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{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2020}}
{{distinguish|Tyler Hicks}}
{{short description|American musician}} {{short description|American musician}}
{{distinguish|Tyler Hicks}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2020}}
{{Infobox musical artist {{Infobox musical artist
| name = Taylor Hicks | name = Taylor Hicks
| image = Taylor Hicks.jpg | image = Taylor Hicks.jpg
| caption = Taylor Hicks in the ] motorcade at ] | caption = Hicks in the '']'' motorcade at ] in February 2009
| image_size =
| background = solo_singer | background = solo_singer
| birth_name = Taylor Reuben Hicks<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio">{{cite web |title=Taylor Hicks - Guitarist, Singer, Songwriter |url=https://www.biography.com/people/taylor-hicks-589222 |website=Biography |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190417103242/https://www.biography.com/people/taylor-hicks-589222 |access-date=27 May 2021|archive-date=April 17, 2019 }}</ref>
| birth_name = Taylor Reuben Hicks
| birth_date = {{birth date and age|mf=yes|1976|10|7}}<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio">{{cite web | title=Taylor Hicks Bio| publisher=Biography.com| url=http://www.biography.com/people/taylor-hicks-589222| access-date = December 17, 2012}}</ref> | birth_date = {{birth date and age|mf=yes|1976|10|7}}<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/>
| birth_place = ], U.S. | birth_place = ], U.S.<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/>
| instrument = {{flatlist| | instrument = {{flatlist|
* ] * ]
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* Modern Whomp (2008–present) * Modern Whomp (2008–present)
}} }}
| associated_acts = ] | past_member_of = ]
| website = {{URL|taylorhicks.com}} | website = {{URL|taylorhicks.com}}
}} }}


'''Taylor Reuben Hicks'''<!--<ref> by Wade Kwon for the Scripps Howard News Service, March 17, 2006. Retrieved May 25, 2006.</ref> --> (born October 7, 1976)<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/> is an American singer who won the ] of '']''. Hicks got his start as a professional musician in his late teens and performed around the Southeastern United States for well over the span of a decade, during which he also released two ] albums. Upon winning ''Idol'', he was signed to ], under which his ] was released on December 12, 2006. '''Taylor Reuben Hicks'''<!--<ref> by Wade Kwon for the Scripps Howard News Service, March 17, 2006. Retrieved May 25, 2006.</ref> --> (born October 7, 1976)<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/> is an American singer who won the ] of '']'' in May 2006. Hicks got his start as a professional musician in his late teens and performed around the Southeastern United States for well over the span of a decade, during which he also released two ] albums. Upon winning ''Idol'', he was signed to ], under which his ] was released on December 12, 2006.


His energetic stage performances and influences derived from ], ], and ] music had earned him a following of devout fans dubbed the "Soul Patrol".<ref name=Today>{{cite news |url=https://www.today.com/popculture/taylor-hicks-named-american-idol-wbna12956943 |title=Taylor Hicks is named 'American Idol' |newspaper=Today |agency=AP |date=May 24, 2006 }}</ref> Hicks performed on Broadway in 2008 and on national tour in 2009 in '']'' playing Teen Angel, the role originated by ]. He is the first Idol winner to secure a long-term residency at a Las Vegas casino. He began his residency at Bally's Las Vegas in June 2012 and moved to a larger venue, Paris Las Vegas, in January 2013. In 2016, Hicks began hosting the INSP original series ''State Plate'', and released a new single, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings", in 2017.<ref>{{cite news | last = Halperin | first = Shirley | title = 'American Idol' Taylor Hicks to Take the 'Paris' Stage | publisher = The Hollywood Reporter | date = January 16, 2013 | url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/idol-worship/taylor-hicks-take-paris-stage-412910 | access-date = February 15, 2013 }}</ref> His energetic stage performances and influences derived from ], ], and ] music had earned him a following of devout fans dubbed the "Soul Patrol".<ref name=Today>{{cite news |url=https://www.today.com/popculture/taylor-hicks-named-american-idol-wbna12956943 |title=Taylor Hicks is named 'American Idol' |newspaper=Today |agency=AP |date=May 24, 2006 }}</ref> Hicks performed on Broadway in 2008 and on national tour in 2009 in '']'' playing Teen Angel, the role originated by ]. He is the first Idol winner to secure a long-term residency at a Las Vegas casino. He began his residency at Bally's Las Vegas in June 2012 and moved to a larger venue, Paris Las Vegas, in January 2013. In 2016, Hicks began hosting the INSP original series ''State Plate'', and released a single, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings", in 2017.<ref>{{cite news | last = Halperin | first = Shirley | title = 'American Idol' Taylor Hicks to Take the 'Paris' Stage | publisher = The Hollywood Reporter | date = January 16, 2013 | url = http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/idol-worship/taylor-hicks-take-paris-stage-412910 | access-date = February 15, 2013 }}</ref>


==Early life== ==Early life==
Taylor Hicks was born in ] on October 7, 1976,<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.niagara-gazette.com/nightandday/gnnnightandday_story_242172356.html|title=BACKSTAGE PASS: From Alabama's bars to America's 'Idol'|date=August 30, 2007|publisher=Niagara Gazette|access-date=February 28, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906051112/http://www.niagara-gazette.com/nightandday/gnnnightandday_story_242172356.html|archive-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref> to Bradley Hicks and Pamela Dickinson. He and his family moved to the suburb of ] when he was eight years old. His hair started ] by the time he was 14. His parents divorced, and stepmother Linda shared custody of their son until he ]. Hicks has suggested his difficult childhood as the reason for his turning to ] and ] music for solace.<ref name="Gray Charles">{{cite web | title=Taylor Hicks Bio | publisher= Gray Charles: The Official Taylor Hicks Weblog | url= http://www.graycharles.com/index.php/taylor-hicks-bio/ | access-date=November 23, 2006}}</ref> He has a younger half-brother, Sean, who later convinced him to audition for '']''.<ref>{{cite news | last = Hunter | first = Desiree | title = 'Idol' Standout Hicks Likes Music With Soul | agency = Associated Press | date = May 10, 2006 | url = http://www.townhall.com/news/ap/online/entertainment/tv/D8HGIT700.html&e=15059 | access-date = May 25, 2006 }}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Taylor Hicks was born in ], on October 7, 1976,<ref name="BioTaylorHicksBio"/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.niagara-gazette.com/nightandday/gnnnightandday_story_242172356.html|title=BACKSTAGE PASS: From Alabama's bars to America's 'Idol'|date=August 30, 2007|publisher=Niagara Gazette|access-date=February 28, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906051112/http://www.niagara-gazette.com/nightandday/gnnnightandday_story_242172356.html|archive-date=September 6, 2012}}</ref> to Bradley Hicks and Pamela Dickinson. He and his family moved to the suburb of ] when he was eight years old. His hair started ] by the time he was 14. His parents divorced, and stepmother Linda shared custody of their son until he ]. Hicks has suggested his difficult childhood as the reason for his turning to ] and ] music for solace.<ref name="Gray Charles">{{cite web | title=Taylor Hicks Bio | publisher= Gray Charles: The Official Taylor Hicks Weblog | url= http://www.graycharles.com/index.php/taylor-hicks-bio/ | access-date=November 23, 2006}}</ref> He has a younger half-brother, Sean, who later convinced him to audition for '']''.<ref>{{cite news | last = Hunter | first = Desiree | title = 'Idol' Standout Hicks Likes Music With Soul | agency = Associated Press | date = May 10, 2006 | url = http://www.townhall.com/news/ap/online/entertainment/tv/D8HGIT700.html&e=15059 | access-date = May 25, 2006 }}{{dead link|date=September 2017 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref>


He bought his first harmonica when he was 16, for $2 at a flea market in ],<ref name="Gray Charles"/> and taught himself to play ]. He discovered that he possessed ] when he was able to recognize the ] of ordinary noises and mimic them on the harmonica.<ref>{{cite news | last = Graff | first = Gary | title = Unlikely 'idol' content with his prospects | publisher = New York Times Syndicate | date = August 11, 2006 | url = http://www.columbusdispatch.com/features-story.php?story=dispatch/2006/08/11/20060811-D1-03.html | access-date = August 12, 2006 }}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Hicks was 18 when he wrote his first song, "In Your Time", and he taught himself to play electric guitar and the church organ when he was 19.<ref> He bought his first harmonica when he was 16, for $2 at a flea market in ],<ref name="Gray Charles"/> and taught himself to play ]. He discovered that he possessed ] when he was able to recognize the ] of ordinary noises and mimic them on the harmonica.<ref>{{cite news | last = Graff | first = Gary | title = Unlikely 'idol' content with his prospects | publisher = New York Times Syndicate | date = August 11, 2006 | url = http://www.columbusdispatch.com/features-story.php?story=dispatch/2006/08/11/20060811-D1-03.html | access-date = August 12, 2006 }}{{dead link|date=January 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Hicks was 18 when he wrote his first song, "In Your Time", and he taught himself to play electric guitar and the church organ when he was 19.<ref>
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==Career== ==Career==
===Independent music=== ===Independent music===
{{listen|filename=Taylorhicksthefall30.ogg|title="The Fall" excerpt|description="The Fall" is an ] ballad about a painful, failed relationship.<ref>{{cite news | last = Trachtenberg | first = Robert | title = Bachelor No. 1: Taylor Hicks Lets Loose | pages = 68–77 | publisher = ] | date = June 26, 2006}}</ref>|format=]}}While in college, Hicks was part of a band called Passing Through, which he later quit to start his own band.<ref name="NYT06">{{cite news | last = Newsome | first = Melba | title = Overnight Star? Well, It's Been a Long Night | work = The New York Times | date = December 10, 2006 | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/10/arts/music/10news.1.html | access-date = December 11, 2006 }}</ref> In 1997, he independently recorded ''In Your Time'', an album which included both studio and live tracks. In 2000, he moved to pursue a music career in Nashville, Tennessee, where he worked with Nashville veterans ] and ]<ref name=GrayCharles>Taylor Hicks Bio</ref> to record a three-track demo but was unable to find a label that would sign him. He left Nashville after a year due to what he called the "oversaturation of the market".<ref>{{cite news | last = Colurso | first = Mary | title = Taylor-Made Trivia | publisher = The Birmingham News | date = March 28, 2006 | url = http://community.livejournal.com/taylor_hicks/35765.html | access-date = December 6, 2006 }}</ref> Hicks returned to Alabama and launched a professional music career, performing at various venues and parties mostly around the Southeastern United States, including The War Eagle Supper Club (a popular college bar) in ].<ref>{{cite news | last = Simmons | first = Darryn | title = Fans of Taylor Hicks hope Birmingham native grabs 'Idol' title | publisher = Montgomery Advertiser | date = March 7, 2006 | url = http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060307/ENT/603070310/1005 | access-date = July 30, 2006 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060522134744/http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20060307%2FENT%2F603070310%2F1005 | archive-date = May 22, 2006 | url-status=dead }}</ref> Hicks has performed with the likes of ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://wbhm.org/Tapestry/bands/TaylorHicks.html |title=WBHM Interview with Taylor Hicks |access-date=January 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070113165658/http://www.wbhm.org/Tapestry/bands/TaylorHicks.html |archive-date=January 13, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> He also performed in the huge infield of ] in 2004 during a ] race weekend.<ref>{{cite news | last = Wackerlin | first = Jeff | title = Idol Winner Has NASCAR Ties | publisher = Racing One | date = May 24, 2006 | url = http://www.racingone.com/article.asp?artnum=28352 | access-date = January 14, 2007 }} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref> {{listen|filename=Taylorhicksthefall30.ogg|title="The Fall" excerpt|description="The Fall" is an ] ballad about a painful, failed relationship.<ref>{{cite news | last = Trachtenberg | first = Robert | title = Bachelor No. 1: Taylor Hicks Lets Loose | pages = 68–77 | publisher = ] | date = June 26, 2006}}</ref>|format=]}}While in college, Hicks was part of a band called Passing Through, which he later quit to start his own band.<ref name="NYT06">{{cite news | last = Newsome | first = Melba | title = Overnight Star? Well, It's Been a Long Night | work = The New York Times | date = December 10, 2006 | url = https://www.nytimes.com/2006/12/10/arts/music/10news.1.html | access-date = December 11, 2006 }}</ref> In 1997, he independently recorded ''In Your Time'', an album which included both studio and live tracks. In 2000, he moved to pursue a music career in Nashville, Tennessee, where he worked with Nashville veterans ] and ]<ref name=GrayCharles>Taylor Hicks Bio</ref> to record a three-track demo but was unable to find a label that would sign him. He left Nashville after a year due to what he called the "oversaturation of the market".<ref>{{cite news | last = Colurso | first = Mary | title = Taylor-Made Trivia | publisher = The Birmingham News | date = March 28, 2006 | url = http://community.livejournal.com/taylor_hicks/35765.html | access-date = December 6, 2006 }}</ref> Hicks returned to Alabama and launched a professional music career, performing at various venues and parties mostly around the Southeastern United States, including The War Eagle Supper Club (a popular college bar) in ].<ref>{{cite news | last = Simmons | first = Darryn | title = Fans of Taylor Hicks hope Birmingham native grabs 'Idol' title | publisher = Montgomery Advertiser | date = March 7, 2006 | url = http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20060307/ENT/603070310/1005 | access-date = July 30, 2006 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060522134744/http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20060307%2FENT%2F603070310%2F1005 | archive-date = May 22, 2006 | url-status=dead }}</ref> Hicks has performed with the likes of ], ], ], ], ], ], ] and ].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://wbhm.org/Tapestry/bands/TaylorHicks.html |title=WBHM Interview with Taylor Hicks |access-date=January 13, 2007 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070113165658/http://www.wbhm.org/Tapestry/bands/TaylorHicks.html |archive-date=January 13, 2007 |url-status=dead}}</ref> He also performed in the huge infield of ] in 2004 during a ] race weekend.<ref>{{cite news | last = Wackerlin | first = Jeff | title = Idol Winner Has NASCAR Ties | publisher = Racing One | date = May 24, 2006 | url = http://www.racingone.com/article.asp?artnum=28352 | access-date = January 14, 2007 }} {{Dead link|date=October 2010|bot=H3llBot}}</ref>


He recorded, produced, and released a second album, ''Under the Radar'', in 2005. Despite releasing two albums prior to appearing on ''American Idol'', he did not violate their requirements for contestants, as he had never held a recording contract.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.taylorhicks.com |title=Official Taylor Hicks Website|publisher=Taylorhicks.com |access-date=January 13, 2007 }}</ref> He recorded, produced, and released a second album, ''Under the Radar'', in 2005. Despite releasing two albums prior to appearing on ''American Idol'', he did not violate their requirements for contestants, as he had never held a recording contract.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.taylorhicks.com |title=Official Taylor Hicks Website|publisher=Taylorhicks.com |access-date=January 13, 2007 }}</ref>
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Hicks was named the new American Idol on May 24, 2006,<ref name=Today/> winning the title over McPhee, with over 63.4&nbsp;million votes cast in total. The proclamation was aired to a worldwide audience of 200 million television viewers.<ref>{{cite video | people = Hart, Mary (reporter) | medium = TV series | title = Entertainment Tonight | date = May 25, 2006 }}</ref> With his win at age 29, Hicks became the oldest contestant to win ''American Idol''. He was also the first male contestant to win the competition without ever being in the bottom two or three. Hicks was named the new American Idol on May 24, 2006,<ref name=Today/> winning the title over McPhee, with over 63.4&nbsp;million votes cast in total. The proclamation was aired to a worldwide audience of 200 million television viewers.<ref>{{cite video | people = Hart, Mary (reporter) | medium = TV series | title = Entertainment Tonight | date = May 25, 2006 }}</ref> With his win at age 29, Hicks became the oldest contestant to win ''American Idol''. He was also the first male contestant to win the competition without ever being in the bottom two or three.


In June 2006, ], the show's major sponsor, signed Hicks to promote Ford's "Drive on Us" year-end sales event.<ref>{{cite press release | title = Ford signs American Idol winner Taylor Hicks to star in national advertising | publisher = Ford Motor Company and he ended up getting his very own Ford Mustang convertible off of this. | date = June 14, 2006 | url = http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23630 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060624045749/http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23630 | url-status=dead | archive-date = June 24, 2006 | access-date = January 13, 2007 }}</ref> He was also named Hottest Bachelor by ] for 2006, appearing on the magazine's cover.<ref>{{cite news | title = 'American Idol' Winner Taylor Hicks Is The Most Eligible Bachelor | publisher = World Entertainment News Network | date = June 15, 2006 | url = http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2006/06/15/american_idol_winner_taylor_hicks_is_the/ | access-date = July 22, 2006 }}</ref> In June 2006, ], the show's major sponsor, signed Hicks to promote Ford's "Drive on Us" year-end sales event.<ref>{{cite press release | title = Ford signs American Idol winner Taylor Hicks to star in national advertising | publisher = Ford Motor Company and he ended up getting his very own Ford Mustang convertible off of this. | date = June 14, 2006 | url = http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23630 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20060624045749/http://media.ford.com/newsroom/release_display.cfm?release=23630 | url-status=dead | archive-date = June 24, 2006 | access-date = January 13, 2007 }}</ref> He was also named Hottest Bachelor by ] for 2006, appearing on the magazine's cover.<ref>{{cite news | title = 'American Idol' Winner Taylor Hicks Is The Most Eligible Bachelor | publisher = World Entertainment News Network | date = June 15, 2006 | url = http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2006/06/15/american_idol_winner_taylor_hicks_is_the/ | access-date = July 22, 2006 | archive-date = February 21, 2007 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070221191741/http://www.starpulse.com/news/index.php/2006/06/15/american_idol_winner_taylor_hicks_is_the/ | url-status = dead }}</ref>


{| class="wikitable" {| class="wikitable"
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Hicks joined his fellow Top 10 ''Idol'' finalists on the ] which ran from July to September. The members of the former Taylor Hicks Band, formed by Hicks two years prior, regrouped as the ] and shadowed the Idols' tour route. Hicks occasionally appeared as a "special guest" when circumstances permitted, and was accompanied at times by the other Idols, such as ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite news | last = Colurso | first = Mary | title = Taylor Comes Home | publisher = The Birmingham News | date = August 6, 2006 | url = http://www.al.com/entertainment/birminghamnews/index.ssf?/base/entertainment/1154856322240230.xml&coll=2&thispage=1 | access-date = December 22, 2006 | url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930013205/http://www.al.com/entertainment/birminghamnews/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fentertainment%2F1154856322240230.xml&coll=2&thispage=1 | archive-date = September 30, 2007 }}</ref> Hicks joined his fellow Top 10 ''Idol'' finalists on the ] which ran from July to September. The members of the former Taylor Hicks Band, formed by Hicks two years prior, regrouped as the ] and shadowed the Idols' tour route. Hicks occasionally appeared as a "special guest" when circumstances permitted, and was accompanied at times by the other Idols, such as ], ], ], and ].<ref>{{cite news | last = Colurso | first = Mary | title = Taylor Comes Home | publisher = The Birmingham News | date = August 6, 2006 | url = http://www.al.com/entertainment/birminghamnews/index.ssf?/base/entertainment/1154856322240230.xml&coll=2&thispage=1 | access-date = December 22, 2006 | url-status=dead | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930013205/http://www.al.com/entertainment/birminghamnews/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fentertainment%2F1154856322240230.xml&coll=2&thispage=1 | archive-date = September 30, 2007 }}</ref>


In August 2006, Hicks's lawyers sued a producer with whom he worked in Nashville, for redistributing without permission songs that Hicks had copyrighted in 1997. The lawsuit was dropped when the masters were handed over to Hicks.<ref>{{cite news | last = Harris | first = Chris| title = Taylor Hicks Files Suit To Halt Digital Release Of Early Recordings | url = http://www.cmt.com/artists/news/1539310/08242006/hicks__taylor.jhtml | publisher = ] | date = August 26, 2006 | access-date = November 1, 2006}}</ref> In August 2006, Hicks's lawyers sued a producer with whom he worked in Nashville, for redistributing without permission songs that Hicks had copyrighted in 1997. The lawsuit was dropped when the masters were handed over to Hicks.<ref>{{cite news | last = Harris | first = Chris| title = Taylor Hicks Files Suit To Halt Digital Release Of Early Recordings | url = http://www.cmt.com/artists/news/1539310/08242006/hicks__taylor.jhtml | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20070930024455/http://www.cmt.com/artists/news/1539310/08242006/hicks__taylor.jhtml | url-status = dead | archive-date = September 30, 2007 | publisher = ] | date = August 26, 2006 | access-date = November 1, 2006}}</ref>


Hicks received a US$750,000 deal to write his memoir.<ref>{{cite news | last = Silverman | first = Stephen M. | title = Taylor Hicks Prepares Memoir, Billboard | publisher = ] | date = August 4, 2006 | url = http://people.aol.com/people/article/0,26334,1222950,00.html | access-date = January 13, 2007 }}</ref> Titled ''Heart Full of Soul: An Inspirational Memoir About Finding Your Voice and Finding Your Way'' and ghostwritten by ''Rolling Stone'' writer David Wild, the book was released in July 2007 by ]. Hicks received a US$750,000 deal to write his memoir.<ref>{{cite news | last = Silverman | first = Stephen M. | title = Taylor Hicks Prepares Memoir, Billboard | publisher = ] | date = August 4, 2006 | url = http://people.aol.com/people/article/0,26334,1222950,00.html | access-date = January 13, 2007 | archive-date = January 11, 2020 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200111203430/http://people.aol.com/people/article/0,26334,1222950,00.html | url-status = dead }}</ref> Titled ''Heart Full of Soul: An Inspirational Memoir About Finding Your Voice and Finding Your Way'' and ghostwritten by ''Rolling Stone'' writer David Wild, the book was released in July 2007 by ].


On June 6, 2008, Hicks joined the cast of the Broadway musical ''Grease'' in the ]. He played the role of "Teen Angel."<ref>{{cite news| title = Taylor Hicks Joins 'Grease' as 'Teen Angel'| url = http://broadwayworld.com/article/Photo_Coverage_Taylor_Hicks_Joins_Grease_as_Teen_Angel_20080609 | publisher =Broadway World| date = August 26, 2006 | access-date = November 1, 2006}}</ref> Once his 18-month tour in the traveling Broadway show 'Grease' ended, Hicks performed in over 20 live shows. On June 6, 2008, Hicks joined the cast of the Broadway musical ''Grease'' in the ]. He played the role of "Teen Angel".<ref>{{cite news| title = Taylor Hicks Joins 'Grease' as 'Teen Angel'| url = http://broadwayworld.com/article/Photo_Coverage_Taylor_Hicks_Joins_Grease_as_Teen_Angel_20080609 | publisher =Broadway World| date = August 26, 2006 | access-date = November 1, 2006}}</ref> Once his 18-month tour in the traveling Broadway show 'Grease' ended, Hicks performed in over 20 live shows.


===2006–2008: ''Taylor Hicks'' and ''Early Works''=== ===2006–2008: ''Taylor Hicks'' and ''Early Works''===
Studio recording sessions for the eponymous major label debut '']'' ran in ] between October and November 2006, and took six weeks in total.<ref>{{cite podcast| url = http://www.paulandyoungron.com/cc-common/podcast.html | title = Interview on the Paul and Young Ron Show | host = Paul and Young Ron Studio recording sessions for the eponymous major label debut '']'' ran in ], between October and November 2006, and took six weeks in total.<ref>{{cite podcast| url = http://www.paulandyoungron.com/cc-common/podcast.html | title = Interview on the Paul and Young Ron Show | host = Paul and Young Ron
| date = November 21, 2006 | access-date = November 22, 2006 }}</ref> The album was released on December 12, 2006, and debuted at the number two spot on the ] charts.<ref>{{cite news | last = Cohen | first = Jonathan | title = Taylor Hicks Unveils 2007 Tour Plans | publisher = Billboard | date = December 27, 2006 | url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/56351/taylor-hicks-unveils-2007-tour-plans | access-date = December 28, 2006 }}</ref> It was certified as a ] by the RIAA on January 17, 2007.<ref>{{cite press release| quote = Hicks is the only artist to win American Idol that has not had an album reach one million sales.| title = American Idol Champ Taylor Hicks's Self Titled Debut Album is Certified Platinum by the RIAA| publisher = ]| date = January 17, 2007| url = http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/070117/nyw118.html?.v=86| access-date = January 18, 2007 }}</ref> Hicks embarked on a three-month US promotional tour for his album that started on February 21 in ], and ended in ], Washington on May 12.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kilgore |first=Kim |title=Taylor Hicks Rolls out Album, Tour Dates |publisher=Live Daily |date=December 12, 2006 |url=http://www.livedaily.com/news/11174.html?t=104 |access-date=December 22, 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070104121921/http://www.livedaily.com/news/11174.html?t=104 |archive-date=January 4, 2007}}</ref> | date = November 21, 2006 | access-date = November 22, 2006 }}</ref> The album was released on December 12, 2006, and debuted at the number two spot on the ] charts.<ref>{{cite news | last = Cohen | first = Jonathan | title = Taylor Hicks Unveils 2007 Tour Plans | publisher = Billboard | date = December 27, 2006 | url = http://www.billboard.com/articles/news/56351/taylor-hicks-unveils-2007-tour-plans | access-date = December 28, 2006 }}</ref> It was certified as a ] by the RIAA on January 17, 2007.<ref>{{cite press release| quote = Hicks is the only artist to win American Idol that has not had an album reach one million sales.| title = American Idol Champ Taylor Hicks's Self Titled Debut Album is Certified Platinum by the RIAA| publisher = ]| date = January 17, 2007| url = http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/070117/nyw118.html?.v=86| access-date = January 18, 2007 }}</ref> Hicks embarked on a three-month US promotional tour for his album that started on February 21 in ], and ended in ], Washington on May 12.<ref>{{cite news |last=Kilgore |first=Kim |title=Taylor Hicks Rolls out Album, Tour Dates |publisher=Live Daily |date=December 12, 2006 |url=http://www.livedaily.com/news/11174.html?t=104 |access-date=December 22, 2006 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070104121921/http://www.livedaily.com/news/11174.html?t=104 |archive-date=January 4, 2007}}</ref>


Arista Records confirmed in January 2008 that it had dropped Hicks from its roster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.today.com/id/22544644/ns/today-today_entertainment/t/idol-winner-taylor-hicks-loses-record-deal/|title='Idol' winner Taylor Hicks loses record deal|website=Today|date=January 7, 2008 |access-date=December 6, 2019}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |last=Baldwin |first=Kristen |url=https://ew.com/article/2008/01/03/two-idol-winner/|title=Taylor Hicks, Ruben Studdard dropped from J Records?|website=Entertainment Weekly|date=January 3, 2008 |access-date=December 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221133709/http://hollywoodinsider.ew.com/2008/01/two-idol-winner.html |archive-date=February 21, 2009}}</ref> Hicks had, at that stage, the lowest selling American Idol winner's album. Arista Records confirmed in January 2008 that it had dropped Hicks from its roster.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.today.com/id/22544644/ns/today-today_entertainment/t/idol-winner-taylor-hicks-loses-record-deal/|title='Idol' winner Taylor Hicks loses record deal|website=Today|date=January 7, 2008|access-date=December 6, 2019|archive-date=December 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191206055753/http://www.today.com/id/22544644/ns/today-today_entertainment/t/idol-winner-taylor-hicks-loses-record-deal/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite magazine |last=Baldwin |first=Kristen |url=https://ew.com/article/2008/01/03/two-idol-winner/|title=Taylor Hicks, Ruben Studdard dropped from J Records?|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|date=January 3, 2008 |access-date=December 6, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221133709/http://hollywoodinsider.ew.com/2008/01/two-idol-winner.html |archive-date=February 21, 2009}}</ref> Hicks had, at that stage, the lowest selling American Idol winner's album.


As of June 2008, Hicks has signed a distribution deal with Vanguard/Welk records to distribute a compilation album ''Early Works''. He also starred in '']'' in the national tour as the Teen Angel after playing the role on Broadway.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.broadway.com/Taylor-Hicks-Signs-On-for-National-Tour-of-Grease/broadway_news/570994 |title=Taylor Hicks Signs On for National Tour of Grease |publisher=Broadway.com |date=February 20, 2010}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nypost.com/seven/06202008/tv/hicks_finds_niche_116267.htm |title=Hicks Finds Niche |publisher=NYPOST.com |date=June 20, 2008 |access-date=February 20, 2010}}</ref> '']'' was released on August 12, 2008. In 2008, Hicks signed a distribution deal with Vanguard/Welk records to distribute a compilation album ''Early Works''. He also starred in '']'' in the national tour as the Teen Angel after playing the role on Broadway.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.broadway.com/Taylor-Hicks-Signs-On-for-National-Tour-of-Grease/broadway_news/570994 |title=Taylor Hicks Signs On for National Tour of Grease |publisher=Broadway.com |date=February 20, 2010}}</ref> '']'' was released on August 12, 2008.


===2009–present: ''The Distance''=== ===2009–present: ''The Distance''===
In 2009 Hicks released his second album, '']'', on his own label, Modern Whomp Records, on March 10, 2009. The first single, "]", was added to AC adds on January 27, 2009. The single reached number 24 on Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks. It was produced by ] and ]. In 2009 Hicks released his second album, '']'', on his own label, Modern Whomp Records, on March 10, 2009. The first single, "]", was added to AC adds on January 27, 2009. The single reached number 24 on Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks. It was produced by ] and ].


In May 2009, Taylor Hicks made '']''' "Top Ten earning American Idol stars" list, coming in at number 10, with over $300,000 earned from album sales and from his role as "Teen Angel" in the national tour of '']''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/money/galleries/which_american_idol_stars_make_the_most_loot_/which_american_idol_stars_make_the_most_loot_.html#ph2 |title=Forbes: Which American Idol stars rake in the most loot? |publisher=Nydailynews.com |date= May 26, 2009|access-date=February 20, 2010 | location=New York}}</ref> In May 2009, Taylor Hicks made '']''' "Top Ten earning American Idol stars" list, coming in at number 10, with over $300,000 earned from album sales and from his role as "Teen Angel" in the national tour of '']''.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.nydailynews.com/money/galleries/which_american_idol_stars_make_the_most_loot_/which_american_idol_stars_make_the_most_loot_.html#ph2 |title=Forbes: Which American Idol stars rake in the most loot? |publisher=Nydailynews.com |date= May 26, 2009|access-date=February 20, 2010 | location=New York}}</ref>
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In May 2011, Taylor Hicks opened ORE Drink and Dine restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama. Birmingham Magazine readers voted ORE as Birmingham's "Best New Restaurant" in the fall of 2011.<ref>{{cite news | last = Whitley | first = Carla Jean | title = A Star is Born | publisher = Birmingham magazine | date = October 6, 2011 | url = http://blog.al.com/birmingham-buzz/2011/10/a_star_is_born.html | access-date = January 8, 2012 }}</ref> ORE Drink and Dine re-opened as Saw's Juke Joint, a barbecue and live music bar, on October 30, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carlton|first=Bob|title=Taylor Hicks partners with Saw's BBQ founder to open Saw's Juke Joint in former Ore location|url=http://www.al.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/10/taylor_hicks_partners_with_saw.html|access-date=November 20, 2012|newspaper=Birmingham News|date=October 30, 2012}}</ref> In May 2011, Taylor Hicks opened ORE Drink and Dine restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama. Birmingham Magazine readers voted ORE as Birmingham's "Best New Restaurant" in the fall of 2011.<ref>{{cite news | last = Whitley | first = Carla Jean | title = A Star is Born | publisher = Birmingham magazine | date = October 6, 2011 | url = http://blog.al.com/birmingham-buzz/2011/10/a_star_is_born.html | access-date = January 8, 2012 }}</ref> ORE Drink and Dine re-opened as Saw's Juke Joint, a barbecue and live music bar, on October 30, 2012.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carlton|first=Bob|title=Taylor Hicks partners with Saw's BBQ founder to open Saw's Juke Joint in former Ore location|url=http://www.al.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/10/taylor_hicks_partners_with_saw.html|access-date=November 20, 2012|newspaper=Birmingham News|date=October 30, 2012}}</ref>


On June 14, 2011, Taylor Hicks performed at Bama Rising: A Benefit Concert For Alabama Tornado Recovery at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. According to ''Billboard'', the Bama Rising benefit concert raised an estimated $2.2 million for Alabama tornado relief efforts.<ref>{{cite news | last = Waddell | first = Ray | title = Alabama, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow Help Bama Rising Raise Over $2 Million For Tornado Benefit | publisher = Billboard | date = June 15, 2011 | url = http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/genre/country/alabama-brad-paisley-sheryl-crow-help-bama-1005237452.story | access-date = January 8, 2012 }}</ref> On June 14, 2011, Taylor Hicks performed at Bama Rising: A Benefit Concert For Alabama Tornado Recovery at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. According to ''Billboard'', the Bama Rising benefit concert raised an estimated $2.2 million for Alabama tornado relief efforts.<ref>{{cite news | last = Waddell | first = Ray | title = Alabama, Brad Paisley, Sheryl Crow Help Bama Rising Raise Over $2 Million For Tornado Benefit | publisher = Billboard | date = June 15, 2011 | url = http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/genre/country/alabama-brad-paisley-sheryl-crow-help-bama-1005237452.story | access-date = January 8, 2012 | archive-date = August 4, 2012 | archive-url = https://archive.today/20120804083902/http://www.billboard.biz/bbbiz/genre/country/alabama-brad-paisley-sheryl-crow-help-bama-1005237452.story | url-status = dead }}</ref>


On April 19, 2012, Hicks appeared on ''American Idol'' and announced he would begin a one-year residency at Bally's in Las Vegas on June 26<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.al.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/09/birminghams_taylor_hicks_ready.html|title=Birmingham's Taylor Hicks ready for yearlong run at Bally's in Las Vegas|date= September 27, 2012|access-date=October 13, 2012}}</ref> that has been extended until December 2013.{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}} ''Entertainment Weekly'' magazine revealed that Hicks would be a celebrity contestant on Fox's dating show '']''.<ref>{{cite news|url= https://ew.com/article/2012/05/08/fox-choice-celebrities/|title= Fox's 'The Choice' cast revealed! Joe Jonas, Dean Cain, The Situation, many more – EXCLUSIVE|website=Entertainment Weekly|first=James|last=Hibberd|date= May 8, 2012|access-date=October 13, 2012}}</ref> On April 19, 2012, Hicks appeared on ''American Idol'' and announced he would begin a one-year residency at Bally's in Las Vegas on June 26<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.al.com/entertainment/index.ssf/2012/09/birminghams_taylor_hicks_ready.html|title=Birmingham's Taylor Hicks ready for yearlong run at Bally's in Las Vegas|date= September 27, 2012|access-date=October 13, 2012}}</ref> that has been extended until December 2013.{{Citation needed|date=January 2013}} ''Entertainment Weekly'' magazine revealed that Hicks would be a celebrity contestant on Fox's dating show '']''.<ref>{{cite magazine|url= https://ew.com/article/2012/05/08/fox-choice-celebrities/|title= Fox's 'The Choice' cast revealed! Joe Jonas, Dean Cain, The Situation, many more – EXCLUSIVE|magazine=Entertainment Weekly|first=James|last=Hibberd|date= May 8, 2012|access-date=October 13, 2012}}</ref>


On August 30, 2012, Hicks performed for the ] in ].<ref name="RNC">{{cite news|last=Naught But Nice|first=Rob|title=Taylor Hicks On Performing at RNC, Taking Risks|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/31/taylor-hicks-rnc_n_1847494.html|publisher=Huffington Post|access-date=November 20, 2012|date=August 31, 2012}}</ref> On August 30, 2012, Hicks performed for the ] in ].<ref name="RNC">{{cite news|last=Naught But Nice|first=Rob|title=Taylor Hicks On Performing at RNC, Taking Risks|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/31/taylor-hicks-rnc_n_1847494.html|publisher=Huffington Post|access-date=November 20, 2012|date=August 31, 2012}}</ref>
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In July 2013, Hicks attended the ] ] tournament<ref>Mrs. Erin Cleary Quinlin, Graduate of Creighton University.</ref> as a ] for '']''. Hicks finished tied for 257th overall out of 709 players.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/american-idol-winner-places-257th-at-evo-smash-bros-event/1100-6411496/|title=American Idol winner places 257th at EVO Smash Bros. event|first= Eddie |last=Makuch |website=]|date=July 16, 2013|access-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eventhubs.com/news/2013/jul/15/american-idol-winner-taylor-hicks-attended-evo-2013-tied-257th-place-super-smash-bros-melee/|title=American Idol winner Taylor Hicks attended EVO 2013, tied for 257th place in Super Smash Bros. Melee |first= Jonathan 'Catalyst' |last= Grey |date= July 15, 2013 |website= EventHubs.com |access-date= July 3, 2015}}</ref> In July 2013, Hicks attended the ] ] tournament<ref>Mrs. Erin Cleary Quinlin, Graduate of Creighton University.</ref> as a ] for '']''. Hicks finished tied for 257th overall out of 709 players.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/american-idol-winner-places-257th-at-evo-smash-bros-event/1100-6411496/|title=American Idol winner places 257th at EVO Smash Bros. event|first= Eddie |last=Makuch |website=]|date=July 16, 2013|access-date=July 3, 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.eventhubs.com/news/2013/jul/15/american-idol-winner-taylor-hicks-attended-evo-2013-tied-257th-place-super-smash-bros-melee/|title=American Idol winner Taylor Hicks attended EVO 2013, tied for 257th place in Super Smash Bros. Melee |first= Jonathan 'Catalyst' |last= Grey |date= July 15, 2013 |website= EventHubs.com |access-date= July 3, 2015}}</ref>


In September 2017, Taylor Hicks premiered his song, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings" with Billboard Music, his first musical release in eight years.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/country/7980790/taylor-hicks-six-strings-and-diamond-rings-premiere | work=Billboard | title=Taylor Hicks Returns With New Single 'Six Strings and Diamond Rings': Premiere}}</ref> In January 2017, Hicks recorded "Call Paul" - the theme song for ESPN's Paul Finebaum show.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.facebook.com/TaylorRHicks/posts/here-it-isthe-new-theme-song-for-espns-paul-finebaum-show-titled-call-paul-this-/10154998971821995/ | work=Facebook | title=Taylor Hicks announces Call Paul}}</ref>

In September 2017, Taylor Hicks premiered his song, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings" with Billboard Music, his first musical release in eight years.<ref>{{cite magazine| url=https://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/country/7980790/taylor-hicks-six-strings-and-diamond-rings-premiere | magazine=Billboard | title=Taylor Hicks Returns With New Single 'Six Strings and Diamond Rings': Premiere}}</ref>


Hicks hosted ''State Plate'' via the INSP channel for three season from 2016 to 2018 where he featured iconic dishes and ingredients from each state in the United States.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://variety.com/2017/tv/news/taylor-hicks-food-travel-show-state-plate-season-2-1202522826/|title=Taylor Hicks to Return as Host for 'State Plate' Season 2|last=Angermiller|first=Michele|work=]|date=June 30, 2016|access-date=January 26, 2018}}</ref> Hicks hosted ''State Plate'' via the INSP channel for three season from 2016 to 2018 where he featured iconic dishes and ingredients from each state in the United States.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://variety.com/2017/tv/news/taylor-hicks-food-travel-show-state-plate-season-2-1202522826/|title=Taylor Hicks to Return as Host for 'State Plate' Season 2|last=Angermiller|first=Michele|work=]|date=June 30, 2016|access-date=January 26, 2018}}</ref>


Hicks debuted in his starring role as Charlie Anderson in the Serenbe Playhouse production of '']'' in March 2019.<ref name=playbill>{{cite web | url = http://www.playbill.com/article/immersive-shenandoah-starring-taylor-hicks-and-rachel-potter-opens-at-serenbe-march-15 | publisher = Playbill | title = Immersive Shenandoah, Starring Taylor Hicks and Rachel Potter, Opens at Serenbe March 15 | access-date = March 29, 2019}}</ref> Hicks debuted in his starring role as Charlie Anderson in the Serenbe Playhouse production of '']'' in March 2019.<ref name=playbill>{{cite web | url = http://www.playbill.com/article/immersive-shenandoah-starring-taylor-hicks-and-rachel-potter-opens-at-serenbe-march-15 | publisher = Playbill | title = Immersive Shenandoah, Starring Taylor Hicks and Rachel Potter, Opens at Serenbe March 15 | date = March 15, 2019 | access-date = March 29, 2019}}</ref>

Hicks released the single, "Porch Swing", on February 20, 2023.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://tasteofcountry.com/taylor-hicks-porch-swing/ | work=Taste of Country | title=Taylor Hicks Delivers Romantic Soul in 'Porch Swing,' His First Single in 14 Years Read More: Taylor Hicks Delivers Romantic Soul in 'Porch Swing}}</ref> Hicks made his ] debut on June 16, 2023.<ref>{{cite news| url=https://www.opry.com/artists/taylor-hicks | work=Opry.com | title=Taylor Hicks Makes His Opry Debut}}</ref>


==Discography== ==Discography==
{{details|Taylor Hicks discography}} {{further|Taylor Hicks discography}}

===Albums=== ===Albums===
*2006: '']'' *2006: '']''
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==See also== ==See also==
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Latest revision as of 04:58, 19 October 2024

American musician Not to be confused with Tyler Hicks.

Taylor Hicks
Hicks in the American Idol motorcade at Walt Disney World in February 2009Hicks in the American Idol motorcade at Walt Disney World in February 2009
Background information
Birth nameTaylor Reuben Hicks
Born (1976-10-07) October 7, 1976 (age 48)
Birmingham, Alabama, U.S.
Genres
Occupations
  • Singer-songwriter
  • restaurateur
  • advocate
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • guitar
  • harmonica
  • B3 organ
Years active1995–present
Labels
  • Arista
  • 19 (2006–2008)
  • Modern Whomp (2008–present)
Formerly ofLittle Memphis Blues Orchestra
Websitetaylorhicks.com
Musical artist

Taylor Reuben Hicks (born October 7, 1976) is an American singer who won the fifth season of American Idol in May 2006. Hicks got his start as a professional musician in his late teens and performed around the Southeastern United States for well over the span of a decade, during which he also released two independent albums. Upon winning Idol, he was signed to Arista Records, under which his self-titled major label debut was released on December 12, 2006.

His energetic stage performances and influences derived from classic rock, blues, and R&B music had earned him a following of devout fans dubbed the "Soul Patrol". Hicks performed on Broadway in 2008 and on national tour in 2009 in Grease playing Teen Angel, the role originated by Alan Paul. He is the first Idol winner to secure a long-term residency at a Las Vegas casino. He began his residency at Bally's Las Vegas in June 2012 and moved to a larger venue, Paris Las Vegas, in January 2013. In 2016, Hicks began hosting the INSP original series State Plate, and released a single, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings", in 2017.

Early life

Taylor Hicks was born in Birmingham, Alabama, on October 7, 1976, to Bradley Hicks and Pamela Dickinson. He and his family moved to the suburb of Hoover when he was eight years old. His hair started turning gray by the time he was 14. His parents divorced, and stepmother Linda shared custody of their son until he came of age. Hicks has suggested his difficult childhood as the reason for his turning to soul and blues music for solace. He has a younger half-brother, Sean, who later convinced him to audition for American Idol.

He bought his first harmonica when he was 16, for $2 at a flea market in Bessemer, Alabama, and taught himself to play blues harp. He discovered that he possessed perfect pitch when he was able to recognize the pitches of ordinary noises and mimic them on the harmonica. Hicks was 18 when he wrote his first song, "In Your Time", and he taught himself to play electric guitar and the church organ when he was 19. When he was in college, he played in a Widespread Panic cover band.

Hicks graduated from Hoover High School in 1995. He played varsity baseball, soccer, and basketball while studying in Hoover. He then pursued a major in business and journalism at Auburn University.

Career

Independent music

"The Fall" excerpt "The Fall" is an acoustic ballad about a painful, failed relationship.
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While in college, Hicks was part of a band called Passing Through, which he later quit to start his own band. In 1997, he independently recorded In Your Time, an album which included both studio and live tracks. In 2000, he moved to pursue a music career in Nashville, Tennessee, where he worked with Nashville veterans Billy Earl McClelland and Percy Sledge to record a three-track demo but was unable to find a label that would sign him. He left Nashville after a year due to what he called the "oversaturation of the market". Hicks returned to Alabama and launched a professional music career, performing at various venues and parties mostly around the Southeastern United States, including The War Eagle Supper Club (a popular college bar) in Auburn, Alabama. Hicks has performed with the likes of Widespread Panic, James Brown, Tom Petty, Jackson Browne, Drive-By Truckers, Robert Randolph, Snoop Dogg and Keb Mo. He also performed in the huge infield of Talladega Superspeedway in 2004 during a NASCAR race weekend.

He recorded, produced, and released a second album, Under the Radar, in 2005. Despite releasing two albums prior to appearing on American Idol, he did not violate their requirements for contestants, as he had never held a recording contract.

Hicks has allowed audience members to record his concerts for personal, non-commercial use, and has authorized the Internet Archive to create a section for fans to upload and share their recordings. The Archive does not accept the upload of concerts recorded after January 1, 2006, due to the terms of his American Idol contract.

American Idol 2006

See also: American Idol (season 5)

Hicks auditioned for American Idol in Las Vegas, Nevada, on October 10, 2005. Hicks passed the audition with the approval of judges Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul, but not Simon Cowell, who said that Hicks would never make it to the final round. On Hicks's first performance for the voting public, Cowell called back to this quote, admitting he was wrong.

On the May 10, 2006, results show, Hicks along with Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin, were announced as the top 3 finalists. On May 12, Idol producers brought Hicks to Birmingham for a weekend of promotional events including television interviews for the local Fox affiliate, a downtown parade, concerts, and an audience with Governor Bob Riley. May 12 was proclaimed "Taylor Hicks Day" and Hicks was given the Key to the City. Also on May 12, Gov. Riley issued a proclamation making May 16 "Taylor Hicks Day".

Hicks was named the new American Idol on May 24, 2006, winning the title over McPhee, with over 63.4 million votes cast in total. The proclamation was aired to a worldwide audience of 200 million television viewers. With his win at age 29, Hicks became the oldest contestant to win American Idol. He was also the first male contestant to win the competition without ever being in the bottom two or three.

In June 2006, Ford Motor Company, the show's major sponsor, signed Hicks to promote Ford's "Drive on Us" year-end sales event. He was also named Hottest Bachelor by People for 2006, appearing on the magazine's cover.

Week Theme Song Sung Artist Result
Top 24 12 Men "Levon" Elton John Advanced
Top 20 10 Men "Easy" Commodores Advanced
Top 16 8 Men "Takin' It to the Streets" The Doobie Brothers Advanced
Top 12 Songs of Stevie Wonder "Living for the City" Stevie Wonder Safe
Top 11 '50s Hits "Not Fade Away" The Crickets Safe
Top 10 2000s Songs "Trouble" Ray LaMontagne Safe
Top 9 Country Music "Take Me Home, Country Roads" John Denver Safe
Top 8 Songs of Queen "Crazy Little Thing Called Love" Queen Safe
Top 7 Great American Songbook "You Send Me" Sam Cooke Safe
Top 6 Love Songs "Just Once" James Ingram Safe
Top 5 Year They Were Born
Current Billboard Top 10
"Play That Funky Music"
"Something"
Wild Cherry
The Beatles
Safe
Top 4 Songs of Elvis Presley "Jailhouse Rock"
"In the Ghetto"
Elvis Presley Safe
Top 3 Clive Davis's Choice
Judges' Choice
Idol's Choice
"Dancing in the Dark"
"You Are So Beautiful"
"Try a Little Tenderness"
Bruce Springsteen
Joe Cocker
Otis Redding
Safe
Top 2 Finale "Living for the City"
"Levon"
"Do I Make You Proud?"
Stevie Wonder
Elton John
Taylor Hicks
Winner

Post-Idol career

Hicks played harmonica and guitar on every date of the American Idols LIVE! Tour.

Hicks signed a recording contract with 19 Recordings Limited/Arista Records, managed by American Idol creator Simon Fuller, in May 2006. Hicks's debut single "Do I Make You Proud" debuted on the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and was subsequently certified gold by the RIAA.

Hicks joined his fellow Top 10 Idol finalists on the American Idols LIVE! Tour which ran from July to September. The members of the former Taylor Hicks Band, formed by Hicks two years prior, regrouped as the Little Memphis Blues Orchestra and shadowed the Idols' tour route. Hicks occasionally appeared as a "special guest" when circumstances permitted, and was accompanied at times by the other Idols, such as Elliott Yamin, Chris Daughtry, Ace Young, and Bucky Covington.

In August 2006, Hicks's lawyers sued a producer with whom he worked in Nashville, for redistributing without permission songs that Hicks had copyrighted in 1997. The lawsuit was dropped when the masters were handed over to Hicks.

Hicks received a US$750,000 deal to write his memoir. Titled Heart Full of Soul: An Inspirational Memoir About Finding Your Voice and Finding Your Way and ghostwritten by Rolling Stone writer David Wild, the book was released in July 2007 by Random House.

On June 6, 2008, Hicks joined the cast of the Broadway musical Grease in the Brooks Atkinson Theatre. He played the role of "Teen Angel". Once his 18-month tour in the traveling Broadway show 'Grease' ended, Hicks performed in over 20 live shows.

2006–2008: Taylor Hicks and Early Works

Studio recording sessions for the eponymous major label debut Taylor Hicks ran in Calabasas, California, between October and November 2006, and took six weeks in total. The album was released on December 12, 2006, and debuted at the number two spot on the Billboard 200 charts. It was certified as a platinum album by the RIAA on January 17, 2007. Hicks embarked on a three-month US promotional tour for his album that started on February 21 in Jacksonville, Florida, and ended in Seattle, Washington on May 12.

Arista Records confirmed in January 2008 that it had dropped Hicks from its roster. Hicks had, at that stage, the lowest selling American Idol winner's album.

In 2008, Hicks signed a distribution deal with Vanguard/Welk records to distribute a compilation album Early Works. He also starred in Grease in the national tour as the Teen Angel after playing the role on Broadway. Early Works was released on August 12, 2008.

2009–present: The Distance

In 2009 Hicks released his second album, The Distance, on his own label, Modern Whomp Records, on March 10, 2009. The first single, "What's Right Is Right", was added to AC adds on January 27, 2009. The single reached number 24 on Hot Adult Contemporary Tracks. It was produced by Simon Climie and Dennis Morgan.

In May 2009, Taylor Hicks made Forbes' "Top Ten earning American Idol stars" list, coming in at number 10, with over $300,000 earned from album sales and from his role as "Teen Angel" in the national tour of Grease.

In May 2011, Taylor Hicks opened ORE Drink and Dine restaurant in Birmingham, Alabama. Birmingham Magazine readers voted ORE as Birmingham's "Best New Restaurant" in the fall of 2011. ORE Drink and Dine re-opened as Saw's Juke Joint, a barbecue and live music bar, on October 30, 2012.

On June 14, 2011, Taylor Hicks performed at Bama Rising: A Benefit Concert For Alabama Tornado Recovery at the Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. According to Billboard, the Bama Rising benefit concert raised an estimated $2.2 million for Alabama tornado relief efforts.

On April 19, 2012, Hicks appeared on American Idol and announced he would begin a one-year residency at Bally's in Las Vegas on June 26 that has been extended until December 2013. Entertainment Weekly magazine revealed that Hicks would be a celebrity contestant on Fox's dating show The Choice.

On August 30, 2012, Hicks performed for the 2012 Republican National Convention in Tampa, Florida.

Hicks was the first male Idol to be featured on a Grammy-winning album when he performed "Friday" on Jimmy Fallon's Blow Your Pants Off, which won for Best Comedy Album in 2013.

In July 2013, Hicks attended the Evolution 2013 fighting game tournament as a competitor for Super Smash Bros. Melee. Hicks finished tied for 257th overall out of 709 players.

In January 2017, Hicks recorded "Call Paul" - the theme song for ESPN's Paul Finebaum show.

In September 2017, Taylor Hicks premiered his song, "Six Strings and Diamond Rings" with Billboard Music, his first musical release in eight years.

Hicks hosted State Plate via the INSP channel for three season from 2016 to 2018 where he featured iconic dishes and ingredients from each state in the United States.

Hicks debuted in his starring role as Charlie Anderson in the Serenbe Playhouse production of Shenandoah in March 2019.

Hicks released the single, "Porch Swing", on February 20, 2023. Hicks made his Grand Ole Opry debut on June 16, 2023.

Discography

Further information: Taylor Hicks discography

Albums

See also

References

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  57. "Taylor Hicks Makes His Opry Debut". Opry.com.

External links

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