Taylor Hicks Brings the American Idol House Down Once Again!

Taylor Hicks seized the moment and conquered the American Idol stage yet again - 3 years after he was crowned Season 5 Winner. He performed flawlessly - blowing some harp and earning a standing ovation from all 4 judges - yes, included Simon Cowell - I know, I was floored too! And as far as I can remember, the judges have NEVER given a returning Idol a standing ovation before tonight. Kudos, Taylor for getting them on their feet for you! He looked so stunning in a black sleeveless vest, form fitting jeans, and boots. Simon cames in his underwear. Nice, Simon. Taylor outshined all the other guests with his charisma, his stunning voice and his mere presence. Yes, he IS a STAR in every possible sense of the word. Enjoy the performance, fellow fans, and check out the pictures!

The SoulMan, Taylor Hicks, Hits The American Idol Stage Tonight!

Taylor Hicks comes home tonight to the stage that he completely dominated 3 years ago. Yes, the American Idol Season 5 winner takes the stage to sing his brand new single, the brilliant Seven Mile Breakdown, which will be released to country radio on May 5. It's one of the best songs on Taylor's newly released CD, The Distance. If you haven't picked up a copy yet, run and do so!

Things to watch out for tonight:

1. Taylor reminding America why they loved him and why he won in May of '06.
2. Taylor rumbling the studio, setting off a minor earthquake in Los Angeles.
3. Seeing Kara and Paula melting in their seats from his model-esque good looks.
4. Making sure that people realize Danny Gokey is no match and there is no comparison to Taylor. There is one and only one Taylor Hicks.

and last, but not least:

5. Simon looking pained and irritated as he watches Taylor show him what a real *star" looks like - not the pseudo stars that he manufactured, i.e., Leona Lewis, Daughtry and El Divo (who are they, anyway?)

It's payback time to all the naysayers, haters, chrolls and trolls that have infested the landscape these past 3 years. Blow it out your ass! Yes, it's time. Tear that 'ol place down, Mr. Hicks, and show those amateurs how a pro does it!

Seven Mile Breakdown at the Roxy Theater in Los Angeles

Taylor Hicks: 'American Idol' winner loves musicals, envisions TV and film roles, too!

By Paul Hodgins, The Orange County Register
Taylor Hicks sees "Grease's" Teen Angel as a character with training wheels.

A word or two of explanation: Hicks wanted to ease from "American Idol" fame into musical theater with a role that would fit his abilities and wouldn't present him with Shakespearean-sized challenges.

"I'd been offered some roles previously, but I wanted to make sure the part was right for me," said Hicks from somewhere on the road between engagements. Hicks and the rest of the "Grease" cast arrive in Orange County next week; the show opens Tuesday at the Performing Arts Center for a two-week run. Hicks will perform every show except April 29, when he's slated to appear on "American Idol."

"From an observer's standpoint I saw him as kind of an introductory character – that's the best way I can describe it," Hicks said. "I wanted a role that was a great way to introduce myself to the stage and observe what musical theater is all about. It's a small but flashy role that I can really understand and have a great time with."

Hicks has never shied away from challenges. After auditioning for "American Idol" on a lark in 2005 – his brother put him up to it – he met some stiff opposition. Judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul liked the Birmingham, Ala., native's down-home singing style and folksy persona well enough, but Simon Cowell didn't. The imperious Brit said Hicks would never survive to the final round.

As Hicks sailed to the top ranks, Cowell publicly conceded his error. Hicks became a Top 3 finalist on May 10, 2006 and won on May 24 (at 29, the oldest contestant to win) in a broadcast that was seen by 200 million viewers worldwide.

"I think from the beginning I took his comments with a grain of salt," Hicks said of Cowell's criticism. "I think with Simon you have to."

Hicks felt vindicated by the public's overwhelming support. "Ultimately, I think this was a great instance of where Simon was proved wrong by the American people. That disconnect is part of what makes the show go round."

By the time "American Idol" made him famous, Hicks had worked for more than a decade in the trenches of pop-music performance, including endless road gigs and a stint in Nashville, which he found frustrating.

"If you really want to make a living playing music, that's not the town to do that. If you want to starve for ten years and then possibly make it in country (music), well, it's fine for that. I was living in Nashville and driving five hours to Alabama, where there was a demand. It was hard just to stay afloat."

EVERY DAY IS A BLESSING

Despite years of toiling in obscurity, Hicks insists he never doubted that some day he would break through as a performer.

"I kind of always had this intuitive feeling, even from when I started traveling at 17, that if I did keep with it I would have a chance – an opportunity to break through."

The hard knocks and challenges of life on the road prepared him for the rough-and-tumble music business, Hicks said.

"I spent ten years cold-calling people and knocking on doors. I know how to persevere. With all those years on the road I learned about the business and who I am as a person. Being basically a nobody, it really teaches you a lot about how to handle things when you're finally a somebody. So I was ready for (fame) – I'd had a lot of preparation."

Hicks also believes in fate. "I got into one of the last taxicabs out of New Orleans before (Hurricane) Katrina (struck). I somehow got a plane ticket to the ('American Idol') audition in Las Vegas. It feels like it was meant to be."

Questions about marriage, kids and commitment draw a vague response – Hicks is still single, living on the road and loving it. (He was named People magazine's Hottest Bachelor for 2006.) "Marriage and kids would be nice and fun and demanding at the same time. But I'm not ready to settle down yet. I left my apartment in February of 2005 and never went back. I haven't had a permanent place of dwelling since then."

Hicks' career plans include more musical theater – he was thrilled to do "Grease" on Broadway for three months before he joined the tour – and perhaps the kinds of roles that draw even bigger audiences.

"Broadway was one of the most amazing things I've ever done as a performer. But I think at some point I want to break into TV and film. I want to learn as much as I can first, though – start kind of small. A career is a marathon, not a sprint. Every morning I get up and remember that the opportunities I've been given are a blessing."

Taylor Hicks To Appear on American Idol Next Week 4/29/09!

Yes, the shit has hit the fan and pigs really do fly! I can't believe it. The Idol producers decide to the right thing - finally - after 3 friggin' years! After 3 years of snarking on their Season 5 Winner. Yes, Taylor Hicks is returning to where it all started for him - on the American Idol stage. No doubt, he will be satisfying the curiosity of millions of AI watchers who have no idea what he's been up to the last few years. Face it, Americans have their heads in the sand most of the time. They'll be able to see the real Taylor Hicks, the musician, singer and entertainer he has become since he left the Idol stage. He will be returning a new man with a new image - a self confident singer/songwriter/musical theater performer who just released his new album on his own label. No winner can say that. How satisfying, eh? What an accomplishment in my book. No doubt, Ryan will be asking him about his role in the Broadway production and his starring role in the touring company of Grease where he plays Teen Angel. I'm assuming he will get a proper introduction this time (as opposed to his non intro during the Season 6 finale when he sang "Heaven Knows").

He will be singing his new single, the rockin' Seven Mile Breakdown. No word whether Simon Cowell will be singing background vocals (I kid), but I can't wait to see him lay that scowl on his face watching his nemesis on stage. Oh joy joy joy!

Since contestant Danny Gokey's late wife was a big fan of Taylor's, I'm actually interested if they'll get a quick handshake on stage, since he and Taylor have gotten their fair share of comparisons this year (although I see little similarity).

Borrowing a line from his new song, "he's going to tear that old place down and be on his way"........ Alright!

Here's some mentions on the 'net:

Taylor Official Site
Taylor's Myspace Page
Taylor's Twitter Page
Taylor's FaceBook Page

Taylor Hicks Filming Video For New Single "Seven Mile Breakdown"

According to a tweet by director Spence Nicholson, he and Taylor and crew will be filming a video for his new single, Seven Mile Breakdown next Monday, April 27. I'm expecting that to be a 180 degree turn from the video for What's Right is Right in style and presentation. Check out some of Spence's other videos to get an idea of what he's like as a director.

Taylor Hicks - Live Videos from Cafe Du Nord in San Francisco!

There was some major hotness coming from the Cafe du Nord in San Francisco on Wednesday, April 15th. That sexaaay beast, American Idol Season 5 Winner Taylor Hicks cut through the misty fog and hit the stage all ablaze and totally steamed up the room. Taylor, man, you gotta wear your shirts like that more often - you're incredible, and I mean that sincerely! Check out these videos:

Woman's Gotta Have It

Thanks to soulkaren for this video!

My Sweet Lord
Thanks to steveandhaya for this video!

Seven Mile Breakdown

Thanks to Robin4T for this video!

What's Right Is Right

Thanks to KarenZ for this video!

Soul Thing

Thanks to Robin for this video!

Taylor Hicks Outsings Kelly Clarkson on National Anthems

Well, I'm terribly sorry Kelly, I don't care how many 'units' big 'ol Clive has pushed out of you, Taylor Hicks blows your version of the National Anthem right out of the water. It's too bad those 'pitch machines' you use in the recording studio couldn't cover your horribly flat, wobbly notes you sang live at the beginning and those god-awful vocals runs in the middle of the song. Hey, just keepin' it real, baby! You go Taylor and show 'em how it's done .... simple, yet pitch perfect with real feeling and sincerity.

Kelly Clarkson @ Opening Day at Yankee Stadium 4-16-09


Taylor Hicks @ Opening Day at AT&T Stadium (SF Giants) 4-7-09

"Give Me Tonight" Part of Soundtrack for "Skiptracers"

Taylor's song "Give Me Tonight" (remixed) is included in this open audition for the movie "Skiptracers". The film will be shown in 60 Carmike Cinemas, April 20-26 (all in the South). Go to www.skiptracersmovie.com to see the cities the movie will be playing in.

Taylor Hicks - A "Flawless Rendition of the National Anthem"

From the Sacramento Bee:

"...There was "American Idol" winner Taylor Hicks eliciting goose bumps with a flawless national anthem..."


Courtesy of Candy/Skeeter of the Boogie Board!

Click To Enlarge

Taylor Hicks Sings The National Anthem at Giants Home Opener

Courtesy of Candy/Skeeter of the Boogie Board!

Click Image to Enlarge

Taylor Hicks to Sing National Anthem at SF Giant's Home Opener!

On Tuesday, April 7, the Giants will officially embark on their 51st season in San Francisco, 126th campaign in Major League Baseball and 10th season at AT&T Park, when they face the Milwaukee Brewers at 1:05 p.m. Singing the National Anthem will be Season 5 American Idol Winner Taylor Hicks!

Log onto http://www.mlb.tv/ to watch it live!

Taylor Hicks - "The Velvet Voice" of Grease

Another great review for Taylor Hicks from The Spectator, the college newspaper of Chabot College. Enjoy!

Grease has returned to San Francisco, clad with American Idols and sparkling backdrops reminding us of the first time we watched John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John prance across the screen.

The original Broadway production, written by Jim Jacobs and Warren Casey, was nominated for seven Tony Awards. Its revival in 1994 went on to be one of the longest-running shows in Broadway history and inspired one of the most famous musical films of our time.

In case you have never seen the movie, which is nearly impossible, let’s recap. The musical, which the film was based on, follows the contrasting lives of straight-laced Sandy Olsen and rebel without a cause Danny Zuko.

Upon meeting during the summer, the two fall in love expecting to never meet again. However, when Sandy becomes the new girl at Danny’s school, their clashing realities intertwine, forcing both to morph into the mold of the other’s more suitable companion.

Set in late 1950s at Rydell High School, the musical represents the transition from the sexually repressed ‘50s (Sandy) to the tumultuous ‘60s (Danny).

It is a comedy dealing with the all too familiar predicaments of teen love, sex, pregnancy and friendships.

The 2007 revival got its jump start from the critically despised reality show “You’re the One that I Want,” in which the leads for the Broadway show were chosen.

Thankfully for us, neither are playing Danny or Sandy for the tour. Also differentiating itself from previous productions of Grease is the inclusion of four songs that were never on the stage but were in the film version.

Eric Schneider plays Danny with the same energy imagined from Travolta. His voice is reminiscent to the movie star’s, but is not so alike to be a flat out imitation.

For the female lead we have the likeable, but altogether forgettable Emily Padgett. While her voice is strong and hits all the right notes, her portrayal of Sandy is bland, losing what little character she does portray while she sings. The innocence of Sandy and commitment to character was altogether missing, being eventually overshadowed by the supporting female lead, Allie Schulz playing Rizzo.

Stand-outs were definitely Frenchy, played by Kate Morgan Chadwick, and Roger, by Will Blum. Chadwick’s nasal yet raspy voice and her countless failed attempts at being sexy instills much laughter. Blum, while playing a small part, has a voice so crisp you can feel it cut through the air in his duet “Mooning.”

Although Grease features two main characters, the face plastered along the billboards is none other than Taylor Hicks, winner of the fifth season of American Idol. Skeptical at first that his small role was deserving of the advertisement, his performance is possibly the most memorable.

This could be due to the fact that “Beauty School Dropout” is hard to forget in general, adding an Idol joke for a few giggles. His voice truly is the velvet Simon and Paula described and is actually worthy of those posters. Surprisingly, people do still watch Idol, seeing as how a large proportion of the audience were obvious Hicks fans. Fortunately for them Hicks appears after curtain call to perform his latest single.

This is a very classic musical, with rolling props and simple backdrops. Their retro sets allows the actors to be the main focus of the show, unlike flashier musicals with bigger budgets shooting fire into its audiences.

It is not for those who hated the movie, for the musical barely differs and won’t suddenly inspire you to watch Travolta sing falsetto. Beware if you are a fan of the film, for the stage production’s song list and story structure differs, catching you off guard and causes you to slightly resent to change-up.

This Grease is extremely entertaining for the light-hearted and hopelessly devoted fans, but definitely worth trekking out to San Francisco for everyone else.

Hal Eisner Interview-Video with Taylor Hicks - Fox LA

Hollywood (myFOXla.com) - It has been nearly three years since Taylor Hicks became the American Idol of 2006, but he has been keeping busy with a new album and vintage musical. And he has some advice for the current crop of "Idol" hopefuls about the highs and lows of show business.

Look at the video here.