Taylor Hicks has been on tour since last February. His self-titled album “Taylor Hicks”, released in December of 2006 went to the number two spot on the Billboard 200 by selling almost 300,000 CDs during its first week of release. This was with hardly any radio play. Top that off with his CD going gold only in its second week of release, with over 500,000 units sold in the United States alone. The album is now certified platinum.

On July 10th Taylor Hicks released “Heart Full of Soul” An inspirational memoir about finding your voice and finding your way. The book is a very interesting read; I wrote a review of the book that you can read here. After my first interview with Taylor that associated content set up for me, I was hoping to get another. August 10th I got my second opportunity to interview the very talented Taylor Hicks. I hope you enjoy reading this interview and maybe learn some new things about Taylor.

How is everything going with the concert and book tour?

Taylor - It’s going really good. It’s fun.

Is the super rocket into stardom all that you expected?

Taylor - Yes, it is and more

Are there any regrets?

Taylor - No. None at all, when you’re working as a musician for 10 years and the phone never rings, you are thankful when it does.

When you were dreaming of your big break, do you feel that this all played out how you hoped?

Taylor - Oh Yes! I was just hoping for “a break”.

When you first saw a fan walk in too meet you, with a copy of Heart Full of Soul, what were your thoughts?

Taylor - I was glad. I was glad that it got finished and got out. I’m glad it’s helping people find a positive light.

What did your family think of the way you portrayed them in Heart Full of Soul?

Taylor - I think they are pleased with the book. It’s my story and my words.

What is the main message you want readers to come away with?

Taylor - I think that inspiration and perseverance can lead to great things.

In Heart Full of Soul you talk about being offered movie offers, have you accepted any or are you considering any movies or TV shows?

Taylor - No, not right now. I’m happy playing these theaters for the summer. You never know though.

With all the interviews you have done, snooping that fans do and now with the release of Heart Full of Soul, fans know quite a bit about you. However, there is no way they know everything. Is there one thing fans do not know yet that you can share now?

Taylor - I don’t know if there is.

I think the fans know a lot.

Taylor - That’s cool.

How does it feel seeing so many children at your concerts, enjoying your music so much?

Taylor - It’s quite a feeling. It’s what it is all about. It’s so great to bring every kind of person together.

You have been all over performing concerts and I am sure there are many stories you can share. What is one or two of the most memorable things for you, to happen at a concert?

Taylor - Just all the fans that are outside at the buses afterwards and just the sheer amount of support I have gotten out on the road.

Why haven’t you sung Places I’ve Been on tour?

Taylor - Well, that’s definitely a thought.

Everybody wants to hear that song.

Taylor - Ok

You have mentioned an acoustic tour, can you tell me if the dates will be announced, or will you just surprise people by just showing up at places?

Taylor - A little bit of both. Around the first of the year I am going to try and put some things together. But there will be a couple of shows that I will be doing during the fall.

What songs can fans expect to hear on the acoustic tour? Will they be different than the past tours?

Taylor - It will be a newer experience.

Are you going to release a music video for MTV?

Taylor - I am planning on releasing a DVD of Live at the Warfield Theater.

What is the most unique or memorable gift a fan as given you?

Taylor - I would say some old Rolling Stone Magazines.

What is the wildest thing a fan has done to get your attention?

Taylor - We can’t write that.

What about one that’s not so wild that can be written?

Taylor - (It took some thought for this answer) I think chasing me down in the parking lot.

What are your greatest hopes?

Taylor - That I will keep playing live music.

Is there one question you have never been asked that you wish someone would ask, and if so what is the question and the answer?

Taylor - How fast do you drive?

And, how fast do you drive?

Taylor - The speed limit

All the time?

Taylor - All the time.

Is there one thing not music related and not toothpaste or things like that, which you can not live without?

Taylor – Chocolate.

Is there anything you want to say to your fans?

Taylor - Soul Patrol

Found on idolstalker.com

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Earlier when she was pinned down for an answer Lyders responed, “Yes, Taylor and I are friends,” Lyders told managing editor Bobby Tanzilo Wednesday morning, “and as a journalist I respect your asking. But beyond that, I’d rather not comment on my personal life.”  TMZ.Com snarkily asks – “friends with benefits?”

In a recent interview(you may already know these):

• We tried, but Taylor wouldn’t divulge details on his love life.
• A new album should materialize next year.
• Look for a new DVD soon featuring Taylor live in concert.
• His musical tastes run the spectrum, from Michael McDonald to Elliott Yamin.
• Taylor’s apparently a big sports fan. Who knew? He loves the NFL, and also follows Alabama and Auburn universities. (He is from Alabama, after all.)
• And, yes, he thinks America made the right choice by picking Jordin Sparks this season.

There you have it, folks. Hear the whole 11-minute interview here

Recently, several touching stories about how Taylor Hicks has dramatically altered lives were shared with Taylor’s Angels by Mr. Bruce Torres. Mr. Torres is with Cabana Cove Concerts and was the promoter for Taylor’s July 6, 2007 Hagerstown, Maryland show. Mr. Torres is an avid fan of Taylor’s and worked diligently to promote the show not only to the general public but also by offering special opportunities to charitable organizations within the community, allowing them to enjoy the amazing artistry of Taylor Hicks as well. He worked closely with Taylor’s Angels and donated over 60 tickets to the Boys and Girls Club and Girls, Inc. in Hagerstown.

In an email, Mr. Torres relayed the following:

Greetings from Hagerstown,

I want to share two very special stories with you. We had a presale on April 14th so that local residents would have a chance to buy tickets to see Taylor before we put them out for general sale. There was a women standing on line with her 13 year old son and another son who was about 6 years old and had obvious emotional and physical disabilities. I talked with her and she told me that during Taylor’s performances during the AI season, her son would actually start sort of dancing and would be glued to the television. When Taylor’s CD came out she bought it and told me his music is one of the only things that he responds to. She likes to put it on and dance with him. Amazing!!

The second story touched me even more. As I was standing outside the box office talking to people in line, an elderly man came out and said, “I understand that you are the person responsible for bringing Taylor Hicks to the Maryland Theatre”. He shook my hand and proceeded to tell me this story. He woke up one morning and saw that his wife was sitting at the kitchen table crying. She is sick and he naturally thought something was wrong. He asked her if she was ok and all she could do was hand him the local paper with the article about Taylor coming to the Maryland Theatre on the front page. He told me that his wife is a huge Taylor fan but is not well enough to travel, even short distances, and knew she would not have the opportunity to see Taylor on tour. When she saw the paper, her tears were finally those of joy!!!

When the game of life is over, he who touches the most people wins. Score two for Taylor in Hagerstown.

Bruce Torres

In working with Mr. Torres and Cabana Cove Concerts through Taylor’s Angels, I became increasingly aware that this promoter was actually promoting Taylor Hicks, his artistry and his music and was focused on that aspect more so than the bottom dollar. His attention to every detail regarding Taylor’s visit to Hagerstown, Maryland was impeccably thought out. As a result, people in that small community camped out overnight to purchase tickets to this event. Although the temperature was 30 degrees that night, Mr. Torres stayed with them and offered them hot coffee and encouragement. At the day’s end, Taylor had set the one day sales record for tickets at the legendary Maryland Theatre, where his idol Ray Charles had once played.

As everyone is well aware by now, Taylor’s performance in Hagerstown was one of the best of the summer tour. All the fan sites were talking about his energy, passion and song selection. Of particular attention was Taylor’s dramatic encore, which included an acoustic version of “Happier With Him”. In my heart, I believe Taylor knew the passion with which this show was promoted and was touched by the love he felt in this small community.

Mr. Torres and his wife, Cassie, were speechless after reading some of the comments on the various fan sites regarding how well received Taylor’s concert was in their small hometown. They send their warmest thanks and wish to respond to Taylor’s fans in this manner:

” To all the fans who sent messages regarding the Hagerstown concert, my wife, Cassie, and I want to thank you for the kind words. It was our first concert production and we were honored to have Taylor Hicks as our guest. Those of you who were there know what a special night it was. For so many others who could not attend but got to listen in or see some of the video, I am sure you could feel it as well.

Being able to bring so many children to the show was as much a gift to us as it was to them. For one little girl who had recently revealed an unbearable past, it became a very special night. The only peace she has known over the last year has been his music. Her mother told me that looking up at the pictures of Taylor on her wall gave her something to smile about. She was the first person I brought in to meet Taylor during the meet and greet. Nothing will ever erase her horrible experiences, but in that one moment sitting next to Taylor Hicks, the world became a better place.

Taylor Hicks’ music is his vehicle, but his caring and compassionate nature is the “heart and soul” of the artist.

It was a pleasure to be a small part of the magic that is following him around. We hope to have him back in Hagerstown sometime, and we hope to see some of you again.”

Bruce and Cassie Torres
Cabana Cove Concerts

Taylor Hicks did indeed score a big victory in Hagerstown, Maryland. He has unknowingly touched so many lives in immeasurable ways.

Written by Tina (of Taylorsangles)

Jewelry Sprout is sponsoring the Proud Of Our Troops drive. They are asking everyone to please support and uplift U.S. troops by sending them the inspirational book from American Idol winner Taylor Hicks. The book is titled “Heart Full Of Soul.” Jewelry Sprout is accepting both the hardcover and the audio versions of the book. Show your love and thanks to our troops and give them something that will lift their spirits and give them enjoyment during their off time.

The Proud Of Our Troops drive started on June 26, 2006. Part 1 of the drive ran for 21 weeks. 3,157 “Do I Make You Proud” CD’s by Taylor Hicks were sent to our men and women overseas. Part 2 of the drive ran for 27 weeks. 2,751 Taylor Hicks CD’s were sent to U.S. troops.

Soldiers’ Angels, at www.soldiersangels.org, will be distributing the books to U.S. soldiers in each branch of the Armed Forces who are overseas. Our troops are not only in Iraq, but in many other places around the world. Soldiers’ Angels will also be distributing the books to soldiers who were wounded in active duty and are recuperating in hospitals. Some of our troops do not receive any mail. It is very sad. Please show you care and join in Jewelry Sprout’s drive. All information on the Proud Of Our Troops drive can be found at http://www.jewelrysprout.com/taylor-hicks-cd-drive.html

he is such a great guy! I love ‘im!

Fans from all over Michiana crowded into the grandstand.

Devoted fans packed into the Elkhart County Grandstand, fully equipped with their signs and cheers, all for “American Idol” winner, Taylor Hicks.

Fans say, “We listened to him all the way here. We heard the CD four times, 4 times of the way here.”

Another fan adds, “I only have seen him on “American Idol” and stuff so it’s good to see him actually live.”

And as devoted as these fans are, nothing compares to these fans, call the Diva’s who follow Taylor all over the country.

Eileen Dominick says, “We’ve been all over. We’ve been to the south, we’ve been to the east. We’ve been all over.”

Eileen Dominick has been following Taylor Hicks career from his very first performance on “American Idol”.

Dominick says, “He’s got something extra, hes got heart soul and heart. It’s wonderful to see someone whose really going back to the old school of music.”

It’s what she says, drives her and these women from all over the world to Taylor’s concerts.

Lydia Bower says, “Taylor has made a huge impact in people’s lives. People’s lives have changed for the better because of Taylor and his music and it’s something you can’t explain. It’s something you feel.”

And for Taylor Hicks, having fans like this, is a dream come true.

Taylor Hicks says, “Everyday I pinch myself. You have to pinch yourself everyday and I do. I’m very blessed.”

A blessing that he’s clearly passing on to others through his music. And Monday night, for these Taylor Hicks fans, no place could be more right than this.

A community is like a tapestry. The most beautiful tapestries have many hues, woven together to make unique textures and designs. A community includes many different people, people of different abilities as well as people of different cultures and backgrounds. Everyone deserves to be an integral part of the fabric of life and to have the opportunity to live life without limits.

The community of Taylor Hicks fans called the Soul Patrol is like any other community in which we live, work, develop friendships and find comfort and love in family. We must do everything possible to bring our community together for each individual, particularly those that need a helping hand.

Taylor Hicks has certainly displayed his desire to lead us all in these efforts. His never ending desire to please his loyal and devoted community is evident in all he says and does. But his compassionate spirit is never more evident than when he encounters people who have disabilities. I have read numerous articles on his interactions with them and how he goes the extra mile to accommodate their desires and wishes.

Most recently, I interviewed a fan who had witnessed a wonderfully inspiring encounter between Taylor and a young boy who had a disability. She relayed her story to me in this manner:

Everyone was waiting outside Taylor’s dressing room for him to sign autographs. When he came out, I was standing on the side of a little boy who was in a wheelchair and was accompanied by his father. Taylor came out and immediately went over to the little boy and signed the CD his dad was holding. Then Taylor said to the child, “Hey, buddy, how are doing? You know what? I have a present for you so hold on a second.” Taylor turned around and asked someone to get his harmonica. He signed it and gave it to the boy, then retrieved the case from his pocket. Taylor then said, “Here you go… here is the case so you can play it.” Both Taylor and the child were smiling. Taylor appeared to be very happy to have made that impression on the little boy.

I have read and heard many such accounts of Taylor’s compassion like the one described above and have also had the opportunity to personally witness this kindness on several occasions.

I work for an organization that serves children with disabilities and provides services to one little girl who is a huge fan of Taylor’s. At a meet and greet that I had won, I took her picture and showed it to Taylor while I told him about her disability and her love for him. He immediately responded by asking her name and personalizing the items I had brought for him to sign. Additionally, he said he wanted her to have a picture of him, so he walked into another room, obtained a photograph and also personalized a message to this five year old child. Needless to say, when I returned to work and presented her Taylor’s gift, she was overjoyed!

I have been at several concerts during which Taylor made a pointed effort to acknowledge those in attendance with disabilities. At an American Idol concert, there was a young man in a wheel chair who was paralyzed from the neck down and who also needed a respirator to breathe. Security pushed him close to the stage so he could better see. When Taylor spotted him from the stage, he immediately went over to him and pointed, smiled and sang to him for a few moments, giving him his own private mini-concert. Also, during Taylor’s solo tour at The Tabernacle in Atlanta, Georgia, the handicapped seating section was to the right of the stage. After performing and prior to leaving the stage, Taylor walked over to that section and made sure he shook everyone’s hand. Perhaps the most poignant moment for me occurred quite unexpectedly in Joliet, Illinois. Immediately after the final chord of the encore resounded, Taylor walked from the front of the stage directly into the audience and handed his harmonica to a small boy who had cerebral palsy and was seated in a wheelchair. I observed many people with tears in their eyes as they watched an American Idol acknowledge this precious child in such a manner. And then, once again at Birmingham’s Alabama Adventure in June, 2007, Taylor made a young woman in a wheelchair very happy when he again left the stage to hand her his harmonica. I observed that this woman required the assistance of a caregiver to eat or drink and spoke with the use of a communication device. Yet, though her lips were silent, the smile on her face spoke volumes.

Many people do not quite know how to interact with people with disabilities. Some speak loudly assuming they are hard of hearing while others simply look the other way. Taylor Hicks seems to have an innate ability to relate to them on a very personal level. In his book, Heart Full of Soul, Taylor talks openly of his troubled childhood and about his feeling of not fitting in, of feeling like an outsider and his feelings of being different. Those feelings led to loneliness and depression. Perhaps it is from those life experiences that Taylor Hicks has drawn character and pledged to give what he could to others that obviously feel “different”. Only Taylor knows the real inspiration behind why he treats those with disabilities so warmly and compassionately. But whatever the reasons, it is apparent that Taylor realizes these individuals have special gifts and deserve to be an integral part of the fabric of life.

Just as Taylor was given an opportunity of a lifetime through American Idol, an opportunity for which he longed for years, he knows that if given the right opportunity the struggles encountered by persons with disabilities become a limitless avenue by which their great abilities are revealed and the tapestry of our community invariably strengthened.

Taylor Hicks’ life has inspired others to dream of a life without limits. While his autobiography may be entitled “Heart Full of Soul”, Taylor’s life may also be characterized as a “Soul Full of Heart”. Indeed, his soul is filled with a heart of limitless compassion and caring for others.

found at taylorsangels