Taylor Hicks Talks Comparisons To Danny Gokey

There may not ever be another leader of the Soul Patrol, but season five "American Idol" champ Taylor Hicks says he doesn't mind being compared to Danny Gokey, the bespectacled season seven fan favorite.

"Well, I'd like think I was just a little bit better dancer," Hicks joked recently to AccessHollywood.com's correspondent Laura "Dish of Salt" Saltman backstage at a taping of Fox Reality Channel's "American Idol Extra."

VIEW THE PHOTOS: 'American Idol' Season 8 Top 13
Gokey earned high praise from judge Simon Cowell but failed to win any points with his dance moves while performing Michael Jackson's "P.Y.T." last week.

Hicks believes it's Gokey's loss of his wife (just months before the audition) that is shaping him as a singer.

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Former 'American Idols'
"He has a distinctive voice and I think it's because of the pain and the loss. Over time experiences show up when you sing as far as when you hear tone. I think that's the reason why he is doing so well."

As for his staying power in the competition Hicks says, "I think he has got a shot to win."

And he offers this advice to Danny, "I think when you are on Idol you have to just go out there with this reckless abandonment. You have to go out there and lay it all out," he said. "You have to dance. You have to sing. You have to move across the stage. People want to see you move. They want to see you go out into the crowd. I think performance is just as big as the vocals."

VIEW THE PHOTOS: Taylor Hicks USO Concert
Hicks can be seen in an upcoming episode of "American Idol Extra" performing "What's Right Is Right," the brand new single off his sophomore album, "The Distance." The album hit stores March 10.

Hicks can also be seen in the national tour of "Grease" as Teen Angel through May 2009.

SOURCE

Taylor Hicks Day! New Album "The Distance" On Sale NOW!!

This is it folks! The day we've all been so anxiously waiting for has finally arrived. Taylor's official musical independence day. "The Distance" is being released on his newly minted own label, Modern Whomp Records with the total creative freedom he has fought for so diligently over the years! We win, Clive! We win Simon! We win American Idol!

Taylor, you have put together a magnificent album, starting with the inspiring title track to the smooth soul sound of What's Right Is Right to the gospel leanings of New Found Freedom to the salsa flavor of Once Upon a Lover to the poignant, beautiful lyrics of Maybe You Should to the 70's soul sound of Woman's Gotta Have It with Elliott Yamin.

I'm proud of Taylor for sticking to his guns, being true to his musical roots and not caving in to the mainstream pressures of a very competitive business. Keep on keeping on, Taylor! We're so proud of you! This album is a keeper and will be spinning on my IPod and in my car for months and years to come!

Order "The Distance" Here

Taylor Hicks Resurfaces With 2nd Post American Idol Album

It's interesting that this Billboard article (and geesh, could they please get a new picture?) mention only 11 tracks on Taylor's new album "The Distance". I suspect 3 songs (Yes We Can, Hide Nor Hair, Indiscriminate Act of Kindness) are 'extras' for ITunes or exclusives for certain outlet stores. Anyway, here it is:

"...Former "American Idol" champ Taylor Hicks returns March 10 with a new album, "The Distance," the follow-up to his lone major-label release.

The album is preceded Jan. 27 by the digital single "What's Right Is Right" and will be released on Hicks' own Modern Whomp Records, with distribution from independent artist services company Artist to Market.

Hicks enlisted Eric Clapton producer Simon Climie for "The Distance," and longtime Clapton collaborators Doyle Bramhall II and Nathan East play on the album. Paul McCartney drummer Abe Laboriel Jr. mans the kit.

Hicks left J following his 2006 self-titled debut for the label, which sold 703,000 copies in the United States, according to Nielsen SoundScan.

Here is the track list for "The Distance":

"Wedding Day Blues,"
"Seven Mile Breakdown,"
"What's Right Is Right"
"Woman's Gotta Have It"
"New Found Freedom"
"The Distance"
"Nineteen"
"I Live on a Battlefield"
"Maybe You Should"
"Once Upon a Lover of Mine"
"Keepin' It Real"

Taylor Hicks New Album "The Distance" On Sale NOW!!!

Yes, folks, the time we've all been waiting for has finally arrived! It's been a bit over 2 years since his Gold and Platinum Certified post American Idol album, Taylor Hicks, arrived on the scene, and we now roll in the era of the newly independent, AI-free Taylor Hicks. The album entitled "The Distance" is being released on his own label, Modern Whomp Records, and is being produced by powerhouse producer, Simon Climie, who's worked with musical greats such as Eric Clapton, BB King and Michael McDonald. "The Distance" will be available on March 10, but you can now pre-order it below. The track list is as follows -"Wedding Day Blues," "Seven Mile Breakdown," "What's Right is Right," "Hide Nor Hair," "Woman Gotta Have It," "New Found Freedom," "The Distance," "Nineteen," "I Live on a Battlefield," "Yes We Can," "Maybe You Should," "Once Upon a Lover of Mine," "Keepin It Real" and "Indiscriminate Act of Kindness."

Today truly IS the dawning of a new era! Run and get your copy today!

The new single, What's Right is Right will be available for purchase on ITunes and Amazon a week from today - January 27th, 2009.

Taylor Hicks - Brand New Interview About His New Album and Starring Role in 'Grease'

Check out this wonderful new Taylor Hicks interview from tvguide.com !! I love the first couple of lines - an unbiased truth about the mutual departure from JRecords. Finally the word is out. Good times, great music and vibes are starting again with the soulman and aren't we glad we've got a front row seat on the bus - the Boogie Bus that is! Also, after you read this piece, do check out TV Guide's new profile of Taylor at http://www.tvguide.com/celebrities/taylor-hicks/280426.

It's been quite a year for Taylor Hicks. After mutually splitting with his record company, Arista, in January, the former American Idol champ took his career into his own hands by starting his own label, Modern Whomp Records, and taking a little music breather to get into acting. And no, there was no From Justin to Kelly monstrosity. Hicks made his Broadway debut in Grease as Teen Angel, the one (role) that he wanted and loved so much that he's joining the musical on a nationwide tour. Before the festivities kick off Dec. 2, the man behind the Soul Patrol chatted with TVGuide.com about jump-starting his acting career, his upcoming, as-yet-untitled album and why he loves working overtime.

TVGuide.com: Let's start at the beginning. How'd you land the role of Teen Angel?
Taylor Hicks: I've been offered to do some parts on Broadway before I took it, but I didn't really want to dive into the theater and acting without starting from a really good point. I wanted to get my feet wet in the acting field and the theatrical field and we wanted to find a role where I'd be able to learn about the process for future acting jobs and this is a great start. Being musical, I'm starting to understand the little nuances and stuff about acting because it's very similar to playing music with its rhythm. It's just in an acting sense instead of musical sense. I'm still learning.

TVGuide.com: How nervous were you about not only making your acting debut, but having it be on Broadway?
Hicks: Oh, yes, I was so nervous! Not only was my first acting gig of [my] life on Broadway, but I was suspended 40 feet in the air, so I wasn't actually on the stage! [Laughs] So, I was definitely feeling a little queasy before I actually opened the cone. To say the least, it was a grand entrance.

TVGuide.com: And now you're gonna be suspended across America. Are you nervous about the tour? It's different going on the same stage every night as opposed to traveling across the country.
Hicks: A little bit, but there are a lot of things I'm excited about. Being able to be with the cast, to do Grease on the road and take it to the different places — places I've never been before — I'm very blessed to have that opportunity to do that.

TVGuide.com: You obviously took a break from music to do this. Was that a conscious choice?
Hicks: I knew that I had to reinvent myself. I think reinvention is key. Being an entertainer, you have to cover all your bases, so to speak. That's something that's allowed to write music for the next record. It allowed me to do a lot of things that wasn't the norm for a standard musician or entertainer. I had the time to write, reflect and obviously try a new venture out.

TVGuide.com: And you started your own label —
Hicks: Yeah, I started Modern Whomp Records. I'm aligned with a distribution company, A2M. It's just a learning process. The inner workings of a label — I'm understanding them. Every label has the standard procedure and practices, so I'm just now learning. I'm excited about that process. Hopefully, it'll allow me to sign other acts in the future too.

TVGuide.com: After you left Arista, did you decide right away you would start your own label or were you looking at other homes?
Hicks: I'd been offered traditional record deals and I just felt like it was best for me to be able to start my own label and partner with distribution. Having your own label really allows you to be out there and have total control of your art and how you want to sell it and how it best fits you. You really live and die by the sword, which I think really makes the artist drive a lot more — drive to succeed.

TVGuide.com: What's the update on your new album?
Hicks: It's coming out Feb. 10. I should have a single the first of the new year. I can honestly say that some of the instincts that I had picking songs on Idol, I was able to use picking songs for this album, which has really been a great experience. I've been able to wrap my artistic expression around these songs and I've had some time to live with these songs and be able to visualize what I want for each of them. I'm really excited about the record because I feel like from the style aspect, nowadays you listen to records that sound very similar on each track, but this album, I wanted to take the listener on a musical journey and touch on the stylings that are reflective of who I am as an artist.

TVGuide.com: How different is it from your first one?
Hicks: There's definitely soul. I think it all starts with soul, but this time around, I think the songs are touching on a lot of different styles that reflect me, so that's different in a way. On the last record, it was kind of an R&B influence. This is my journey as a songwriter. But what's really interesting and cool about it is I'm gonna be able to play my single within the Grease show. It's a very unique aspect. It's like I'm gonna be performing as Teen Angel, but then I'll also be performing my single to the record, so everybody who comes and sees me as Teen Angel can also experience me as a musician.

TVGuide.com: Really?! How is it gonna be incorporated?
Hicks: It's gonna be a big surprise! [Laughs] We're still working the details out. What's even cooler than that is I'll be doing an intimate club tour in each market, hopefully, to be able to start working on this record from a live aspect.

TVGuide.com: When will you start that? After the Grease tour?
Hicks: No, actually, that's gonna be during the Grease tour, like after the shows.

TVGuide.com: Aren't you gonna be exhausted?
Hicks: This business isn't for the faint of heart! [Laughs] Yeah, it's a lot of work, but at the same time, it's very fulfilling from a creative aspect. It's like the time is now.

New Audioblog From Taylor Hicks! In the Studio Now!

Taylor's new audioblog. He said he's been recording all week and the message he sent today came directly from the isobooth in the studio - reverb and all! Take a listen -

Taylor Hicks in Pre-Production For New CD Due Out Feb. 10, 2009

Taylor posted this audio blog from France (where he is doing some pre-production with producer Simon Climie) on his myspace for his new album with some interesting background music! How crisp and clear and hauntingly wonderful it sounds! I hope that we get a full studio recording of a song from the album on or before he debuts it with the Grease show Dec. 2 in Providence, Rhode Island! This new CD is definitely going to rock some ass I do believe!

Simon Climie, The Songwriter

As many of you know by now, Taylor's working with Simon Climie as his producer on his upcoming CD. I was doing a bit of web surfing, and discovered that Simon co-wrote a song for one of my other "Idols" back when I was just a tyke - David Cassidy. Recently, David put out a new album called "Old Trick New Dog", and one of my favorite songs from that album, "No Bridge I Wouldn't Cross" was co-written by none other than Simon Climie. Now, I don't know if Simon wrote any songs for Taylor's album or whether he and Taylor collaborated on any song, but it's a great pop song - maybe too pop for Taylor, but I love it. Take a listen and tell me what you think...



Other songs by Simon Climie can be found here.

Taylor Hicks Mention on the American Idol Website

I wonder how much A2M Records or Taylor's publicist had to pay them to have Taylor included in their news section? You know darn well they wouldn't promote him out of the goodness of their heart. Anyway, nice mention, nice picture. I'll take it.

From Christmas to Country, the season five Idols are still making headlines in music news. Billboard reports that Elliott Yamin’s holiday album, My Kind of Holiday, dropped just last week on 10/7. The album reportedly gives some holiday classics the funky, soulful spin for which Elliott is known. Taylor Hicks has aligned with Artist to Market, the artist services company, for the release of his next album, which is due out February 10, 2009. Those who fell in love with Taylor by seeing him perform live on AI will also be glad to know that he is releasing "Whomp at the Warfield," a live DVD taped at a San Francisco venue. Kellie Pickler proves that her successful debut album wasn't just beginner's luck, as her sophomore self-titled CD debuted at #1 on Top Country Albums and #9 on The Billboard 200. Kellie is the sixth artist in the Nielsen SoundScan era to debut at #1 with her first two studio albums. All of her predecessors were female, one of whom was Carrie Underwood. By entering the country chart at #1, Kellie's second album is the 205th chart-topper to come from American Idol.

New Album By Taylor Hicks Drops Feb. 10, 2009

Welp, here we go gang! Put on your seatbelts because we're gearing up for the next chapter in the wild ride that is Taylor Hicks! He's off to start pre-production on his new CD in Nice, France, where his producer, Simon Climie, lives. Thursday morning, he gave an interview with Alec Harvey where he was giddy with excitement over his yet unnamed album on A2M Records . New information includes the showcasing of his first single from the album in every show he performs in on the Grease tour. That tour will last from December '08 to early June of '09! Details on the how and where he inserts his song into the show is still unclear, but I suspect it will be an add-on after the Grease performance is finished. Boy, leave it to Taylor to come up with such an innovative and unique marketing tool and intertwining both his role in Grease as Teen Angel and publicizing the CD to a new audience. How does he come up with this stuff? All I know is that you cannot knock him off his feet and he is made from some pretty tough cloth. He knows what he wants and goes out and *GETS* it, despite obstacles and the road blocks that no doubt always come up. I really admire that determination. From now on, I will never second guess his choices regarding his career. He's got it absolutely under control. Next time you have a doubt, direct all questions and concerns to the wholey owned company called Mr. Taylor Hicks, Inc.!

The article reads...

"Taylor Hicks is rarely at a loss for words.

But he's had to contain himself this year, hearing and reading that his 800,000-unit-selling self-titled CD was a one-shot deal. That he wouldn't sign another record deal. That the 2006 "American Idol" was through.

"It's about driven me crazy to hold my tongue," Hicks says. "I've wanted to talk about this for three months, but I've been patient and trying to be smart about choosing my battles."

The battle, it seems, is over.

Hicks, who turned 32 on Tuesday, announced on his birthday that he had signed a deal to release his new CD in February 2009. It'll be on his own Modern Whomp Records label through Artist to Market (A2M), which gives the Birmingham native control over his recording destiny.

"I was offered a plethora of record deals, some traditional record deals and some non-traditional record deals," Hicks says. "It's been very hard not to just hop on the first one that was offered, but during that time when there was a lot more speculation that I might never sign one again, it couldn't have been further from the truth."

He calls the A2M deal "very cutting edge."

"In today's marketplace, having the control as the artist is key," Hicks says. "I'm in control of where I spend my marketing dollars, who I want to record with, and in control of the companies I hire out. It allows me a really focused release. Basically, I am my own record label."

What that means for the upcoming CD is that the bulk of it will be written or co-written by Hicks, who cut his musical teeth in bars in and around Birmingham.

"I've always been a singer-songwriter, and that's going to be able to surface a lot more than it did on the last record," he says. "On the last one, things had to move at such a quick pace that the actual art of songwriting couldn't really be seen on the last record."

Hicks is in pre-production of the CD now, working with producer Simon Climie (Eric Clapton, Carlos Santana, Faith Hill) in the studio.

"I don't have a title for it, yet," Hicks says. "I'm kind of waiting for it to hit me."

Announcement of the new record deal comes just after Hicks' stint in the Broadway production of "Grease" comes to an end, and just before he hits the road as that show's Teen Angel for the national tour beginning Dec. 1.

"It was such a success and such a great way for me to learn a new craft," Hicks says of his Broadway debut. "I feel like if I'm going to have longevity in the entertainment industry, I've got to cover all aspects. I have to reinvent myself."
The national tour of "Grease" will offer a unique hybrid for Hicks, he says.

"We're going to cross-promote this record with the 'Grease' tour," he says. "I'll be allowed to perform my single in the show on tour."

Most importantly, it offers fans a chance to experience Hicks live, which he says is crucial to his success.

"There's such a live aspect to me," he says. "You put me on the radio, and you can't see me, you can't feel me, you can't touch me, so it's easy to count me out in that regard. On the road, that's where you really make your mark and have your longevity."

So don't count Hicks out just yet. He's only getting started, he says, and he doesn't pay attention to the naysayers.

"I hear those things, but I'm not into the talk, I'm into the walk," he says. "

Taylor Hick's Brand New CD "Early Works" - An Overview!

If you haven't picked up your copy of Taylor's new compilation CD "Early Works", what are you waiting for? Don't think you have these songs if you own Taylor's two indie albums "Under the Radar" and "In Your Time". The remastering makes them must haves as far as I'm concerned. Many of the stores are only carrying a few copies (some more than others), and many are already sold out (more inventory is on the way from what I've heard), but it's one collection you should have in your CD library. The sound improvement (re-mastering) is impeccable and makes some songs almost sound like brand new versions! Remember, the CD is available only in your local Target Stores (it's not available on-line anywhere in the U.S. - yet!), so do yourself a favor and treat yourself to this wonderful selection of original music from the best singer/songwriter and most unique winner American Idol has discovered to date (and likely ever will).

Here's my impression of each of the 12 songs:

Soul Thing: Taylor's mantra, his trademark song, the words he lives by. This song makes it 3rd appearance on a CD - "Under The Radar", "Taylor Hicks", and "Early Works". Think he likes this song? I'd say so! This ditty says it all for him - It's A Soul Thing (hey! that's a great name for a blog!) With the remastering, this song just jumps out and hits you in the face! So clear, so beautifully done - it's another favorite of mine and a staple at all of Taylor's live shows.

...I've been traveling all these years,
just barely getting by.
The road can be your friend
Or the devil in disguise.

When the tough get going,
the muses visit me.
Yet in soft, low tones,
they always say to me, say to me,

It ain't no groove thing,
It ain't no country twang,
It's a simple refrain
It's a soul thang...."

The Fall: Ah! Such a beauty! The simplicity of the sentiment and arrangement makes this one a fan favorite. Taylor said this song, about a failing relationship, was only the 2nd or 3rd song he ever wrote in his life. I hope we hear more of this acoustic sound from him on the new album coming up. The hissing from the original is pretty much gone from this copy and its purity just shines through.

Hold On To Your Love: This song also benefits greatly from remastering where the highs are crisper and the lows are clearer. One of my favorite songs from the Under The Radar album. The calypso beats and the uplifting melody are great mood generators. I always thought this would be a great summer release for Taylor. Speaking of which, I can see this and maybe a few others in this collection i.e., Soul Thing and The Fall, making an impact on certain music charts if they were released as singles.

The Deal: Along with "Soul Thing", this is the third appearance of this song on one of Taylor's CD, appearing on "Under The Radar", "Taylor Hicks", and "Early Works". A wonderful mid-tempo ballad with a beautiful arrangement. One of his best compositions.

Heart and Soul: Oh how I love the Hammond B3 organ that runs throughout this song! One of my favorite instruments! This song went through a few changes before settling on this version, most famously the change of title from it's original "Blues and Soul" version. The song captures a live feel which makes it the perfect Taylor Hicks vehicle. A real gem.

In Your Time: This is the first song Taylor claims he ever wrote and has this sort of classic jazzy soft-rock feel to it dating back to somewhere in the mid-70s. Being a child of the 70s, I say this with some authority! The song is distinctive because of the shift in tempo somewhere in the middle where he goes into another zone and heart-achingly cries out in the familiar Taylor growl - "soooooooooth me baby, street light prominade" - a sound you will NOT be hearing on your current Top 40 music station, that I can guarantee you. Awesome song and nicely remastered.

West Texas Sky: This was my least favorite song from the Under the Radar album, but I must say, after really listening to it on this collection, I've decided I love it lyrically - it's about a man taking his dreams on the road. Another totally autobiographical chapter in Taylor's life at the time. I suppose what I didn't love about it initially was that it was weak vocally, which I still maintain (compared to some of the others on the collection), but is still a great addition to the whole story that is on display here.

"...So you're drivin' away these miles
So far away from your southern home
Takin' your charms and dreams to the Golden State
Make your way, seal your fate

That's when you're gone away
Where no one will hear you cry
When you're late For that west Texas sky..."

Somehow: Taylor really lays his insides out here in this gut wrenching tune. Very insightful words of pain from such a young man at the time. His world was less than bright when he wrote this ditty and is expressed brilliantly in the dark lyrics. My favorite on the CD. Along with "Georgia", this is the tune that benefited most from the remastering. His voice was always too low on the "In Your Time" CD, especially toward the end of the song, but here it is brought out and clarified.

"...There’s too many things left to be unsaid,
So I’m in a dark hole,
Sometimes in my head,
But I”m all right,
I’ll get by
Somehow!

You wanna feel their emotions,
Sometimes even hold their hand,
But they’re giving nothin’ in return
To suit their own demands.
And I’m tired, but I’ll get by
Somehow.

Look at the people all around you,
Stabbin’ at your heart,
But you still smile in kindness,
For not knowing who they are.

And their stories have ended,
And they’ve lit up the town,
And it’s time to go home,
As they’re going, they’re layin’ their bodies back down.

There’s too many things left to be unsaid,
Somewhere a dark hole
Sometimes in my head,I’m tired, but I’m all right
And I’ll get by
Somehow..."

Tighten Up: With this song, I figured out why I'm so enamored with Taylor - and that is we have such similiar taste in music. Long before I ever heard of him, I had this song on a few compilation CDs I had put together. I mean, come on, who considers Archie Bell's "Tighten Up" one of the greatest hits of all time? I thought I was the only nut out there until I heard Taylor's version. It's such a tight, funked up version that showcases all of the musicians that played with him in the early days. The musicianship is flawless and just makes you feel great! Taylor Hicks - the young band leader doing his 'thang' here. But Taylor! The song goes way back - way back - even further than your 1973 declaration - it's actually from 1968. And where is the credit to Archie Bell in the linear notes? Should we add that as Taylor mystery #78? Could the song be in the public domain? Someday we'll get an answer to this. But, despite those pressing question marks, it's one of my favorites on the CD - and makes great driving music! The remastering just lights up the song! Brilliant!

Son of a Carpenter: Another lyrically great song from Taylor and quite possibly his first socially aware song. This is the type of stuff I'm looking foward to hearing more of in future recordings. Recently, Taylor said that his new album will be sprinkled with some socially relevant issues and if the song was written today, I'd say it fit the category. I also love the ambivilance of its meaning - exactly who is the son of a carpenter?

"...In the times to short to follow
A man as cold as steel
A work that can only be swallowed
By a fire lit kiln

Now the times are heavy on their shoulders
For the people who pave our ways
No more running for the future
Cause the past is here today

For the son of a carpenter
I can feel your pain
For the son of a carpenter alone again

Decades of sorrow war and grief
And to many things going wrong
The land is wasted and time is running short
For their power ismuch too strong

For the son of a carpenter
I can feel your pain
For the son of a carpenter alone again

He has nothing but to be left alone
His hands and work should willbe carried on
From a third generation son to af uture grandchild
The work of a carpentersmakes the whole world smile

And to many thing going wrong
The land is wasted and timeis running short
For the workof a carpenters will carry on
Carry on..."

My Friend: It's the "impossible to sit still" song on the CD. Just a happy, joyous jam-band ditty that shows off a bit of Taylor's harmonica playing. I always love to hear this tune live as it was recorded here. "Share that smile........ Great job, Taylor!"

Georgia: Last but not least, the song that benefited the most from the restructuring and remastering effort - Taylor's homage to his biggest musical influence, Ray Charles, the beautiful "Georgia on my Mind". I must say that this is perhaps the best interpretation and arrangement of this song that I've ever heard, aside from Mr. Charles himself. It's pure Taylor inside and out, and perfectly delivered. The soul and the gut wrenching, almost gutteral sounds that comes from his inner depths is put on display here. The tweaking of the highs and lows almost makes this live version sound like a new recording as far as I'm concerned. And that sweet harmonica 'crying'. Doesn't get much better than this. Thanks, dude, for painting this beauty with a fresh face. It deserved it - it's just that good.

Taylor Hicks Talks to the Press-Telegram - `Taylorizes' Teen Angel Role

So much GREAT press lately for Taylor!! What a fantastic way to ease his name back into the public consciousness before his brand new album drops in the Fall. Here's an interview he gave the Press Telegram out of Long Beach, CA about his role in Grease, AI and appearing on the Capitol Fourth special on PBS.

After winning "American Idol" a couple years back, Taylor Hicks didn't go on to sell nearly as many records as fellow "Idol" champs Carrie Underwood and Kelly Clarkson.

But the silver-haired singer from Birmingham, Ala., remains upbeat and is following in the footsteps of Season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino ("The Color Purple") by making his Broadway debut in "Grease."

Taylor called from Manhattan on Monday afternoon to talk about his latest gig, which kicked off last Friday.

"It's definitely country come to town," he said of his presence in the Big Apple. "The traffic, all the people and the fast pace that New York is an adjustment. But I love it and I'm starting to become more comfortable with my role in the show."

The role is that of Teen Angel, played by Frankie Avalon in the 1978 movie version, and Taylor gets a nice, big solo in the production.

"The music is classic and the part is a perfect fit," he said. "I couldn't turn down the opportunity to perform on Broadway for the first time."

But don't expect an imitation of Avalon or anyone else. Like everything else he does, the 31-year-old performer said his number has been "Taylorized."

"The great thing about this role is I was able to be Taylor at the same time as Teen Angel," he said. "It allows me to get my feet wet a little bit before I really dive into acting."

He will be living in New York until at least Sept. 6, when his run in the show is due to end. But he will be multitasking all summer: writing songs for a new album planned for later this year and an appearance on "A Capitol Fourth," which airs live on July 4 (on PBS).
Taylor will join such stars as Huey Lewis and Jerry Lee Lewis on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol and he will be performing "This Land is Your Land" as well as songs "Dancing in the Dark" and "Heaven Knows."

"The numbers will be Taylorized," he promised. "You just gotta put as much soul as you can into it."

So what did he think of this season's "Idol" competition and the champion, David Cook?

"I think he's got a great shot to be successful in the pop-rock genre," he said. "He's an accomplished instrumentalist and it was nice to see that on the show this year. I wasn't allowed to play harmonica or guitar."

Taylor's self-titled first album after winning "Idol" reached platinum status but was still considered a disappointment and he parted ways with his record company earlier this year.

I wondered if he felt more pressure to succeed as a former "Idol" champ?

"What's the measuring stick for an `Idol' winner? Is it sales? Everyone has their own opinion," he said. "I'm not worried about it at all. I'm just excited to be an entertainer.

"It is a wild ride (winning `Idol') and it still is. You have to just understand that you've been working as an entertainer for years and want to keep working and you have to re-invent yourself. Some of these things that I'm doing now, it's going to allow me to do that."

Whatever the sales of the upcoming album, Taylor is confident the effort will be better music than his first.

"This time around, I've just had the time to be able to write music," he said. "You're really under the gun to create an album in a short period of time post-`Idol.' With this next album, I'm going to be able to breathe."

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 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 @ Ashville, NC "X-Mas Jam" - Purchase Now!

If you remember back a few years, Taylor Hicks was invited to participate in the 18th Annual Christmas Jam in Ashville, NC in 2006. He sat in with the boys on a couple of songs ('Sugaree' and 'We Shall Be Released') and blew them all away! Well, it is now available as a download (only) at the Music Today website. Price is $14.95 for an MP3 or $16.95 for FLAC. Printable CD Artwork is also available at the same website. The write up and setlist is listed below. Credibility where it counts, fellow Taylor Hicks fans! Don't ever forget that!

Gov’t Mule
X-Mas Jam and Pre-Jam
Asheville Civic Center
Asheville, NC
12.15.06 and 12.16.06

Christmas came early and lasted 2 days for the city of Asheville and those in attendance at The 18th Annual Christmas Jam. Having come from 42 states and as far away as the Czech Republic, the ticket holders to this year's event were about to be overwhelmed with a torrent of talent and list of legends.

The weekend began Friday night at The Orange Peel for the Pre-Jam. Devil Likes It Slow with Branford Marsalis was truly a musical treat to behold. Dave Schools and Randall Bramlett took their turn to the delight of all for Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys and stayed on to welcome Marty Stuart, Taj Mahal, Branford Marsalis, George Porter, Mickey Raphael and a host of others as they closed with Dylan's I Shall Be Released.

Saturday morning saw the Mule crew putting together the final touches for what would be an epic evening of music. As Dave Matthews’ set wrapped up, he and Warren started into Cortez The Killer and as the intensity rose, Matt, Andy and Danny assumed their positions and a full tilt, hard rockin' Cortez made itself known as it roared throughout the arena. Branford Marsalis came to lay his gift at the tree next to Dave Matthews' for a stunning All Along The Watchtower. "Legend" underestimates the talent of Taj Mahal who came to the stage with his Leaving Trunk; a bluesy song that was a first timer for the Mule. Sco-Mule featured the musical stylings of Brendan Bayliss and Dave Schools who remained for Mule with Randall Bramlett.

Sugaree came first as the encore and the band was joined by Marty Stuart, Brendan Bayliss and Taylor Hicks on the harmonica and vocals. For the send off to Christmas Jam 2006, I Shall Be Released was performed with Kevn Kinney, Marty Stuart, Tal Mahal, Randall Bramlett, Ivan Neville and many more. With so many gifts in one weekend, it's almost like having Christmas in December.

Disc 1:
1. Cortez The Killer w/ Dave Matthews
2. All Along The Watchtower w/ Dave Matthews & Branford Marsalis
3. Reggae Soulshine w/ Branford Marsalis
4. Brand New Angel
5. Unring The Bell
6. Leaving Trunk w/ Taj Mahal & Branford Marsalis

Disc 2:
1. Sco-Mule w/ Dave Schools, Brendan Bayliss & Randall Bramlett
2. Mule w/ Dave Schools & Randall Bramlett
3. Sugaree w/ Brendon Bayliss, Marty Stuart & Taylor Hicks
4. I Shall Be Released w/ Marty Stuart, Kevn Kinney, Taylor Hicks, Mike Barnes, Ivan Neville, Brendon Bayliss, Mickey Raphael & Robert Kearns
5. Time To Confess **
6. Three String George **
7. Child Of The Earth **

Disc 3:
1. Devil Likes It Slow with Branford Marsalis **
2. Low Spark Of High Heeled Boys with Dave Schools on Bass and Randall Bramlett on Sax **
3. I Shall Be Released w/ Henry Butler & Ivan Neville on Keys, Mike Barnes & Kenny Vaughn on guitar, Robert Kearns on Bass, Randall Bramlett on Saxophone & Mickey Raphael on Harmonica **

Taylor Hicks And His Plans For 2008!

Taylor gave his fans a pleasant surprise today when he made an unexpected appearance as the 'mystery sidekick' on the Paul Finebaum Show in Birmingham, AL. Paul was out with emergency surgery so Taylor helped fill in for him by answering questions from viewers for about 90 minutes. He was in great spirits and looked great! He talked on a variety of subjects - everything from his golf game to the new CD to his allergies.

Here's my summary of the show:

- Will be playing on a cruise to Italy in late May and possibly be doing some small festivals while there.
- His golf game is improving - now at about a 10 or 11 handicap.
- His NBA Allstar Appearance - he thought it would just a lighthearted event playing with the scorekeepers; instead he had Deon Sanders yelling at the top of his lungs. :)
- He has been able to watch Idol more this year and likes "the Irish girl", Carly.
- He might make an appearance at the Soul Patrol Convention in May but no committment.
- The DVD is a done deal and will be out soon (no specific date given).
- Tour in August (not sure with whom yet).
- Would consider doing a Gospel album at one point in the future (like Elvis), but would need to get more educated in that type of genre.
- New album will be out in September. The direction of the CD has taken a 360 degree turn from the character he thought it would take when he started. He did make it sound like the songs are all written. They (the songs) will dictate how much 'production' is on each song (in answer to whether the album will be acoustic or not). He's not sure yet whether it will be released on an indie or major label but there is definitely interest out there for his 'brand'. As far as a producer, he's going to team up with somebody who he feels will give him a great opportuity to be able to have control over the creative side, but he can't say just yet who it is. He was vague about who the producer will be (him or someone else).
- Biggest difference between making the Clive record and this new one is the time he has to just "write".
- He has an I-Touch with all of his new demos on it that he listens to to get familiar with all the nuances of it, so when it comes time to record he'll be ready to go.
- In addition to this new album, he will have another album out called "Early Works" of all his older songs. CAN YOU BELIEVE THAT???? GAH!!! These songs will be put together in a brand new CD package. No word on whether any unreleased tracks will make it onto the CD. This should be out in the next few months.
- A caller said Ace Young said hello to him and that he 'thinks the world of Taylor'.
- Taylor has talked to Elliott Yamin in the past 2 days about Elliott's mom's passing and that he's doing okay. Elliott has a good support and family around him and he'll pull through fine.

Here is the interview:

Part 1:


Part 2:

Taylor Hicks - New Music On It's Way!!

Welp, we got treated today with a brand new audio blog on Taylor's official website, Taylor Hicks Headquarters!! The boy sounds nice and chipper and well worth a trip over there to hear the latest! If you haven't yet subscribed, I strongly urge you to do so! We're supposed to get sneak previews of Taylor's new music when it's available and first dibs on seating for the 2008 tour! There's also lots of cool video and audio over there so do check it out if you haven't already! I also urge you to check out his Facebook page and sign up as a friend!! Lots of videos and cool stuff over there as well!

And in keeping with this new chapter coming up with the new CD, DVD and tour, here's an awesome version of Gonna Move from the last show on the 2007 tour from Bloomsburg, PA courtesy of Idolwatcher33!

Taylor Hicks Collaborates With Grammy Nominated Writer

More collaboration news leaked out today (thanks MK!) from the Patriot Ledger in Quincy, MA regarding Taylor Hicks and his upcoming album. Seems he's writing with acclaimed songwriter Tom Hambridge, who has quite a long list of credentials and credits to his name. According to Billboard Magazine, "Tom Hambridge is a Grammy nominated producer, singer, songwriter and drummer. He has worked with: Chuck Berry, Buddy Guy, Johnny Winter, Susan Tedeschi, Hank Williams Jr. Delbert Mcclinton and Bo Diddley to name a few. His songs have been recorded by: Lynyrd Skynyrd, George Thorogood, Rodney Atkins, Van Zant, NRBQ, Shemekia Copeland, Joe Nichols, Montgomery Gentry, Delbert McClinton, Keith Anderson and Billy Ray Cyrus to name a few. As a solo artist he has released four critically acclaimed cd's and been featured on the Disney soundtracks of "Cars" and "Rattattoui" Tom was presented with the ASCAP 2007 song of the year award for the hit "Every Time I Hear Your Name".

To hear Tom's music, check out his myspace and his personal website.

Taylor Hicks - Possible Collaborations on New Album?

So, we already know of possible collaborations with Steve Cropper of Stax Records and John Mayer, but now, according to a interview done by Modern Whomp Magazine during the Alabama Hall of Fame ceremony, Taylor informs us of other possible future collaborations. Read on...

MWM: So getting an award like this in your home state, must bring everything up til now full circle for you?

Taylor: Yea, full circle for sure, just as we walk over one now isn't that interesting. The whole deal is a little bit overwhelming. You know, you have all these musicians you've studied over the years and listened to while driving up and down highway 65 that runs north to south...and that's just amazing, I'm real honored to be here.

MWM: So you've played with Cleve Eaton at Open Door, so how was it to...Taylor: You ever heard Cleve?

MWM: Um, actually I have not had the pleasure.

Taylor: I hope Cleve's going to play, because Cleve plays a great bass..man when you play with Cleve your playin on earth and Cleve plays in mars. That is kind of how it goes when you play with Cleve.

MWM: Are there any other inductees tonight that you have been able to play with in your career so far?

Taylor: Me and Donnie Fritts have been talking on the phone for a while now, and him, myself and Billy Bob Thornton may possibly work on some music together.

MWM: So with this next album will there be a large or small variation from the last album?

Taylor: It just depends, at this point I'm deep into the whole creative aspect you know...I am doing a bare bones process right now, just the song is the main key for me right now. Also doing some performances every now and then.

MWM: So at this stage as you strip away the layers, where do you draw from? Where do you get your inspiration?

Taylor: There are many concepts I've been thinking about over the years and I pull from there, you know lines, hooks. Just because you have a thought or feeling in the past does not make it unusable artisticly in the present. That is one of the things I love about good bare bones music it stands the test of time.



For more information and/or subscription information, please visit Modern Whomp Magazine. Editor: Claudia Oakenfull.

For snippets of Billy Bob Thorton music, check out his webpage here. For information about the music of Donnie Fritts, check out his website here.

Taylor Hicks To Write New Album in Nashville, NY & Los Angeles

Happy Superbowl Sunday! We got a treat today from Taylor who gave an update on the progress of his new DVD "Whomp At The Warfield", his public appearances, his upcoming gigs and his new Clive-Free CD which should be out later in the year! Listen to it here: