Does Cowell have anything other than black shirts to wear? "I tried to send him a Soul Patrol shirt but I think he tried to send it back!" exclaimed Hicks.

Something's missing this season

Hicks said he's been enjoying this season of Idol, but in his opinion - one thing's been missing from the shows. "I just want to see everybody get down on the floor and get funky like I did... but that's just me."

Look out Broadway, because Taylor Hicks is about to bring his Alabama style to the Great White Way.

Hicks' "Grease" Debut

Hicks' "Grease" debut is June 6. He said he'll add a soulful flavor to the song "Beauty School Dropout." Several other Idol artists have performed on Broadway, including season 3 winner Fantasia and season 2 runner-up Clay Aiken.

Taylor Hicks Is Back - Ready To Turn Heads - Again!

Taylor gave an exclusive interview to Fox News in Mobile, Al. He talked about his life, the songs he's been writing, his upcoming album and his other upcoming projects. Here is the interview and video. Part 2 of the interview will be up tomorrow.



GULF SHORES, Ala. -- It's been two years since Birmingham-native Taylor Hicks patrolled the winner's stage at American Idol. Now the Alabama soul man is getting ready to turn heads again.

Hicks on Broadway

After taking a break from the spotlight for a little bit, Taylor Hicks is starting to make headlines again. He recently announced he's joining the Broadway cast of "Grease." And after touring the world and working on an upcoming album, Hicks is hoping for more than just some "summer lovin’.'"

2006 American Idol win

Taylor Hicks sang "Do I Make You Proud?" right after winning the 2006 American Idol. That was two years ago. The Birmingham-native is back in the studio working on an upcoming album to see if audiences still feel that way. "I've been writing in Nashville with a lot of A-list songwriters for my album which I'm gonna try to release this fall," Hicks said. "I've been able to have the creative control and the time to be able to make a great representation of who I am right now as an artist, a songwriter, and musician."

Where is Hicks right now?

Many fans have been wondering not just who Hicks is right now.... but where he is. It's been about 18 months since his self-titled album was released and earlier this year - he parted ways with his record label - Arista. "It was very mutual. It's just one of those things that happen in the business and the main thing is the music and where the music's going and the fans, and how they respond to the next album. The next album is key."

Hicks said that next album should be ready in the fall. He calls it a snapshot of his current life. "Some of the music that I've really taken to right now and written is about things that have happened right now in my life, friendships, relationships in the past, but a lot of those... and just stories."

Hicks rapping?

Hicks is excited to have plenty of freedom on his sophomore album, which is saying something for a man who once shared the stage with rapper Snoop Dogg, "Rap might not be in my repertoire just yet. Although I have been known to do a little bit of rapping on stage - no rap albums just yet."

Aftermath of an American Idol victory

Hicks said he wishes he could relive his Idol experience, but the show's aftermath was a bit stressful. "Right after you win, they put you on tour and then you have to record a record. What they really want you to do is put the album out, during the time when people are buying records at Christmastime - it completely makes sense, but for a songwriter, and somebody who's creative - it's tough, and there's some pressure."

But now that he's back on an independent label... there's more pressure than ever. "I was very fortunate to get my first record deal with them, but I'm excited about what lies ahead in terms of particular deals and stuff like that. I'm pretty excited about a few things, which I can't tell you about!"

Hicks will play "Teen Angel" in "Grease," starting June 6. In addition to his new album slated for the fall, Hicks has a concert DVD coming out called "Whomp at the Warfield."

Taylor Hicks: Broadway Star!

Well, you have to admit, Taylor threw a wicked curve ball to just about everyone when he announced he was going to appear on Broadway, at the Brooks Atkinson Theater, in *GREASE* starting June 6 and ending Sept 7.

Looking as handsome as ever on The Today Show last Friday, he seemed to be spilling over with excitement at this wonderful opportunity. He will be starring as the "Teen Angel", a flashy role that makes a grand entrance during Act II. Word from those who have seen the play is that he will fly in on a giant Ice Cream Cone! Yes, you heard right! A GIANT ICE CREAM CONE! I dunno about you, but I can't WAIT to see that!

In recent years, he expressed a bit of interest in acting, so this part will give him the opportunity to get his feet wet without being overwhelmed. He did say, however, that if he liked doing this sort of thing, he would look for bigger roles down the road. At the same time, he will be able to finish up his new album that we're all waiting with baited breath for. According to the Birmingham news, he's written some of the best songs of his life, with themes ranging from love to the socially conscious. I suspect the big plan is to tour after the album is released and the Broadway gig is up in the Fall.

For those who are a bit uneasy about this unlikely role for Taylor, consider this. I think Taylor sees himself as an entertainer by way of music, which is still his meat and potatoes - his 'day job' in other words. The man needs diversification. He's a pocket full of energy who needs creative outlets to breath. To be creatively challenged is his nourishment. Like he said, the role is a 'perfect fit' for him.

I'm sure trying out for American Idol left many of his friends scratching their heads in wonder, but in the end, it turned out to be a life altering experience. I see this temporary move to the Broadway stage as another bold move - something we as Taylor fans need to get use to - the unpredictability of his choices.

Some are concerned that his peers won't see him as a "serious musician". I disagree. I think pigeonholing him into a very narrow career path - one that can't be deviated from in fear on falling off course - is selfish on the part of his fans. Perhaps Taylor sees himself and actually is working towards a career that not only includes the soul and blues that he loves so much (and from what we hear, this new album will rock some serious socks!), but also include other creative outlets such as Broadway and perhaps movies and TV as well someday. He already has "author" credit to his name. Good for him! He's trying to *broaden* his territory and some are trying to stifle his growth.

It's like a homing missile. Those missiles are geared to hit a target but sometimes they go off-course once in a while - not in a straight, direct route - on the way to hitting the target. Eventually they DO hit it tho. I see Taylor's career like this homing missile.

Bottom line - Taylor envisions himself as an all-around entertainer. Those who want him to just stick to the "it's all about the music" mentality might want to reconsider. Maybe, just maybe, it's not.

Taylor Hicks: I'm Bringing the Soul Patrol to Broadway

Taylor Hicks is following in the footsteps of Fantasia and Clay Aiken: The American Idol winner will make his Broadway debut June 6.

Hicks tells PEOPLE he can't wait to perform in Grease. "I'm truly honored to have a role in such an American institution," says Hicks, who made the announcement Friday on the Today show. "I'm going to Broadway shows and just watching and learning."

While in New York City, the Alabama native will also record his country-influenced second album.

"I've been spending a lot of time with songwriters in Nashville," Hicks tells PEOPLE. "I can really breathe creatively without the constraints of a post-Idol album."

He also plans to tackle some serious issues. "It's an election year so there will be some political undertones. I've become a sponge while creating each song, soaking up what's going on whether it's political or about love."

Since he was recently dropped from his record label, he's considering releasing the upcoming album himself. "It's motivation," says Hicks. "This is a marathon for me, not a sprint.

But he'll make time for some N.Y.C. fun as well. "I need to go to the Statue of Liberty for the first time," he says, adding that he knows one way he'll try to fit in with the natives.

Says Hicks: "I'll have to figure out what fan I should be, Yankees or Mets!"

Source

Here's Taylor's Interview on the Today Show:

AP Press Release: "Taylor Hicks to play Teen Angel in Broadway's `Grease'"

Taylor Hicks to play Teen Angel in Broadway's `Grease'
By ERIN CARLSON – 1 hour ago

NEW YORK (AP) — Taylor Hicks is going from "Idol" to "Angel."

The "American Idol" alum will join the Broadway cast of "Grease" on June 6, playing Teen Angel in the revival of the popular musical.

The gray-haired singer — whose "Idol" fan base was called "The Soul Patrol" — said he plans to add "soulful flavor" to his performance of "Beauty School Dropout." The flashy role, he said, is "a classic fit for a classic performer."

"It's a big number, and, you know, I've made some pretty grand entrances before," Hicks told The Associated Press on Thursday. "And this one is probably the grandest entrance I've had in my career."

Well, besides "Idol." Hicks, 31, took home the title in the fifth season of the top-rated Fox show — the biggest stage on television.

He later lost his record deal with J Records, a label within Sony-BMG, which signs the show's singers, and had been looking for the perfect part to make his debut on The Great White Way.

"If you're gonna be a great entertainer and you're gonna be a great performer, than these are the things that you have to do to season yourself in that manner," said Hicks, who views this "opportunity of a lifetime" as a way to improve his "Idol"-tested skills.

The Alabama-born crooner's run ends Sept. 7. He'll be the latest "Idol" to hit Broadway, following runs by season-three winner Fantasia Barrino ("The Color Purple") and a host of also-rans including Clay Aiken ("Spamalot"), Diana DeGarmo ("Hairspray") and Constantine Maroulis ("The Wedding Singer").

Hicks' self-titled, post-"Idol" album, released in December 2006, has sold a respectable 702,000 copies, according to Nielsen Soundscan data. But it didn't reach the 1 million mark or register a hit song, unlike previous "Idol" winners.

This summer, Hicks intends to finish up a follow-up album — on his own terms.

"I've had the creative freedom and the time to write some of the best music that I've ever written in my whole life. ... The options are unlimited and there has been some great interest now that I'm a free agent, so to speak," he said.

Source: AP

Taylor Hicks prepares for Broadway role in 'Grease'

Taylor Hicks will make his Broadway debut on June 6, playing Teen Angel in "Grease" at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre.

Taylor Hicks said being in New York for three months will allow him to continue working on his next CD. He's been writing songs and recording demos in Nashville, Hicks said, and hopes to release a new single in the fall. The Hoover native and former "American Idol" winner, 31, will perform in the musical through Sept. 7. Hicks plans to announce his Broadway run on television this morning, on NBC's "The Today Show."

"I'm honored for the opportunity to experience Broadway," Hicks said Thursday. "I feel blessed and excited."

He'll appear in one number in the musical, singing "Beauty School Dropout." That's traditional for his character, a hip guardian angel who makes a showy appearance in Act II, offering advice to a teen named Frenchy.

"This particular part, Teen Angel, really allows me to put my toe in the water and test the waters," Hicks said. "I've always been a little over the top, so this is perfect for me."

If he does well on stage and draws audiences, Hicks said, he'll probably look for another, larger role on Broadway.

Meantime, he's been listening to "Beauty School Dropout" and meeting with the "Grease" team to create his niche in the musical.

"It's a cool song," Hicks said. "I can see myself being able to Taylorize it. Who knows? Maybe I'll do the Elvis meets Aretha Franklin meets Joe Cocker version of 'Beauty School Dropout.' I don't think anybody's taken that approach yet. I'll get with the producers and sink my teeth into the role."

Hicks said he's never seen a theater production of "Grease," but has watched the 1978 movie version, which starred John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John as lovelorn 1950s high-schoolers. In the film, Frankie Avalon played the Teen Angel.

On stage, the character has been portrayed by singers ranging from Chubby Checker to Al Jarreau to Jennifer Holliday.

"Grease" made its first appearance on Broadway in 1972, had a long run and was revived in 1994. The show has been produced in London over the years, as well, and national touring casts have traveled throughout the United States.

The current Broadway production, which opened in August 2007, stars Max Crumm and Laura Osnes, who won their parts on the TV reality series "Grease: You're the One That I Want."

Hicks is likely to be the most recognizable name in the cast, despite his relatively small part. Teen Angel tends to be a flamboyant force in the show, typically wearing a large, fluffy set of wings.

Will Hicks continue that costume tradition? "I might," he said. "I might be flying, too."

http://blog.al.com/scene/2008/05/taylor_hicks_prepares_for_broa.html

and from the NY Times:

...The revival of "Grease," at the Brooks Atkinson Theater, was born from reality talent show and will survive by reality talent show. Taylor Hicks, the 2006 “American Idol” winner and captain of the so-called soul patrol, will step into the role of Teen Angel from June 6 to Sept. 7....

Here is the song Taylor will be singing (here it is sung by Frankie Avalon)

Taylor Hicks to Appear on The Today Show to Announce Summer Plans!

Yea, folks, make sure you tune in tomorrow morning (May 16th) to THE TODAY SHOW on NBC 10:15am EST (but I'd watch the whole show) for some BIG ANNOUNCEMENT from Taylor, who has recently hinted at some great news!

More info forthcoming...........

Taylor Hicks Shows Us How To Sing a Billy Joel Tune

Funny how juxtapositions work sometimes. Just 3 days ago I layed my eyes on some videos from the Hannah Home Charity Concert, which starred Taylor Hicks in a rare acoustic moment (helped ably by horn extraordinaire Jeff Lopez and keyboard aficionado Brian less). He played about 8 or 9 songs that night, but the one that made me catch by breath - literally - was a Billy Joel tune called "NY State of Mind". Let me tell you people, I haven't seen singing like this in many many years. I'm not talking about hitting the right notes, I'm talking about emoting and laying down the emotion to a song. They're synonymous with Taylor's name and totally absent from anything playing on Top 40 radio. And I mean that.

Then I watched last night's American Idol. David Archuleta attempted to catch the essence of the lyric of another Billy Joel song called "And So It Goes". Yes, he hit all the right notes alright, but the rendition left me completely sterile.

When will American Idol realize what a GEMSTONE they had in Taylor whom they let slip through their dirty fingers?

During the chit-chat between songs, Taylor left us with the following 'tease' about the upcoming album! I get all tingly just thinking about how *great* this album will be. Hurry up, Mr. Hicks, the world is waiting to be woken up!

...."I have had the great opportunity to write with some of the best songwriters in the world the last few months. I learned alot about myself as far a a songwriter. I didn't have really have much time to get creative on the last album. This is going to be some of the best music I've ever written in my whole life. All the clubs and bars, you know all the trials and tribulations of just going thru all that and something to be able to express myself in a big way. So an album is coming out soon so hopefully you guys will check it out." ...

NY STATE OF MIND

New York State of Mind from Lh1100 on Vimeo.

ON & ON

On and On from Lh1100 on Vimeo.

MOONDANCE

Moondance from Lh1100 on Vimeo.

Taylor Hicks Display at the Alabama Hall Of Fame Music Unveiled!

Over the weekend, Taylor Hick's exhibit at the Alabama Music Hall of Fame was unveiled to a swarm of fans and family. In attendence were his grandmother Ms. Joni and his younger cousin Morgan. Displayed are Taylor's bathrobe from the 2006 Idol Tour, a set of drum sticks, a signed cow bell, a signed harmonica, the infamous purple jacket from the 2006 American Idol finale, the paisley shirt he wore when he sang "Play That Funky Music White Boy" on American Idol, the tamborine that he played in Seattle (the last concert of his 2007 Spring tour) and a beautifully framed and signed concert picture hanging on the wall.

Thanks to "OldieButGoodie" for these fab pictures of the event!

Taylor Hicks Teeing Off at Region's Charity Classic Golf Tournament

Taylor Hicks will be teeing off at the beautiful Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Ross Bridge in Birmingham AL for the Region's Charity Classic being held May 14-18. This will be Taylor's second time participating in the event and is scheduled to play May 14th and 15th. He will be amongst an elite group of entertainers and sports celebrities who include Charles Barkley, Bo Jackson, Joe Namath, Phil Niekro, and Joe Theismann among others! More information about the event can be found here.

Taylor Hicks - A Look Back To Season 5 Top 3 Homecoming

As we await the snooze fest this week on American Idol - the top 3 homecoming week, let us go back in time when things on the show were genuinely thrilling - back two years ago when Taylor, Katharine and Elliott slugged it out for the win. Ah, the good 'ol days when the competition was exciting!!!

Here's a portion of Taylor's homecoming at the Galleria Shopping Mall in Hoover, Alabama where fans greeted their hero! Coming down that elevator to a sea of admirers, can you just imagine what was going through his head after 10 years of struggle to get himself and his music heard? They had over 12,000 people in attendance that day for the hometown boy!



That week on the show, Taylor blew the competition away with the following 3 songs. Yes, America, you sure did get it RIGHT by picking Taylor Hicks as your winner of Season 5 - the most enjoyable entertainer the show has ever produced.

Dancing In The Dark - Clive Davis Choice (I can see the disgust in Taylor's eye when listening to this old geezer telling him how to put emotion into the song. Good Grief!)


You Are So Beautiful - Judges Choice (Randy Jackson)


Try A Little Tenderness (Taylor's Personal Choice)

Idol Gives Back Stamp Invites You to Stick Hicks

How do you know you've gotten a letter from a member of the Soul Patrol? Because this guy on the right is grinning at ya from the corner of the envelope. The latest issue in the Idol Gives Back limited-edition stamp collection is Season 5 champ Taylor Hicks, and TVGuide.com has been offered this sneak peek at his postage. Previous reveals included Idols Kelly, Ruben, Fantasia and Carrie. Only 2,000 of each stamp are being made available per state.

The books of stamps are available for purchase at PhotoStamps.com, with $10 of the above-face-value price going to Idol Gives Back's charity efforts.

Source: TV Guide

Well I'll take a mention on the TV Guide website pimping the Taylor Hicks stamp! Yes-sir-ree bob! I'll even take that minuscule mention on Wednesday's results show about the stamp. What did Ryan say? You can now lick and send Taylor? Now THAT sounds like something I could do - probably the only shot I'll have to lick him in my lifetime. Hell ya! GAH! I digress - the piece lasted about 5 seconds so I couldn't really digest what was actually said and I have no interest in re-watching it either. The show makes my stomach curdle but I'm sure whatever was said was derogatory in nature...knowing their past shenanigans.

That said, I really enjoyed seeing Mr. Bo Bice on the show tonight. He and Taylor were the only two people who ever interested me enough to pick up a phone and vote.

This season would end on an upnote for me if our soulman delivers next week in person. Hold on to your seats, kiddies - this may get interesting!

Taylor Hicks Parties With Hef's 'Bunnies'

These are pretty self-explanatory. Suffice it to say Taylor had a great weekend, partying with the Playboy Bunnies, the Kentucky Derby, The Grand Gala and all the other VIP activities last weekend. Yes, our soulman is living the good life!




Credit: emptyhd009 for finding the previous 3 images
Click on pictures for larger versions!


Credit: TaysHarmonica for finding the above image
Click on picture for a larger version!

Taylor Hicks American Idol Stamps Available to Purchase

To order, check out this website!

Not bad, although I wish they would have used some newer pictures. However, I'm glad they use one with the guitar in his hand - for the musician he is. Given that it's American Idol we're talking about, I guess I'm happy with the sheet. I'll be ordering a few! Off I go........

Taylor Hicks Picks David Archuleta to Win; Readies for Release of 2 CD Set Of Early Works

According to the Courier-Journal, who is "American Idol" winner Taylor Hicks rooting for on this season's show?

"David Archuleta. He kind of reminds me of Wayne Newton. You know, the "Danke Schoen" at (17). He's a young entertainer. (He'll do great) if he could just sustain himself when he tours. From that show, it doesn't necessarily have to be music, it could be film. The show form is television. There could be ample opportunities (for him) in the entertainment industry."

Hicks, meanwhile, will drop a new album this fall; a DVD called "Whomp at the Warfield," a two-disc set of his pre-"American Idol" songs and is planning tours in Asia and Italy.

"I never thought country boy from Alabama could go over to Asia and have a fan base," he said, sipping on a Jack Daniels and 7. "The soul patrol reaches around the globe. It's an international concept."

So I have to assume from this nugget of information that the Early Works CD will include more than "In Your Time" and "Under the Radar" because those two can easily fit on ONE CD (14 songs). What do you suppose the other CD will be? Re-dos? Ain't No Sunshine? Abraham, Martin & John? People Get Ready from the 'Nashville" gig? This may turn out to be one 'hell of a set', eh?

Taylor Hicks - Among the Best Dressed at Kentucky Derby!

According to Young Lifestyles, our Soulman Taylor was one of the best dressed the Kentucky Derby yesterday! Well, duh, of COURSE he was! Didn't need a blogger to tell me that! hahaha!! The blurb reads:

"Taylor Hicks attends the 134th Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs, We are waiting for the former American Idol to grace the stage this season and put out a new album..."



(Thanks to TaysHarmonica and Cam16 for finding the top three pictures.)


(Thanks MK for finding this one! OMG!)

And more pictures...

Taylor Hicks On the Red Carpet at the Kentucky Derby!

Thanks to TaysHarmonica for the images!!









No Words.

Taylor Hicks Arrives At The Crown Royal Playboy Lounge Party

Travis Tritt, left, and Taylor Hicks arrive at the Crown Royal Playboy Lounge Party in Louisville, Ky., Saturday, May 3, 2008. The 134th Kentucky Derby will be held on Saturday, May 3.

NEW YORK, April 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Crown Royal and Playboy will team up for the third year in a row to throw the most exclusive party in town during Kentucky Derby weekend. On Friday, May 2, Louisville's Mellwood Arts & Entertainment Center will once again be transformed into the Crown Royal Lounge. Twelve Playboy Playmates will host this sexy soiree while celebrities, athletes and VIPs enjoy cocktails and dancing to music by Kid Capri. Party guests can also get ready to look sharp at the races with a haircut from celebrity barber Darrel Thomas.

"The Kentucky Derby has always been an event about excitement, sophistication and style so we are thrilled to once again partner with Crown Royal to embody these elements with the Crown Royal Lounge," said Lou Mohn, vice president and publisher, Playboy. "Over the last two years, we have seen our event with Crown Royal grow into the most anticipated party of the Derby weekend and we hope our attendees have as much fun at the Crown Royal Lounge as they do at the race itself."Race-inspired cocktails, the Crown Royal Rose and the Crown Royal Cask No.16 Perfecta, will be featured throughout the evening with the important message for all attendees to "Be a Champion. Drink Responsibly." This is the sixth year Crown Royal has thrown this exclusive party the night before the Kentucky Derby, and the third time they have partnered with Playboy.

The last two pictures here are from the Bud Select Official Kentucky Derby Eve Party at The In Touch Weekly Parlor with Pama Pomegranate and Pro Flowers party at Felt Lounge on May 2, 2008 in Louisville, Kentucky. (Photo by Jason Kempin/WireImage).

Looks like Taylor got caught in that Kentucky rainfall!

Taylor Hicks Will Walk The Red Carpet at Kentucky Derby

As we all know, Taylor will be a celebrity guest at the 134th Kentucky Derby on May 3, 2008. He is going to place a bet of $5000 on the horse that the Soul Patrol decides has the best chance of winning. The winnings will then go to the wonderful charity, Studio by the Tracks. Since it is a horse race, if for some reason the horse the Soul Patrol picks does not win, Taylor will still make a $5000 donation to Studio by the Tracks.

NBC will broadcast the Kentucky Derby this Saturday and televise the RED CARPET entrance of the celebrities from 4-5 PM EST! Surely, Taylor will be one of the ones show-cased and man, I can hardly wait to catch of glimpse of the soulman in his Sunday best! So check your local listing and tune in!

Taylor has also been invited to be a guest at the Grand Gala the night before the Derby. According to WHAS, the star studded event is the biggest party around. Celebs will get bourbon balls, liquor from Brown Forman, Red Bull and gourmet popcorn. Celebs will also have clothes waiting for them. Chris Tucker is going to be wearing a suit by Ted Baker to the gala. This year the entertainment is Earth, Wind and Fire. Check out their website for more information and a great video!