TAYLOR HICKS~HAPPY 2009!

Wow...it's nearly 2009! This seems to have snuck up on us fast. I find myself checking back to see what I found interesting in 2008 and what I wish for in 2009 that will be new and exciting.

Among the musical treasures for me of 2008 are the Taylor Hicks keepsakes that illustrate the broad spectrum of his talent and his willingness to take a risk with something new. As his 2007 solo tour came to a close and fans were feeling his absence from the stage, Taylor began a new phase in his career. He emerged on the Broadway stage and took it by storm in "Grease" as Teen Angel, and took that even further to a national tour. He also began the long and carefully crafted work on his new CD "The Distance," due out March 10th.

As I reflect on 2008, both in my personal life and in following Taylor Hicks in his pursuit of Dreams even higher than he imagined, I find myself wondering where any of us would be without the support of family and friends? Whether my own life was rich with family experiences or difficult with illnesses, I would try to look for the many ways to enjoy the pleasures in life that were there for the taking. Among these for me is Taylor Hicks music.

Taylor has written about his struggles in his book Heart Full of Soul and spoken about his dedication to his Dream in countless interviews. He has always stressed the support he receives from his family and friends and fan base. Taylor Hicks is among several who have influenced my past year by reminding us that you best move forward and improve your life by your own hands and determination. Staying positive isn't easy in our world lately. However, people like Taylor and others who refuse to give up, are a constant boost to anyone who doubts the possibility of achieving a Dream.

So....here is a fond farewell to 2008 and a big HELLO to 2009! I am going to start my first month of 2009 with many wonderful experiences, and among them is an appearance by Taylor Hicks at a shadow tour show after his "Grease" performance. A new year filled with new music by my favorite singer of blue-eyed soul and the promise of love and support with my family and friends...what could be better? If you have the time and the means this year, please DON'T forget to add those things which give you pleasure to those which you must do, or to those that take precedence over others. If music is among your treasures, then go for it! Music frees the Soul, gives it Life and energy. And who better to offer that to us than Taylor Hicks, the man who has given his Heart and Soul to music and to his fans? Check out his National "Grease" tour and the shadow shows afterward, coming to a town near you soon. Treat yourself this coming year!

HAPPY 2009 EVERYONE AND HERE'S TO LIFE, LOVE, AND GOOD SOUL MUSIC WITH OUR FAVORITE SOULMAN!