tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-34394987091844124532024-02-19T10:43:02.909-05:00TMO BlogGypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.comBlogger152125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-1794155471738614772013-06-09T14:41:00.002-04:002013-06-09T15:08:53.621-04:00Taylor Hicks~Wherever He Lays His Hat....<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_LRbe1TVHYO1StSMh978h3HBNoUQkbG01kgYc_PVjYUgRPg9F4I4YX_LVm49__AyyvW35S8fZo9t77tO63iMWHg4F_CJGrxc4eSVS1ia2wrs_uJLxtesr63MhtAXHPkQxPuYXXAI7vGZ/s1600/945725_10200517387389586_781346053_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhK_LRbe1TVHYO1StSMh978h3HBNoUQkbG01kgYc_PVjYUgRPg9F4I4YX_LVm49__AyyvW35S8fZo9t77tO63iMWHg4F_CJGrxc4eSVS1ia2wrs_uJLxtesr63MhtAXHPkQxPuYXXAI7vGZ/s320/945725_10200517387389586_781346053_n.jpg" /></a><br />
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American Idol, smoky small bar, Broadway, Vegas....it doesn't matter for Taylor Hicks. Just like his song lyric, "Wherever I Lay My Hat, that's my home," whichever venue this gray haired talent finds himself in, he is completely at home. And he definitely makes his audience right at home with him. How does he do it? He travels continually, lives in many different places, and never forgets his Alabama roots. Yet, when you are in the crowd watching his show, you truly believe he is at home and in complete comfort on any stage, in any town.!<br />
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Well....for starters...the man is a gigantic energetic bubble of honest talent. He pulls no punches and makes no attempt to glitz up his Vegas shows. It is the real thing....pure energy, passion, soul, and a taste of many types of music but always reflecting his beginnings. Taylor Hicks is a song writer and incorporates some of his best work into the Paris show, formerly at Ballys. He also gives excellent voice to some favorites of other artists and cleverly inserts "tags" or pieces of these songs into his own, making them fit somehow, and then eases back into the original song. And all without anyone missing a beat.!<br />
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Another reason that audiences come away with such a smile after seeing a Taylor Hicks show, AND keep coming back for more, can be attributed to the musicians with which he chooses to surround himself. Brian Less, who is his keyboardist and musical director, tour manager, long time friend, and all round great guy, lends his incredible touch on keyboard and organ, and sings with Taylor on many songs. I can't ever imagine a show without his amazing presence. Throughout the years, Taylor has changed his band. But rest assured, he has a knack for including some of the best musicians around in each change. Sometimes he has an incredible sax player, sometimes no sax, but still the music is fabulous. His bass and lead guitarists compliment the show in ways that need to be seen live to appreciate. His drummers and/or percussionists are always right on the money as well.!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbJAaRRal9Q1I-i3vxVrgP55ZVx3L3pwNtpC-DB2cq7KHkljhtLq6yfrpnSq4_9UWrnijltGyxvbJmGVy7v55j2EB32U20pyWkGqtFira1tRxk3b6iDV3Gvq5c74LUtLeED2dQmpH_Tc1/s1600/Bri.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSbJAaRRal9Q1I-i3vxVrgP55ZVx3L3pwNtpC-DB2cq7KHkljhtLq6yfrpnSq4_9UWrnijltGyxvbJmGVy7v55j2EB32U20pyWkGqtFira1tRxk3b6iDV3Gvq5c74LUtLeED2dQmpH_Tc1/s320/Bri.jpg" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRlRwqVojIq6u9YiA_-YKlIqqNoj2Z-DXjBa50BdSvWvL8LdybuGwDtwIcMRJKSXwB1HjuEO0h_mAdcf0aw4h828_i1g-LGBJNyCpVnurUbi53NCpcQOlcrEEbwiMUExDlKEWY-6xi-pRg/s1600/944693_10200517383549490_1826425172_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRlRwqVojIq6u9YiA_-YKlIqqNoj2Z-DXjBa50BdSvWvL8LdybuGwDtwIcMRJKSXwB1HjuEO0h_mAdcf0aw4h828_i1g-LGBJNyCpVnurUbi53NCpcQOlcrEEbwiMUExDlKEWY-6xi-pRg/s320/944693_10200517383549490_1826425172_n.jpg" /></a>
But the main factor in the success Taylor Hicks is experiencing during his extended Vegas run at Paris Hotel's Napoleon's Lounge, is his connection with the crowd. It is an intimate venue and every seat is a good view. Sure, it's the same songs with a few changes here and there, the same banter and stories, the same outfits...etc. But, hey...it's VEGAS! And this is a Vegas show in its full glory! And people love hearing the banter, the stories, the jokes, and most of all, THE MUSIC. So, they keep coming and coming. Included in this very entertaining and energizing evening is the story of how he got to Idol and fans, old and new, never tire of delighting in it. There are Taylor Hicks early songs, which he wrote that are outstanding in their unique and "real deal" feel. There are favorite covers, such as: "Taking It To The Streets," with classic Taylor moves and some new tricks as well. "Nineteen," is one which always brings a crowd to its feet and to tears, celebrating our troops, "Back To Louisiana," a personal favorite of mine, gets everyone moving with its bluesy sound and amazing harmonica solos. And "Maybe You Should," a beautiful ballad which Taylor Hicks proudly tells us is reserved for Faith Hill and Tim McGraw, and the rousing "Seven Mile Breakdown," help round out this rollicking, fun performance. The encore doesn't disappoint. Taylor belts out Viva Las Vegas in true Elvis/Taylor style.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gwmnPjRJFZh0b25p42GuqFSzeJW9fDMb4XtT-MKIfGNRhhCzcB_3QKEPEeVTDrbxiBX0rRLcuRs8ZlMwwIJEVmzVwCz_9rhJMt-ipZY5EpKEAPvWG0kd2zELW29XWDfbD5CCdGldQrN3/s1600/603016_10200517403309984_1526278945_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0gwmnPjRJFZh0b25p42GuqFSzeJW9fDMb4XtT-MKIfGNRhhCzcB_3QKEPEeVTDrbxiBX0rRLcuRs8ZlMwwIJEVmzVwCz_9rhJMt-ipZY5EpKEAPvWG0kd2zELW29XWDfbD5CCdGldQrN3/s320/603016_10200517403309984_1526278945_n.jpg" /></a>
For those who can afford the VIP ticket, you get a private Meet and Greet with Taylor Hicks. He signs pretty much anything and everything that isn't attached to your body, and takes pictures with you. If you choose the non VIP ticket, you can still get to meet him after the show at his merchandise table, which is attended to by a very gracious and knowledgeable lady. Every time I have been to his show, both at Paris and Ballys, this table was full of appreciative fans wanting to buy CDs, t shirts, coozies, and other various treasures to remind them of their great experience. I want to add here that the staff at Napoleon's Lounge is very courteous and helpful to all fans.!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPdy9wzl6nbrQlvAS23cCyXX0evaFXGTio3iBj8FiFrDnBT4yTKDCg4nV1aJTk0fFxQOxhvM-QmxVDg9VX9BPTsCrzr9RlnrzkQRPL8VC1l0cvPbkIk-W2KfSuYf3BkmFgt00p4R0zvrv/s1600/Napoleons2.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVPdy9wzl6nbrQlvAS23cCyXX0evaFXGTio3iBj8FiFrDnBT4yTKDCg4nV1aJTk0fFxQOxhvM-QmxVDg9VX9BPTsCrzr9RlnrzkQRPL8VC1l0cvPbkIk-W2KfSuYf3BkmFgt00p4R0zvrv/s320/Napoleons2.jpg" /></a><br />
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All in all, this is without question the best live music show on the strip! If you find yourself on a plane ANYWHERE near Las Vegas, get yourself a ticket to the liveliest and most entertaining musical experience around the city! In closing, I just have one thing more to add:<br />
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TAYLOR HICKS! We loved you before Vegas, we love you during Vegas, and we will continue to love you on the next step of your amazing Journey<br />
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Photos of my latest evening at Napoleon's with this talented artist are available in two places:<br />
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For Facebook:<br />
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<a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10200517381429437.1073741833.1004947921&type=3">Paris</a><br />
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For full size images, in our TMO Media member section:<br />
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<a href="http://z15.invisionfree.com/TaylorMade/index.php?showtopic=6704&st=0&#last">Vegas</a>
Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-52116212822406416182012-11-05T20:50:00.000-05:002012-11-06T23:00:05.055-05:00Taylor Hicks~Ballys ReloadTaylor Hicks has returned to Ballys in Vegas. The songs are pretty much the same, the stage is pretty much the same , and the energy level is....well...POUNDING. Is it old hat? Is it just the same ole same ole? Not a CHANCE!<br />
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When Taylor Hicks takes the stage with his incredible band full of musical excellence, you never once think, oh I've done this and heard this before. Instead, you are immediately drawn in by his magical presence, his shining silver hair, his intense passion, and.a voice that can raise chills and burn you alive all at the same time.<br />
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A Taylor Hicks Ballys set opens with a much loved Idol favorite of " Living For The City," and you are catapulted into a mix of rock and soul that can't be found in too many other places. The always beautiful "Maybe You Should" is offered with raw passion and genuine heart. One of my favorites is "Back To Louisiana," which heated up the Indigo Lounge on this evening to a fever pitch. The harmonica was a little extra good and the charming Taylor banter with the audience was in top form. <br />
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The new musical addition was Sinatra's "That's Life," which had the audience swaying along. By the time he and the band had gotten through "Love The One You're With," the crowd was as stoked as Taylor was. Jamie McLean and his band were superb as always, Brian G. On the horn was pure pleasure, and the truly incredible Brian Less on keyboard was beyond description. <br />
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At first, Taylor had some mic stand issues, but in true Taylor Hicks form, he managed to joke his way to a new one and entertain us while they made the adjustment. I have to say....once again...."Nineteen" brought me and everyone around me to tears. I brought my family to see the show and they were speechless after hearing this moving tribute to our Troops. <br />
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The close of the show was as joyful and exciting as I've ever seen! "Seven Mile Breakdown" had people clapping, foot stomping, singing along, and with great big smiles. By the time the curtains were opened and "Viva Las Vegas" rang out, the audience was cheering and as energetic as Taylor himself. <br />
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For a southern boy and his buddies, missing their Alabama football super team on the field, they created their own special brand of "Roll Tide!" And that Tide swept away any question of whether a return trip to Ballys, Las Vegas was worth the effort. The answer is unequivocally YES!!!<br />
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For ticket info, go to Ticketmaster and get yourself a pass to THE hottest show on the strip! It's not a repeat, folks. It's a continuation of the most musical fun you can have in the magical, crazy city of Las Vegas. And those of us who attended this show can vouch for that!<br />
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<br />Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-24488045669352734252012-08-22T11:25:00.000-04:002012-08-22T18:06:34.869-04:00Taylor Hicks~The Ballys Experience!<object width="560" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/_DLIMrz6_Xg?version=3&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/_DLIMrz6_Xg?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="560" height="315" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>
Taylor Hicks is at Ballys. This is last Monday night's performance. It's an hour before show time. The line begins to form, the buzz begins to swirl. The excitement is palpable. "Have you seen him before?" "Oh Yea, lots of times and he's great! Have you?" "No, never but I've heard about this and I can't wait to see it!"<br />
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So it goes....The excitement continues to climb and swirl, and soon, they are letting us in! Immediately, I knew I'd landed in Taylor Hicks Twilight Zone...this was truly going to be an out of body, out of mind experience. I have a front table. As I glance around me, I see many difference expressions on many faces, but they all spell A.N.T.I.C.I.P.A.T.I.O.N. They've heard about it, they've read about it, they've seen snippets of it....and now they are about to LIVE IT!<br />
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The band walks out onto the stage and waits. The Jimmy Fallon "Friday" clip begins to play. Those of us who know what is in store, or think we know, are already shaking with energy. Those who have not seen Taylor Hicks before are waiting, not knowing what they are going to be hit by in just a few moments. And then.....the Soulman is announced by his fabulous keyboardist, Brian Less....and Taylor literally bursts onto the stage. There isn't time to prepare adequately, no time to breathe deeply or call for oxygen....the barrage has begun and IT'S GOOD!<br />
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Taylor Hicks in concert at Ballys, Vegas is an experience no one who loves live music should miss, if at all possible to see it. As he takes the stage and the mic, his pure and powerful voice full of soul captures you and enraptures you, and from the first notes and quirky Taylor moves, you are mesmerized.<br />
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Tonight is no exception! He begins with "Living For the City," an immediate snap back to his past Idol performances and win. The crowd goes crazy. From there on, it's just great stuff! Saturday night, Taylor sang "Minute by Minute," a nod to Michael McDonald. On this night, he changes that nod to "Taking It To The Streets." Everyone is dancing in their seats and again, as I look around me, the smiles are big enough to light the entire casino. I am smiling and also, tearing up, because I am back watching a young man on American Idol who has captured us like no other due to his odd and often goofy, but so endearing style. And then watching this same musical genius headline his own show in Las Vegas, and my own goofy emotions just take over.
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This Taylor Hicks show delivers like all his shows do, but there is just something extra magical about tonight. The band is rocking out, especially Brian Less on keyboards and Jamie McLean on guitar. And Taylor is singing a funky, bluesy, and masterful version of "The Ghetto." When he finishes, the crowd goes crazy! Earlier in the show, he blew us away with "Back To Louisiana," but this performance of that much loved Elvis song is so amazing, it tops it all for me. And the ever poignant "Nineteen" brings its customary and moving standing ovation for Taylor Hicks and his talented band, with Brian Gallagher adding his soulful sax at the end.
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We end with "Seven Mile Breakdown," which has the entire audience dancing and screeching and cheering. There is a couple from Mississippi who is familiar with the Florabama, and they are just enthralled with this song. People are dancing in the aisles, people are clapping til their hands ache and singing along, and most of all....there is F.U.N. in abundance! When Taylor leaves the stage, the audience is pulsating with high excitement for his encore. And then, he bursts back onto the stage and gives us what we all feel after seeing him there..."Viva Las Vegas!"
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There is no doubt...Taylor Hicks is a FEEL GOOD show! There is also no doubt that he is a consummate professional and probably one of the best live stage musicians around. If you are in Vegas and miss this show, you have missed the coolest musical opportunity on the strip. He is there one more week and then off to Harrah's in Reno, so GET A TICKET to the most amazing and enjoyable musical ride you can find!<br />
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Just a personal note....after the show as Taylor Hicks stands among adoring fans, both present and new, to sign items and take pictures, I am filled with pride, albeit a small pride. I am not his family, management, or intimate confidant. I am just a fan of the man and his music....a very PROUD fan.<br />
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For more pictures of my Taylor Hicks Experience in Las Vegas, go here: :<br />
<a href="http://s1151.photobucket.com/albums/o640/TMO_Media/Vegas_8-20-12/"> Taylor Vegas</a>
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For tickets and info on Taylor Hicks in Las Vegas, go here: :<br />
<a href="http://www.ballyslasvegas.com/casinos/ballys-las-vegas/casino-entertainment/taylor-hicks-detail.html">Ballys</a>
Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-3483561955237975472012-04-24T05:29:00.001-04:002012-05-10T21:58:30.145-04:00Taylor Hicks ~ Wins Big in Vegas!<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/xPS8hmPEfFw" width="420"></iframe><br />
Most people head to Las Vegas with hopes and expectations of a fun filled trip and possibly a big win at the casinos. Many come away with some of those hopes fulfilled and many come away with empty pockets and a tired few days. But all come away with a unique experience from Las Vegas. There is one person who went to Vegas with a different purpose, with hopes of a different kind of win. There is one person who went to Vegas on a lark and came back a King of the stage. That person is Taylor Hicks....American Idol Winner, Broadway Star, Touring Artist, and even Restaurateur with his classy diner ORE in Birmingham, and is a major all around fantastic entertainer.<br />
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When Taylor Hicks went to Las Vegas before the fifth season of American Idol, it was a detour due to flights being cancelled or changed from the Katrina storms. It was one of the few places he could get a flight to from the tragic events of Katrina, and he likes to tell the story of how he came to audition for Idol. So, Taylor Hicks' trip to Vegas wasn't filled with dreams of hitting the big slots win or making a fortune at the tables in the casinos. His dreams extended beyond that to the big stage, where he could "get his voice heard." Boy, did he ever! His win on Idol with his unique talent and artistry and a tight fan base which never let him down and still doesn't, was the springboard to a national tour for his first CD, to various TV and radio appearances, to a starring role in Broadway's "Grease" as Teen Angel and then on to the National Tour of the play in the same role.<br />
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From there, Taylor Hicks continued his career as a touring artist, selling out his shows wherever he went, whether it was overseas, in a small bar venue, or the large casinos. It seems this was big preparation for an even bigger Las Vegas Win. And now, Taylor realizes his Jackpot has come in with a huge BANG! He is returning to the scene of the beginning of his Dream which lead him on a Journey he never imagined, but always felt he was destined for. Taylor Hicks has landed himself a residency at Ballys for the summer of 2012! This is a first for any American Idol contestant or winner. Some have appeared there in a single show, including Taylor himself, but none have secured their own headline show for a run before.<br />
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And who better than Taylor Hicks to accomplish this? He was unique from the start on Idol, whether you got his talent or not, and captured audience attention from the moment he took the stage each week until the final note of his performance. Not much has changed in that respect these days....Taylor Hicks still mesmerizes his audience as soon as he walks out with his equally amazing band, and delivers a show that has you dancing in your seats and leaving with a huge smile and often a photo with the Man himself.<br />
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What to expect from a Taylor Hicks Las Vegas show? It's anyone's guess. But you can place your money on a sure bet that you will NOT be disappointed and that you will come away feeling good and wanting more. Taylor Hicks has won big in Las Vegas! His slot machine was a giant pull on a small dream that paid off HUGELY after six years of hard work and dedication to his music. It wasn't overnight, because this artist has spent years honing his talent. But his first gamble began in Las Vegas and has paid off to lead him back here in triumph and set a role model for American Idol contestants and winners, and other hopefuls who want to follow their dreams.<br />
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I can't think of a better person to start that roulette wheel turning. After years of rehearsal in his early musical life, Taylor Hicks placed a bet during his first trip to Las Vegas that has led him to the best win of all! Make sure to share this win with him....maybe it will bring you luck too :)<br />
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TMO got a chance to ask Taylor his thoughts on his new gig. Here is what he had to say. Think he's excited at all? :):)<br/>
"I am honored and thrilled to be a part of the folklore of Vegas! This residency is going to be great!!"<br/>
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For tickets and info on Taylor Hicks in Las Vegas, go here: :<br />
<a href="http://www.ballyslasvegas.com/casinos/ballys-las-vegas/casino-entertainment/taylor-hicks-detail.html">Ballys</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-36163915176024064512012-01-08T13:59:00.003-05:002012-01-08T14:12:46.050-05:00Taylor Hicks~TaylorMadeOnline ClosingTaylorMadeOnline has been around since Taylor's first note on Idol, published January 11, 2006. The past six years have been an absolute Joy to experience, helping promote Taylor Hicks, an artist who is the REAL DEAL and a consumate professional in all ways.<br /><br />Taylor Hicks has gone from our living room TV winning American Idol to a Broadway Show headliner, numerous TV and radio appearances, and several whirlwind tours that will soon pick up again when his new CD drops this year.<br /><br />TMO_Media has been with him every step of the way, providing as much video, audio, and photos as possible to his fans, and to Taylor, to re-live again and again. But now it's time for TaylormadeOnline to close up shop as far as new media. With the rich availability of YouTube and Vimeo, plus the new communication arenas of Twitter and Facebook, Taylor has a wealth of support and opportunities for fans new and old to see and hear him. And I have need of more time in my outside life now to pursue my other passion, helping with Animal Rescue :)<br /><br />Our doors will remain open and there are some threads still open for all to enjoy, both member and nonmember. TMO will still post updates about Taylor Hicks on our Twitter page and occasionally reference older media where appropriate. But no new media will be posted.<br /><br />It is a bittersweet decision. I have so enjoyed getting to know the fans and helping Taylor Hicks promote his career. And media has always been my first love. However, I am also overjoyed that Taylor is doing so well that so many media sites feature him! He is a Joy to behold on and offstage! <br /><br />Please keep on supporting this great artist and song writer! I know I will :)<br /><br />Thank you to everyone who has helped make TMO Media the great library that it is today both members and staff, and most of all...Taylor Hicks! TMO could have never done it without the generous contributions of fans and without the man who is the focus...a fantastic talent! <br /><br />Keep on, Soul Man! You are TOPS!Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-46237874071693311332011-10-08T11:53:00.014-04:002011-10-08T12:48:50.529-04:00Taylor Hicks~My ORE Experience<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5fdgymqFFE1E4ydx-IqlDDJTEHu4b3zpon1mbaW6hvnu8Qx9ZqQf3t3_dRuahn-elpB-7MrWmnINIDdfMgiKUkclpM-7_TprMUZ4GVZOa34uWQxxsBXBjcoW-kCjSEDe21EJWLbBLN0G/s1600/ORE2a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ5fdgymqFFE1E4ydx-IqlDDJTEHu4b3zpon1mbaW6hvnu8Qx9ZqQf3t3_dRuahn-elpB-7MrWmnINIDdfMgiKUkclpM-7_TprMUZ4GVZOa34uWQxxsBXBjcoW-kCjSEDe21EJWLbBLN0G/s400/ORE2a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661150469136190562" /></a><br /><br />So, my friends and I could not wait to get to the Taylor Hicks new restaurant ORE for dinner Friday night and experience what has been named the Best New Restaurant In Birmingham, AL! And we were NOT disappointed! <br /><br />Let me first say that I had wonderful expectations from all of the descriptions I had read and photos I had seen, but I was still pleasantly surprised to find it even more classy than I anticipated. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, as it's not a large room. For those who have been to The Open Door, you will find much familiar in the physical set up, yet much different in the decor. We sat in the dining room area so we could experience the full treatment before retiring to the bar area.<br /><br />The wait staff could not have been more friendly and nice, and with a great sense of humor as well! My friend ordered one of their salads and I had the grilled salmon with sweet potato fries and a small salad. The food was superb...cooked and presented in a fresh and artistic manner and done to perfection. The salad was crisp and with a light but tangy dressing which whetted the appetite for more good things to come. My salmon was grilled just right with not too much oil and the chef brought out the full flavor. The sweet potato fries were some of the best I've tasted, again not too greasy and exactly the right texture and taste to the palate.<br /><br />For my wine, I chose a Sauvignon blanc that was light and very pleasing. Our dessert was also a special treat...a giant chocolate chip cookie with vanilla ice cream. They were out of caramel sauce, but it was so moist we didn't even miss that part. Everything was wonderful and came out right on time...not too fast but not such a wait that we minded at all.<br /><br />The best part of the experience was that Soul Man Taylor Hicks himself came in to greet his guests, stopping at each table to make sure everyone was enjoying their meal and service. He left and said he'd be back. <br /><br />We took him at his word, which he definitely kept! After picking up our other friend from her late flight in, we returned to ORE for drinks and music. The featured band was Heath Green, who was truly a delight. After the first set, while we relaxed with our refreshments, Mr. Hicks again made an appearance at his fine establishment. Taylor Hicks entered and with him he brought the Magic that follows him everywhere. After socializing with friends and greeting his bar guests, he took his guitar to the stage area and began singing. It was a quiet approach, no announcements of TAYLOR HICKS, just a man in his own element enjoying some beer and singing his music for whoever wanted to listen. And boy, did everyone want to listen! Heath Green joined him for a few songs as well and he is a great musician. <br /><br />Taylor sang "Where I'm From" or better known as "Alabama State of Mind" and it got me teary eyed to see and hear this great artist sitting in his own new restaurant and doing what he loves best...singing live to any and all. He also sang "Main Street," which I like to imagine was a nod to us Michigan visitors, although probably not really...LOL. Taylor was playful, soulful, and loose this night and we enjoyed this unexpected treat as much or more than any of his shows! <br /><br />I chose not to use my camera there, because this was Taylor Hicks and his down time, in his comfortable environment, and I would not dream of intruding on that. I was just very grateful to have been able to be a part of this night and happy with the thumbs up he gave us as he came back to the bar after his set.<br /><br />I cannot think of a more satisfying dinner I've had anywhere else. The food was amazing, the staff courteous and funny, and Taylor Hicks is the perfect host! He literally wined, dined, and entertained us and we love him for it!!<br /><br />We returned to ORE on Sunday after the Fayette shows for their jazz brunch. The food was outstanding! I had the Eggs Benedict, one friend had the salmon salad, and another friend had the shrimp and grits Diablo. We all cleaned our plates, because it was delicious. Cleve Eaton and his Alabama All Stars serenaded us with their unique style of music and when we finally left, I know I left more than my tip there...I left a piece of my heart in that wonderful place...ORE DRINK AND DINE :)<br /><br />Here are some photos I took of my experience at ORE <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHLFSEyK-VZ6JhoQXL1en__l0-ZRmFXZ-CqJZXFCeEVnQKz2vnxZntB2XqKE6LoxTu7TdOm-ET0NhRqBPWNY2LS4amnVbzcz2noIEKcwegOw8yPKpO8Wg7HLgHcf-sOcY44u-Rxkf5kWCl/s1600/Ore1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 377px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHLFSEyK-VZ6JhoQXL1en__l0-ZRmFXZ-CqJZXFCeEVnQKz2vnxZntB2XqKE6LoxTu7TdOm-ET0NhRqBPWNY2LS4amnVbzcz2noIEKcwegOw8yPKpO8Wg7HLgHcf-sOcY44u-Rxkf5kWCl/s400/Ore1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661162061435025138" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSybRiAovMNqGchti8EOqL1E1IMnDC0dnB3WWTuUjfZ6jp5ihANyaRyJn0wqv4YjOvueNxc64oUyFhUhvYH2tYTrwcQDKCCD91tumjtNUxNIJJelDDf56mxIQGfb4NerLc2Ey6Hk2aehhQ/s1600/ORE2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSybRiAovMNqGchti8EOqL1E1IMnDC0dnB3WWTuUjfZ6jp5ihANyaRyJn0wqv4YjOvueNxc64oUyFhUhvYH2tYTrwcQDKCCD91tumjtNUxNIJJelDDf56mxIQGfb4NerLc2Ey6Hk2aehhQ/s400/ORE2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661162359366079666" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzolDjX3fOddhwtr5KMm1bY3ilGyuP8HJekXnWLYINbCVg-EJ-u6qyqTof_kbcsxx9ecCPnD3rhoobU3fOvX8udyY8UETdDQ0N7VDghP4KAa2UWfsMbQN2QoAvYtJNAhyphenhyphenLZ5PR3KK5IT0z/s1600/ORE3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzolDjX3fOddhwtr5KMm1bY3ilGyuP8HJekXnWLYINbCVg-EJ-u6qyqTof_kbcsxx9ecCPnD3rhoobU3fOvX8udyY8UETdDQ0N7VDghP4KAa2UWfsMbQN2QoAvYtJNAhyphenhyphenLZ5PR3KK5IT0z/s400/ORE3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661162499555857666" /></a><br /><br />And THIS photo in the Ladies Room, which describes not only ORE and the city of Birmingham, but also my experience at this classy, upscale, and DELICIOUS epicurean eatery:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxGeCIbxCFDL0KC7GO4KBvmt9IGjHaUd5iwNXaIRvUqWTr7vJogLxnqKgCFz6iEgyoMhu_PXpo-7UbJ5yopcVIDTUue2F-OKWqPrA_XE5tl4hLyhNXvXcCs6F6H4ebK4418cd80soR9-E/s1600/ORE4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgxGeCIbxCFDL0KC7GO4KBvmt9IGjHaUd5iwNXaIRvUqWTr7vJogLxnqKgCFz6iEgyoMhu_PXpo-7UbJ5yopcVIDTUue2F-OKWqPrA_XE5tl4hLyhNXvXcCs6F6H4ebK4418cd80soR9-E/s400/ORE4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5661162603500852770" /></a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-77834990449318323052011-08-20T14:33:00.004-04:002011-08-20T14:43:17.883-04:00Taylor Hicks~Feast For The Soul<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXqHNwN2cYAeMDo4I1ItcuSLxdaKihZ9yoRq2TJPKwAY-PdJR3rEUBCcBY3L0ss07nWgb-OW9OURMJiu9mnGjJvdytmk1yfw2d8gLTUlPbYoHtfkwn5kvjkU7rWjAIlyJx5Yve5ErTAxc/s1600/Taylor+Feast.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 337px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtXqHNwN2cYAeMDo4I1ItcuSLxdaKihZ9yoRq2TJPKwAY-PdJR3rEUBCcBY3L0ss07nWgb-OW9OURMJiu9mnGjJvdytmk1yfw2d8gLTUlPbYoHtfkwn5kvjkU7rWjAIlyJx5Yve5ErTAxc/s400/Taylor+Feast.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5643010616639449074" /></a>
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<br />Pictures often reveal much more than words do. I love pictures! And one of my favorite subjects is, of course, Taylor Hicks :) So TaylorMadeOnline Media has created a Feast For The Soul, which offers some closeup photos of our Soul Man from various interviews and appearances in a crisp and clear showcase for those of us who simply cannot get enough of hearing and seeing this talented artist.
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<br />This thread is open to all, so wander over to TMO Media and give yourself some afternoon delight or some soothing visuals to enhance your evening :) We know fans will enjoy this collection. It is truly a Feast for the Soul with some old, some new, and all GOOD!
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<br />Comments are welcome here or on our Twitter acct. Enjoy!
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<br />Link to Feast for the Soul:
<br /><a href="http://z15.invisionfree.com/TaylorMade/index.php?showtopic=6595&st=0&#last/"> Taylor Feast</a>
<br />Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-62423372494044141602011-07-01T12:45:00.013-04:002011-07-01T13:34:02.621-04:00In Appreciation of July 4th~Taylor Hicks~Others<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLrYXnHkUhcZpsATEsKm1Z37NQ0r-n_H9WfF5kA5H774JpXyp1Fp6Pe7q4WrdVOzbV3pm2e1tKFDZ1pPIiDSVQjJpuXUjCl9LoWHBHxT4fRoHx5ILyduCw8j0w0MpdU1Ci-d32BrFamFG/s1600/suport_troops_july_4_fireworks.gif"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 250px; height: 250px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmLrYXnHkUhcZpsATEsKm1Z37NQ0r-n_H9WfF5kA5H774JpXyp1Fp6Pe7q4WrdVOzbV3pm2e1tKFDZ1pPIiDSVQjJpuXUjCl9LoWHBHxT4fRoHx5ILyduCw8j0w0MpdU1Ci-d32BrFamFG/s400/suport_troops_july_4_fireworks.gif" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624431157577491090" /></a><br />As I celebrate this weekend watching fireworks, eating good food with loving family and friends, enjoying the freedoms so many times we take for granted, I am struck with the thoughts of those overseas giving their time and love and hearts to allow us to continue to do these wonderful activities in Peace and Safety.<br /><br />I wonder about their feelinlgs on this weekend and applaud the courage of these men and women who wake up on this grand Holiday with thoughts of how to stay alive, how to get home one day to their own families, and how to get through each day and each hour with your life at risk daily and your best friend is a weapon or the serviceman or woman next to you?<br /><br />What must it be like for these brave ones who make the enjoyment of our Lives and Freedoms possible? What must it be like for their families who miss them and wonder if the next Fourth of July will bring their beloved sons, daughters, wives, fathers, and friends home alive and well to celebrate? <br /><br />So on this Holiday, while I am rejoicing in my own Freedom to spend this time with my Loved Ones who are safe and sound at home with me, I will also light a candle in Thanks and to say YOU ARE APPRECIATED AND LOVED AND MISSED to the brave individuals who stand up for our country that I love so much. And thank you to the artists I love who also give of their hearts to help our Armed Forces and to the various organizations who see that our efforts get carried overseas to our wonderful Service Men and Women. May God Bless You All and Bring you Home safely to all of us!<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9Kgbrb7LcLawUpBXZfgWShVWB6e6yAPtlBBVUIrNSzi-zJNjUiXv0R8IpBCuXzejkgItetVxPvhqB8JhA2Z26AhWmBe4ib21e9i3CNctcq3un3B7u5c7slDykZUlj4NZIV0E1f55NWSm/s1600/Troops.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 360px; height: 272px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM9Kgbrb7LcLawUpBXZfgWShVWB6e6yAPtlBBVUIrNSzi-zJNjUiXv0R8IpBCuXzejkgItetVxPvhqB8JhA2Z26AhWmBe4ib21e9i3CNctcq3un3B7u5c7slDykZUlj4NZIV0E1f55NWSm/s400/Troops.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624437183441583730" /></a><br />Please visit our TMO_Media 4th of July thread for some beautiful musical honors by Taylor Hicks, Bo Bice, and others, to our Fourth of July Holiday here:<br /><br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/6k6obfv"> July4th</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-80094146837423468802011-05-16T13:36:00.003-04:002011-05-16T14:16:15.924-04:00Taylor Hicks Talks CDs, Writing, and NashvilleTMO Media caught up with Taylor Hicks for a quick chat about his upcoming CD and some of his thoughts on writing and producing in Nashville, the music city!<br /><br />Take a look and feel free to leave your comments here or on the site :)<br /><br />Thanks, Taylor Hicks, for taking time from your busy schedule to talk to us!<br /><br />Link to Interview:<br /><br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/3s8k2ds"> Taylor Interview on TMO</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-42853986952230838532011-05-15T11:13:00.014-04:002011-05-15T12:19:48.483-04:00Taylor Hicks ~So Musical at Musica~A Recap!<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/VZRfOqZiHXI?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/VZRfOqZiHXI?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object><br />So...I drove 3+ hours in the rain to get to Akron, Ohio. It went fast and the ride was pleasant because it was filled with expectation and excitement. Why, you ask? Why else? I was going to a Taylor Hicks concert again!<br /><br />I had not been to a Taylor Hicks show since last summer, due to family and travel issues, so this was a special treat. And BOY, was it ever worth it! Musica is situated quite oddly in an alley off a main street. Our hotel was close by but due to weather, we took a taxi to eat at Crave, which was excellent by the way. We then walked over to the entrance to Musica, which was a building with a small doorway entrance through the alley...LOL.<br /><br />What a surprise once we entered! It appeared to be a converted garage and was just fantastic inside! Classy woody atmosphere with beams and wood built bar. Very nice but small stage and had tables on the floor in front, and then back tables with bar stools and some standing room. Acoustics were great! Venue wasn't full until just before Taylor came on and then it was fully packed!<br /><br />We chose a table back on the raised part with bar stools and a ledge to rest our things on. This was directly in front of the stage and slightly above the floor, so we had a fantastic view of the entire place and of course, Taylor and his band. The usual introductions took place after the opening act, and then Taylor Hicks entered the stage area.<br /><br />The rest of the evening just flew by and became a blur and whirl of some of the MOST FANTASTIC performances I've seen from our SoulMan yet! Three standouts for me were:<br /><br />Maybe You Should, the most tender version ever!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjPguNAWjOWG3DLDvzILTYxvjhkZ7GPHX08NBzZlyw8IH-C5-yKTNu-Z2J8L-E39aXx3OmIPZrxCDWEFosOsV5Yc1Un5CpqUy9ZkmWvlG41QuwLrYNJq4dWgAXW_ZY0lkJfYnkoKsGo2O/s1600/MYS1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 358px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRjPguNAWjOWG3DLDvzILTYxvjhkZ7GPHX08NBzZlyw8IH-C5-yKTNu-Z2J8L-E39aXx3OmIPZrxCDWEFosOsV5Yc1Un5CpqUy9ZkmWvlG41QuwLrYNJq4dWgAXW_ZY0lkJfYnkoKsGo2O/s400/MYS1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606964103040125298" /></a><br /><br />Rough Go Go Ridin, a Van Morrison cover and new addition to the set list.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGhwQ_HB4lw8fycj14u5vYfjXVdMgplXypciuowlf9dm135D8sig9D0Kud10Lm1mDi1TJDB8d5XoTZeXYezQM6Xnj2Kqg8Rxd2eJcf3qwjZbYZdzCQLFtTdF1bHIXj-U79NEzQLUNxtuU/s1600/RoughGod1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 309px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFGhwQ_HB4lw8fycj14u5vYfjXVdMgplXypciuowlf9dm135D8sig9D0Kud10Lm1mDi1TJDB8d5XoTZeXYezQM6Xnj2Kqg8Rxd2eJcf3qwjZbYZdzCQLFtTdF1bHIXj-U79NEzQLUNxtuU/s400/RoughGod1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606967890017182770" /></a><br /><br />And the encore song, Ohio which was very well received.<br /><br />Nineteen also got a huge applause and Jeff played his always poignant sax piece at the end. Taylor did Naked in the Jungle, a song which he hasn't performed for a while and which got the place rockin hard! As I looked around me, I saw a group of young fans who were totally into him and also some new faces from the Akron area. When I spoke to a couple in back of me, the woman shared that they had never seen Taylor Hicks in concert and that this was a 20 yr anniversary present for each other. After the show, I asked how they liked it and they were all but speechless :)<br /><br />Our SoulMan made Akron's storms small in comparison to the mighty power Taylor Hicks and his fantastic Band raised in the small but well filled venue! If you need a little peek at this wonderful show to inspire you to buy a ticket for a future show, click the video above....and have some tissue handy :)<br /><br />After the show, people did not want to leave. Taylor signed and took photos, and then the band stayed to hang out with those of us who were still there. All in all, a fabulous evening with Taylor Hicks and his band, and well worth the wet ride up there. I cannot wait for Manistee! <br /><br />For my all of my videos, you can check Gypsee44 at Youtube to watch. To get downloads and my photos, please visit our member area at TaylorMadeOnline Media in our Tour 2011 section, Musica in Akron.<br /><br />LOVED THE SHOW, LOVE YOU TAYLOR HICKS, LOVE YOU, BAND!<br /><br />Musica Set List:<br />Compared to What<br />Just To Feel That Way<br />Back to Louisana<br />The Maze<br />Hold On To Your Love<br />Maybe You Should<br />Rough God Go Ridin<br />Can't You Hear Me Knocking<br />Naked in the Jungle<br />Seven Mile Breakdown<br />*Encore*<br />OhioGypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-59178530325101289202011-04-30T12:39:00.022-04:002011-04-30T13:31:41.261-04:00Taylor Hicks~Alabama State of Mind~Tornado Relief<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/zbvrk3SbNlc?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/zbvrk3SbNlc?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object><br /><br />I doubt that anyone who is a Taylor Hicks fan or anyone who reads the news is unaware of the tragedy and extreme conditions as a result of the devastating tornadoes that roared through Tuscaloosa and downtown Birmingham, as well as many surrounding cities in the area. The havoc this caused has affected those who live there and those who know folks who live there, and anyone else living who has a heart.<br /><br />Speaking of hearts, Taylor Hicks is among many with a heart of Gold! Taylor, along with Nick Saban, and Alabama Red Cross, and abc3340 joined forces with the community to help with a fund raiser to aid Alabama residents in their long and painful Journey to recovery. Taylor manned phones alonside many hard working and caring folks to elicit financial aid for his beloved state.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzEfsjU63-7TfTUao3JPVbAkzp3M3qQwcNeInSFJuUBrOwfW5LKpofUGV-uyDYFIqsSjscPMxYen8PN7e315VErs-d8Tpvms9V7tLj1I9dSGA7-0yKss9mpRD80pT20_GnV1ZLDUZaoV6/s1600/7dbcs.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPzEfsjU63-7TfTUao3JPVbAkzp3M3qQwcNeInSFJuUBrOwfW5LKpofUGV-uyDYFIqsSjscPMxYen8PN7e315VErs-d8Tpvms9V7tLj1I9dSGA7-0yKss9mpRD80pT20_GnV1ZLDUZaoV6/s400/7dbcs.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601422363693568210" /></a><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOHTDj6NY6cKxkPsfL7zTXzj8T1pvgJok_dVqF-rW741j9y6hiq1K_uC5MH2HCr5ojP0Z9ATptU9KfEMBqihC55iOEH36eWI_IZoEjvELN7viydSpRmRiI0OfAsviCZhWhMUSf8xGK4fX/s1600/zb3ol.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 299px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjOHTDj6NY6cKxkPsfL7zTXzj8T1pvgJok_dVqF-rW741j9y6hiq1K_uC5MH2HCr5ojP0Z9ATptU9KfEMBqihC55iOEH36eWI_IZoEjvELN7viydSpRmRiI0OfAsviCZhWhMUSf8xGK4fX/s400/zb3ol.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5601422488067038290" /></a><br />*Photos courtesy of abc3340*<br /><br />It is both heartbreaking and heartwarming to see the many, many people from all over the nation willing to lend a hand in some way. Whether it be helping the telethon, helping clear debris and find lost loved ones and pets, or sending in money to aid all of this, we have all come to bat for Alabama and all of the other affected areas.<br /><br />Taylor Hicks has always called Alabama his home. When the Gulf catastrophe occured, he was right there to help out with a PSA and a benefit concert. This has not changed, especially since this new disaster has come to his Birmingham doorstep. He has stated in an interview with Fox 6 that he will probably be doing a benefit concert to help out even more and will be out in the community, along with the others who so graciously and generously are giving of their time and efforts to help those in need.<br /><br />You can help too! Please donate online or call the Alabama Red Cross. And please, please don't forget the many pets who are lost, injured, and terrified because they have become separated from their familes and homes. You can give to the Alabama Humane Society who is working with an organization to reunite and foster lost pets.<br /><br />We thank God for people like Taylor Hicks, Nick Saban, the abc3340 staff, the coaches who donated their time, the businesses, and the many who went out to the debris sites to help. Their hearts are as big as the state they love. Let's keep our hearts open as well....they need our help!<br /><br />Links to Help Out:<br />Neighbors In Need Donations:<br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/5vh3maz"> Donations</a><br /><br />Animals in Need Facebook Page:<br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/3fvymw2"> LostPets</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-13607759236979466712011-04-02T15:29:00.008-04:002011-04-05T22:55:33.998-04:00Taylor Hicks~No April Fool!<object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" id="dmlkZW9faWQ9MTMxNzU1Mw" width="512" height="354" align="middle"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="movie" value="http://www.nbc.com/assets/video/5-0/swf/DirectWidget.swf?CXNID=1000004.10045NXC&widID=4727a250e66f9723&configXML=http://www.nbc.com/service/videowidget/params/dmlkZW9faWQ9MTMxNzU1Mw==/"/><param name="quality" value="high" /><param name="bgcolor" value="#000000" /><embed src="http://www.nbc.com/assets/video/5-0/swf/DirectWidget.swf?CXNID=1000004.10045NXC&widID=4727a250e66f9723&configXML=http://www.nbc.com/service/videowidget/params/dmlkZW9faWQ9MTMxNzU1Mw==/" quality="high" bgcolor="#000000" width="512" height="354" align="middle" allowFullScreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" type="application/x-shockwave-flash"></embed></object><br />How do you top some of the most talked about occurrences on April Fool's Day? Well, if you are Taylor Hicks and Stephen Colbert, you connect with Jimmy Fallon and Roots, and give one of the greatest performances on TV EVER! And get yourself talked about, tweeted about, viewed, skewed, cheered and revered! <br /><br />Last night, Jimmy Fallon had as promised, Stephen Colbert performing Rachel Black's "Friday," with The Roots Band after raising the $26,000 for Charity which was their goal. Much hype was given to this performance and many viewers tuned in, unaware of a surprise guest. The song began, the crowd went wild cheering and laughing. When suddenly, an announcement was made and Taylor Hicks literally burst onto the stage on his knees and blew the roof off the place!<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVjqk74-81NF_lJc_afbCUEONiAWgEL839M0P7QDmfPB-ZEUGdDd2lj1cgZfrtJkCb2-ozSYKRl-DpK9ic6mUdhdee34NMD_BMpRWsNky-oJwK1VvcW6VpGbn5MfPECXskAcMN4HFdnQw/s1600/Fallon2.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfVjqk74-81NF_lJc_afbCUEONiAWgEL839M0P7QDmfPB-ZEUGdDd2lj1cgZfrtJkCb2-ozSYKRl-DpK9ic6mUdhdee34NMD_BMpRWsNky-oJwK1VvcW6VpGbn5MfPECXskAcMN4HFdnQw/s400/Fallon2.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591073565487936498" /></a><br /><br />People went crazy...the floor shook, the rafters nearly exploded with this wild, wacky, and magical sound! Add to this a bunch of hot looking cheerleaders, some patriotic balloons falling, and Taylor Hicks' famous harmonica, and you have one of the most enjoyable and fantastic performances ever found on television late night!<br /><br />Stephen Colbert and Taylor Hicks hammed it up with a capital H and set the crowd on fire both with laughter and applause. There could not be a better way to end the April Fool's Day fun than this! The Roots band did their part as well and it just blew us away.<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNr1-8JvgGRs-gANgycO5fioFx3B_WMmK0TmFyKR1uq6CBCHMlDEDBQEzwJr8AkfGEgaBUuazlpErnsZenzjDIzRc2F_yN7zW3oXbaKd-jIATCOiw1RERloXRh1N4MbRzDtZHr9U27gsf/s1600/Fallon5a.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUNr1-8JvgGRs-gANgycO5fioFx3B_WMmK0TmFyKR1uq6CBCHMlDEDBQEzwJr8AkfGEgaBUuazlpErnsZenzjDIzRc2F_yN7zW3oXbaKd-jIATCOiw1RERloXRh1N4MbRzDtZHr9U27gsf/s400/Fallon5a.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591074538056577842" /></a><br /><br />Twitter lit up like a huge pile of tinder on fire and the tweets are still going with praise for this brave and nutty performance. If you don't believe it, watch the video above and take a stroll over to Twitter and punch in Taylor Hicks or Stephen Colbert or Jimmy Fallon. Your eyes will fall out trying to keep up with the hilarity and pure enjoyment of last night's April Fool's Day craziness. Taylor Hicks was a surprise and stole the stage as he usually does, but the biggest surprise of all is that this video has now gone....V.I.R.A.L. Let's keep it going! Not only does charity benefit greatly from the good hearts of those involved, but Stephen Colbert and Taylor Hicks deserve MAJOR KUDOS for their amazing performance! Thank you, Jimmy, Stephen, and Taylor for all that you do, and Taylor Hicks? WE LOVE YOU!<br /><br />Drop by their Twitter pages and give them a shout out! IT'S FUN!!!! IT'S WACKY!!! IT'S SHOWBIZ, FOLKS!!!Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-7916685684621964552011-03-29T12:18:00.008-04:002011-04-03T08:22:51.282-04:00Amazing April with Taylor Hicks!The old saying "March roars in like a lion and goes out like a lamb," only applies to weather. On the music scene, Taylor Hicks proves that March roars in and goes out with a BANG, paving the way for a sizzling April entry!<br /><br />Taylor Hicks has shows lined up for the next few months and if you are a fan or even thinking about becoming a fan, get yourself to one of these shows! A Taylor Hicks show is a grand and energizing mix of original music by Taylor both past and present, fantastic covers, and pieces of music tagged onto other numbers. There are ballads for your romantic moments and rockin good soul for your upbeat pleasure.<br /><br />Along with Taylor is a band comprised of some of the most talented musicians the south can offer. Brian Less on keyboards, Sam Gunderson on guitar, Jeff Lopez on sax, Brandon Peeples on bass, Leif Bonderanko on drums, and David Keith on percussion. And if you're lucky that night, you just might see the SoulMan on organ or keys!<br /><br />Here are the shows lined up for Amazing April:<br /><br />Holt High School Culture Fest in Tuscaloosa, AL<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9YO6Dczo5V_4lBKMdJuSRw0xKHa9oqvg14-bcWum2MHQ1cpumPW4kIXZlNCBR7GWQK5t40QojRF0cGx8LvPwVwfWr4nIMZj0cKaUvQLoAO5U0-zDoAhf3BsQsUDz6zE9G1ryD7_35PsH/s1600/6000f6995c2948cb6c9cc0c3c2a77044.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS9YO6Dczo5V_4lBKMdJuSRw0xKHa9oqvg14-bcWum2MHQ1cpumPW4kIXZlNCBR7GWQK5t40QojRF0cGx8LvPwVwfWr4nIMZj0cKaUvQLoAO5U0-zDoAhf3BsQsUDz6zE9G1ryD7_35PsH/s400/6000f6995c2948cb6c9cc0c3c2a77044.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589541696163733586" /></a><br /><br /><br />Beautiful Lincoln Theatre in Mount Vernon, WA<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgy0I2lcXwYujl_fDFJmueaM0EKpTrnmvaHdMid6G1Xvf_Cgg-etFaUfIZaSkO6BI4b-UMzR_nNBAY0V7z7m30bUdmyWIey1eMuAPzRIIH1j3bGR5L5C5vEkdIQuLZnGYuo0VQZVbsShf/s1600/Lincoln.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwgy0I2lcXwYujl_fDFJmueaM0EKpTrnmvaHdMid6G1Xvf_Cgg-etFaUfIZaSkO6BI4b-UMzR_nNBAY0V7z7m30bUdmyWIey1eMuAPzRIIH1j3bGR5L5C5vEkdIQuLZnGYuo0VQZVbsShf/s400/Lincoln.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589541983339153970" /></a><br /><br /><br />Exciting Snogqualmie Casino, in Snogqualmie, WA<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOMwFjWi7bXBlqIGU3m58gyJBRop6hdDFvohlajr0k3uKWphLgSSdkjGlM3Xeed_VkJK8vLyE_1BE1rr_hDBtglyqr9HEEbRyPoQs0YmO8DmYKTEogl2LsDZfjGGNJY5Z46Sx7IiB3HNA/s1600/feature-img-1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgOMwFjWi7bXBlqIGU3m58gyJBRop6hdDFvohlajr0k3uKWphLgSSdkjGlM3Xeed_VkJK8vLyE_1BE1rr_hDBtglyqr9HEEbRyPoQs0YmO8DmYKTEogl2LsDZfjGGNJY5Z46Sx7IiB3HNA/s400/feature-img-1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5589542179981809410" /></a><br /><br /><br />Stay tuned for Magical May which is packed with more Taylor Hicks goodies!<br /><br />Info at:<br /><a href="http://www.taylorhicks.com"> Taylor's Official Site</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-73952053379699345352011-03-17T13:39:00.012-04:002011-03-19T12:17:36.128-04:00Taylor Hicks~Manistee Pt2~The Three M's!The Chippewa called it Manistee meaning "spirit of the woods." Its breathtaking views and picturesque surroundings set the stage for an amazing evening.<br /><br />Picture a beautiful clear summer sky filled with bright stars and you have Manistee, Michigan. Imagine luminous Moonlight and add some sizzling Music by Taylor Hicks. You then have the makings for a Magical Moonlight Night of Music with one of the brighest stars of all!<br /><br />I asked Taylor what concert goers can expect from this Taylor HIcks show hosted by Little River Casino. Here is what he had to say:<br /><br />"The Manistee Show is going to be great! I am looking forward to getting back to Michigan. By then there will be some new great songs and the band will be rockin for sure!! Looking forward to it!! See you there!!"<br /><br />Soooo...there you have it, folks. Right from the man himself! And if that's not enough tantalizing for you, check out this fantastic sample from a recent Cleveland show of what you can expect from a Taylor Hicks concert: "Dust My Broom."<br /><br /><object style="WIDTH: 640px; HEIGHT: 390px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gtyy4O9uK3I?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><br /><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gtyy4O9uK3I?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="640" height="390"></embed></object><br /><br />Little River Casino is a great venue to see this show! Grab a ticket before they sell out and enjoy a night of Three M's with Taylor Hicks....Manistee, Moonlight, and Music to please all your senses!<br /><br />Here is the place to be: Manistee photo by Steve Pepple<br /><br /><p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DIZocWOEDsVQDVr5kDad-_GUWfcTfcSbu8W7FWR9X_-zsQNNdnJj_SkQhY0upYTgeNamEeka7ebJciU4OSTwtVaPeKUiecs2OLySAPWK5qk1aALSaHriWVMHaIzhdKZ0COQ09-1Hw926/s1600/Manistee_Pepple.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585111494931435554" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 258px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj8DIZocWOEDsVQDVr5kDad-_GUWfcTfcSbu8W7FWR9X_-zsQNNdnJj_SkQhY0upYTgeNamEeka7ebJciU4OSTwtVaPeKUiecs2OLySAPWK5qk1aALSaHriWVMHaIzhdKZ0COQ09-1Hw926/s400/Manistee_Pepple.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Little River Casino:<br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24XR3nKixfpbhsqlQh4n5aHutnNeluVZPQiuBS2-61h_CCzeOTbpyjGwZ-7uRYIj8q1HG95Z5w-kdJUbWPXT-skWvL_2wVAWCNPGJ6HtCATONQUyaGe7jXo1pAnXPiwLmHfXMQRYPePES/s1600/Little+River.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg24XR3nKixfpbhsqlQh4n5aHutnNeluVZPQiuBS2-61h_CCzeOTbpyjGwZ-7uRYIj8q1HG95Z5w-kdJUbWPXT-skWvL_2wVAWCNPGJ6HtCATONQUyaGe7jXo1pAnXPiwLmHfXMQRYPePES/s400/Little+River.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585113277452943410" /></a><br /></p><br /><p>Tickets available here:<br /><a href="http://www.startickets.com/event.php?event=2231">Star Tickets</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></p>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-33726421931155808452011-03-08T08:04:00.010-05:002011-03-09T09:14:15.931-05:00Taylor Hicks~A Star in Northern Michigan's Sky<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/cXBEaIwFkTQ?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/cXBEaIwFkTQ?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object><br />For those of us in Michigan and the surrounding midwest areaa, a long awaited concert is in sight! Taylor Hicks brings his energetic, unique, and fantastic show back to our fair state on May 29th. <br /><br />Taylor Hicks will be appeariing at the Manistee Little River Casino and believe me, if you are in the area, you do NOT want to miss this opportunity to be entertained by a true artist in his element live onstage. Taylor brings with him a talented band that backs him to perfection featuring musicians who are tops in their craft. Brian Less on Keyboards ia amazing in what he can elicit from those keys. Jeff Lopez lends his spiritual sax sound, along with Sam Gunderson's fabulous guitar. Brandon Peeples on bass is equally superb, as is Leif Bonderanko on drums, and David Keith on percussion. <br /><br />If you have not seen a Taylor Hicks concert, this is your chance to see one of the best live performances a ticket can provide! Taylor brings his special brand of blues, soul, and country rock and delivers it with high energy, deep passion, and plenty of fun on stage. Crowds can expect to hear original music such as "The Deal" mixed with tags from various songs, familiar covers in unique arrangements like "Bulletproof," and some ballads filled with emotion such as "Maybe You Should," a song from Taylor's latest CD The Distance.<br /><br />Last summer, Taylor Hicks came to Bay City and brought the crowd to its feet again and again with his rocking good soul. He also brought them to tears with his poignant "Nineteen." I was there....it was incredible! And I will be there this May in Manistee as well. Will you???<br /><br />Don't miss this chance to lose yourself in the music and talent of a genuine artist with an equally talented band. It's the perfect blend and the perfect way to spend an evening in a beautiful setting. Manistee is picturesque with plenty to do before and after the show, especially if you stay at the casino. Little River has good rates and will offer a wonderful showcase for this supremely entertaining artist.<br /><br />Click the video above for a sample treat. Don't miss out! Get your tickets for Taylor Hicks today right here! They are going fast, so don't delay!<br /><a href="http://www.startickets.com/event.php?event=2231"> Star Tickets</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-2171817958572663002011-02-26T10:13:00.005-05:002011-02-26T10:25:43.285-05:00Taylor Hicks~One Word Says It All!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQ8Ym3ITa63-Un3KF1dEt5idPwf-TLj-zrX-lSDNJu1bf9-psd8a_BROJdYC2MSbWihF5OCjXTMNGBXIOzfDx8vZsKgYe3J2M0NyAvxlDd1O5IQcYgWk88cxgO17_ZSZNGNUtdfv-c5to/s1600/Maplewood.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQ8Ym3ITa63-Un3KF1dEt5idPwf-TLj-zrX-lSDNJu1bf9-psd8a_BROJdYC2MSbWihF5OCjXTMNGBXIOzfDx8vZsKgYe3J2M0NyAvxlDd1O5IQcYgWk88cxgO17_ZSZNGNUtdfv-c5to/s400/Maplewood.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5578019469861920306" /></a><br />Photo by RagsQueen<br />Have you seen a Taylor Hicks concert, especially the new ones? Have you experienced the magical energy that is Taylor Hicks and his band?<br /><br />Let's have some fun! Give us ONE word that sums it up for you! This could be a BIG list...because it's hard to find words to describe the kind of fantastic experience a Taylor Hicks show is :) Help us with the fun!<br /><br />My Word...sorry I got it first...lol = INDESCRIBABLE!<br /><br />Catch Taylor Hicks in concert in the coming months at:<br /><br />Jazz Fest - New Orleans, LA<br /><br />Ride2Recovery - San Marcos, TX<br /><br />Snogqualmie Casino - Snogqualmie, WA<br /><br />The Mill Casino - Coos Bay, OR<br /><br />Info at:<br /><a href="http://www.taylorhicks.com"> Taylor's Official Site</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-14021845141735922172011-02-15T09:10:00.005-05:002011-02-15T10:02:41.190-05:00Taylor Hicks~Winter Blues-Spring Soul-Summer Heat!<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/gtyy4O9uK3I?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/gtyy4O9uK3I?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object><br />Just when you thought you'd never shake the winter chill, a new set of Taylor Hicks HAWT shows appears on the horizon! And melting those cold winter Blahs with some hot Blues is as easy as buying a ticket :) But the thaw doesn't end there. Breeze on into Spring Soul and then the hot Summer Heat as Mr. Hicks continues to bring it home on stage where he shines!<br /><br />You can catch Taylor Hicks at these coming venues:<br /><br />Feb 24...Vinyl Music Hall in Pensacola, FL<br /><br />Feb 25...Gold Star Casino in Tunica, MS<br /><br />Feb 26...Beau Rivage Casino in Bilox, MS<br /><br />April 28...Snoqualmie Casino-Ballroom, Snoqualmie, WA<br /><br />May May 27...The Mill Casino, Coos Bay, OR<br /><br />You can also find him at Jazz Fest in New Orleans...4-29 through 5-8.<br />More shows coming, so check his Twitter and Official site for info!<br /><br />Tickets available through Ticketmaster or the individual venue box offices.<br /><br />Taylor Hicks is an amazing talent no matter how you see or hear him, but he is in his element live onstage, an experience no one can soon forget. The energy and excitement permeates any venue he and his incredible band visit, and it affects the crowd as well making it a fabulous evening. So if you are suffering from Winter Blahs, longing for Spring Breezes, and panting for Summer's Heat the cure is a ticket to one of Taylor Hicks' shows!<br /><br />Watch the video above to start your winter thaw:) That will surely melt your chill and toast your toast, and set you on the road to some HAWT enjoyment! And there is plenty more of the same coming your way at each concert. Don't get left out in the cold...Get your tickets before they are gone! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.taylorhicks.com"> Taylor's Official Site</a><br /><a href="http://twitter.com/#!/TaylorRHicks"> Taylor's Twitter</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-21758505514921510882011-01-22T18:02:00.004-05:002011-01-22T18:07:50.966-05:00Jam Cruise 9~Thanks Jeff Grady!<iframe src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/19054856" width="400" height="300" frameborder="0"></iframe><p><a href="http://vimeo.com/19054856">Jam Cruise 9</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/user3263991">jeff grady</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com">Vimeo</a>.</p><br />BIG LOVE to Jeff Grady for sharing his FABULOUS Jam Cruise 9 video with us all. Taylor Hicks fans and all the artists' fans are eternally grateful. Amazing video, fantastic cruise, music to die for! <br /><br />THANK YOU, JEFF!Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-48843549066624922162011-01-19T22:40:00.007-05:002011-01-19T23:11:35.127-05:00Taylor Hicks And A To Farewell Regis!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrCglalsdou41AfW4sgixZGdh_TLO5rpwkHcEs2cXnMqFm_NKNbN3pq2PaPv6zINzejM5gnPTvotjYBOZ9GTDPNbkkhGjBbRVF1OsRXxp8tRQ6zskfu4P8UhOA3CxdFiCDmRTaWrFtBlU/s1600/R%2526K+Wedding.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 355px; height: 331px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsrCglalsdou41AfW4sgixZGdh_TLO5rpwkHcEs2cXnMqFm_NKNbN3pq2PaPv6zINzejM5gnPTvotjYBOZ9GTDPNbkkhGjBbRVF1OsRXxp8tRQ6zskfu4P8UhOA3CxdFiCDmRTaWrFtBlU/s400/R%2526K+Wedding.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5564115395286540402" /></a><br />A legend in talk show entertainment is leaving us! The Regis and Kelly Live show has come to an important time of change. Regis announced on the show that he would be retiring sometime this summer. This show has been host to so many great folks, many celebrities who have had a wonderful time visiting and performing on a show so widely enjoyed every morning. Regis, along with Kelly Rippa, made everyone feel welcome and put them at ease with their warm and funny personalities. Taylor Hicks was one of those lucky ones who made several appearances on the show.<br /><br />Taylor Hicks graced their stage for a variety of occasions. He performed his wonderful new single "What's Right is Right" and also performed with the cast of "Grease," singing "Beauty School Dropout" for fans to enjoy. He also took part in their Dating Game and was a good sport about having his date filmed and aired. And on another great episode, he sang a beautiful and memorable "The Right Place" from his first post Idol CD, Taylor Hicks, at the Wedding of the Century on Regis and Kelly's Wedding Week. The bride and groom requested this song and he moved us all when we watched and heard it.<br /><br />If you missed any of Taylor Hicks on Regis and Kelly, or just want to re-live the fun, check these appearances out here in our Regis and Kelly Live Lookback section. It's a great stroll down memory lane! Farewell, Regis! You will be so very missed!<br /><br />Taylor Hicks on Regis and Kelly:<br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/4c5usa7"> Regis and Kelly</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-23751656759622138962011-01-15T17:32:00.005-05:002011-01-15T17:38:59.547-05:00Taylor Hicks And the Cruise That Never Ends!Media is still flying from everywhere from those folks lucky enough to be on the Jam Cruise 9 adventure! It is the cruise that never ends! And at TaylorMadeOnline Media, we are fortunate to have so much Taylor Hicks shared with us to offer to our guests and members.<br /><br />If you are seriously in need of a Taylor Hicks fix and want to experience a little of Jam Cruise magic, check out our Jam Cruise 9 section for downloads, embeds, and photos of Taylor and the other many talented musicians on the cruise. We keep adding, as new media surfaces from those generous folks who were on hand to film it. So sail on by and get your fix :)<br /><br />Link to our Jam Cruise 9 Media:<br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/275hxgg"> JamCruise9</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-83895716031772661712011-01-12T22:10:00.008-05:002011-01-12T22:55:32.962-05:00Taylor Hicks And Jam Cruise 9_Wow Just Wow!<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZowHJlKl7GtMkwhgZ5UQ9_q156lOQ7DCq17tLVQ2dn00X9e9_fi5BWYTrvN13ZZ-ZIqhAmGTee1lVnmX7IxihFyfgGC9G-QyJRm9SqK-4rNSBOydvCDqZZUW3PHAJ81l4HTuokUq8jC1/s1600/taylor-hick-590be11011.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 247px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkZowHJlKl7GtMkwhgZ5UQ9_q156lOQ7DCq17tLVQ2dn00X9e9_fi5BWYTrvN13ZZ-ZIqhAmGTee1lVnmX7IxihFyfgGC9G-QyJRm9SqK-4rNSBOydvCDqZZUW3PHAJ81l4HTuokUq8jC1/s400/taylor-hick-590be11011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5561513815015705874" /></a><br />By all accounts from passengers and everyone connected with Jam Cruise 9, Taylor Hicks can cut the mustard! He generously gave his talents to numerous sit ins, as well as hosting their delightful Gong Show Event, and helped make this cruise a top favorite among all who were there. So much talent in one place, so many to enjoy it, and so very many rave reviews about our Soul Man!<br /><br />Many said Taylor Hicks made a lot of new fans. Those of us who already know what an amazing talent Taylor is can help out by giving his upcoming shows info to any Jam Cruise passengers we speak to. You never know who may decide to experience the Taylor Hicks magic again, and boy, do we ever know they are in for a TREAT with a CAPITAL T!<br /><br />For all of your Jam Cruise 9 media needs, TMO Media has a great thread with video clips both embedded and for downloading, photos, and cool comments about Taylor Hicks from those who saw, heard, and met him on this cruise. They loved our Soul Man! And so do we!<br /><br />Link to TMO Media's Jam Cruise 9 thread:<br /><a href="http://tinyurl.com/275hxgg"> JamCruise9</a><br /><br />Follow us on Twitter:<br /><a href="http://twitter.com/TMO_media"> TMO_Media on Twitter</a><br /><br />Photo by Brad Hodge.Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-77415455243482438682011-01-09T23:52:00.006-05:002011-01-10T00:01:48.390-05:00Taylor Hicks Rocks Jam Cruise 9!Taylor Hicks has been very active this fall and winter. And one of the best times with Taylor and many other talented artists occurred this last week on Jam Cruise 9.<br /><br />By all accounts, Taylor Hicks made himself known fondly by the various bands by offering to sit in with many of them and rocking the boat with his soulful and wonderful vocals, which were well received by all on hand.<br /><br />Iclips will have some great media from this. And make sure to visit Paul Mclaren's fabulous photo site for a special glimpse of the fun! Here is the link to his photos...thanks so much for sharing these, Paul!<br /><br /><a href="http://albums.phanfare.com/isolated/lBcPFLGt/1/4973162"> JamCruise9</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-25172609901701535582010-12-29T12:02:00.009-05:002010-12-29T12:23:04.549-05:00Taylor Hicks_2010 HighlightsWell, it's been quite a ride for Taylor Hicks and his fans who have followed him since his days on American Idol and his subsequent win. And 2010 has not changed that! This past year has been a whirlwind of changes and accomplishments for our Soul Man and rather than try to list them all here, I will just give you a link to a magical pictorial and video Journey through 2010 and Taylor Hicks enjoyment!<br /><br />Click the 2010 link below to stroll through a treasure trove of highlights and memories with Taylor Hicks, his band, and his fans. Have fun! I know I did and will continue to stick around for more in 2011!<br /><br /><a href=http://z15.invisionfree.com/TaylorMade/index.php?showforum=136>2010</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-55755616499050487652010-12-01T17:31:00.005-05:002010-12-02T00:21:52.597-05:00Taylor Hicks Is "Gran" for Clint Eastwood<object style="height: 390px; width: 640px"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q3bAPezallQ?version=3"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowScriptAccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Q3bAPezallQ?version=3" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowScriptAccess="always" width="640" height="390"></object><br />This past April, I lost my Dad. He lived to a wonderful age, but sadly most of it without my Mother. But the Gift she left him, which we enjoyed until he passed on, was that he became so much more open to Life and all its Joys. He also had some strong religious convictions which became altered with her leaving us.<br /><br />The movie "Gran Torino" has become very dear to me since his passing, for the obvious similarities and also because I live so close to where this was filmed and took some rides out that way with my Dad and Mom when I was younger. The song has always had a special place in my heart. But now after my Dad's death, to hear Taylor Hicks put his beautiful and soulful voice to it, has brought it to life for me again in a way that I am finding hard to even describe.<br /><br />So I will just say....you made the RIGHT CHOICE, Mr. Eastwood! Your exquisite movie and sound track, and Taylor Hicks are a match that has brought me tears and smiles all at once. There is no one else besides you who could have performed this in such a soulful and tender way. So thank you, Clint for the film and for giving Taylor Hicks this honor. And Taylor... for making this beautiful and moving performance available for us...Thank You from the bottom of my heart.<br /><br />I miss you, Daddy....<br /><br />To watch this on YouTube, go here:<br /><br /><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q3bAPezallQ">GranTorino</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3439498709184412453.post-63797975190357027812010-08-13T06:47:00.016-04:002010-08-13T08:55:52.934-04:00Taylor Hicks~Back To The Future<object width="480" height="385"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LKuk8up63X0?fs=1&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LKuk8up63X0?fs=1&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="480" height="385"></embed></object><br />"Nineteen...He was only Nineteen." Those words and this song touched the hearts of everyone who attended the show in Bay City, Michigan on August 7, 2010. I was one of those lucky people. All around me, people were moved to tears and heavy emotion during the best performance of this song Taylor Hicks has ever given. At the end, he received a heartfelt standing ovation. <br /><br />For those wondering what Taylor Hicks has been up to lately, the best way to answer that question is to buy a ticket and treat yourself to one of his new tour shows, which now extend into the fall. This is by far the best concert series he has ever done and without question to me, the finest band he's assembled since the Little Memphis Blues Days. Each musician is perfection, and the chemistry and fit between them all is a joy to behold. <br /><br />Taylor Hicks has gone back to his future...the Taylor Hicks who isn't being invented or fashioned by anyone but himself. His shows are true to his music, true to his style, and totally amazing. Each one gets better and better, each with a special touch designed to fit the venue and his audience. I attended the show in Cleveland, Ohio which was in a small club with an intimate setting. This one was mellow and rocked, but with that close bar feel where you are one with the musicians onstage and boy, did we ever feel that! The day after that was Bay City, Michigan. This was a state fair type atmosphere and truthfully, I wondered when I arrived, how this would play out. Bay City was a study in how an artist grabs an audience. There was only a small crowd for the opening bands because it was early in the evening and dinner time, so many were at the food stands or exhibits. At 7:11, Taylor Hicks and his band took the stage. MAGIC! This was a high energy, upbeat show and the seats suddenly became packed! It was so pleasing to see Taylor up there who kept things upbeat and rocking. Then....Taylor began to talk about the troops and those of us who knew what was coming sat forward a bit. I looked around me and wondered how this slower pace would affect the crowd. As Taylor sang this beautiful song, people began to lean forward, mesmerized. The man next to me was openly wiping his eyes and his wife was patting his shoulder. I felt my own tears graze my cheeks and could not believe the reaction from this audience. People were moved beyond what I'd ever seen at a concert and Taylor Hicks not only brought this audience to tears with his soulful performance, but received a thundering standing ovation. The rest of that brief show blew the roof off the tents there! "Back To Louisiana" was an experience to behold and the people were into it! More impressive was the enormously long line to meet this amazing artist and buy his CD and tshirts, and tell him how fabulous the show was. <br /><br />Can't say enough about the band! Brian Less, Jeff Lopez, Sam Gunderson, Brandon Peeples, Matt Kimbrell, and Leif Bondarenko have definitely got it going on and are truly one of the best groups of musicians assembled on a stage. So if you have been wondering what Taylor Hicks has been up to lately, GET YOURSELF A LIVE ANSWER! You won't regret a single moment and if you don't come away either a new fan or a present fan hit HARD over the head again with this man's talent, then I'll eat my new Taylor Hicks shirt :) To learn more about this amazing band, go here: <br /><a href="http://taylorconnections.com/topic/3567832/1/">Summer Band</a> <br /><a href=http://z15.invisionfree.com/TaylorMade/index.php?showforum=108>Band</a> <br /><br />To obtain a list of concert stops and dates, go here:<br /><a href="http://taylorconnections.com/topic/3568298/1//">Concert Dates</a>Gypseehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12330087334689908700noreply@blogger.com3