Author: Tyler Sobie
Date: 2009-06-16


Interview:
Taylor Hicks is best known for stealing the hearts, and votes, of American Idol viewers with his win on the sixth season of the television institution. Hicks recently released a new album, which was put out on his own label Modern Whomp Records, and has been touring the country as Teen Angel in a production of Grease. Hicks talked to us about his current role and how life has been since the Idol days.

When you started on American Idol did you ever think that you'd be involved with musical theater?

Taylor Hicks: Once I started talking to people that were in show business, you know, it's funny I was talking to Huey Lewis not too long ago and he was telling me that he played on a part on Broadway in Grease. When I think about it a lot of people have been coming in and out of Broadway, you know, and this role for me was a great role because it's an introductory role and it introduces me into acting and also from a standpoint to where I can observe it as well.

Have you ever thought about acting as a career option.

Taylor Hicks: Well the Teen Angel role is going pretty good so far. The reviews have been real good and with the right role I think I can get into it.

How would you describe your musical sound to someone who hasn't heard it.

Taylor Hicks: You know, I would describe it as kind of a retro Van Morrison, Bob Seger.

Do you think that comes from growing up listening to music like that? Did that influence your sound?

Taylor Hicks: I think it was growing up listening to really great songwriters and singers.

Who are your biggest influences?

Taylor Hicks: I think Ray Charles is one of them. Bob Seger, Van Morrison. Those guys really paved the way for me.