We asked the Soul Patrol last week to submit their stories of how their lives have been enriched by having Taylor Hicks in it. We received several stories and we’d like to share with you two of them. We want to thank everyone who submitted their story to us!!!
From Tygrlillie: Many years ago, I was in a very bad way. I was broke, pregnant, destitute, and alone - and hurting with an anguish that can't even be expressed properly in words. I don't think that this story is too different than anyone else's who has experienced heartache. I just pulled myself up by my bootstraps, and well, kept on keeping on. The difference for me was along the way, I had lost what remained of my shredded heart. Just put it in ice where nothing could get to it any more. For five long years, my heart lived in its snowy home while I worked on myself, getting back into college, learning how to drive, raising my baby daughter as best I could. Problem was, I couldn't feel any more. At first, I didn't want to. It really hurt like fire to try, but slowly the things that meant so much to me...well, they didn't matter either. My mainstays - reading, writing, music, plays - they all faded into nothingness. I lost who I was. Then...along came this somewhat dorky guy with a sweet, gentle heart, a very attractive outward appearance, and a voice made for pure sin. That guy was Taylor Hicks. I had never watched American Idol. Just never caught my attention. I think it was because during the five years it was on, I was iced up, but it just might be that with school and my kid - I didn't much care. But my professor offered extra credit if we watched either Idol or Nashville Star and wrote about who we thought would win. As I spent practically all my free time with an Idol addict, my choice to watch with her was essentially a no-brainer. I picked Tay out from his audition. Clinially, at first - he has the chops to pull this rabbit out of his hat, and was just different from the rest of the competition to stand out, but then - this amazing thing began to happen. I began to cheer him on every week, looking forward to what he'd do next. I began to enjoy some of the others as well, and began to write again. During the Birthday week, I laughed so much tears fell from my eyes, the first tears I had shed in five, long years. It was then that I knew this man had made an enormous impact in my life, though he never would know. Even now, two years later, Taylor has inspired me to not only exist through life, but to actually live it. I started small - travelling to Nashville - an hour's drive away - to see him during the Idol tour, got on the boards made some truly amazing friends I can't imagine life without now, and met his band from back home, LiMBO (and if there was any ice remaining at that point, those five sweet men sure melted that in a hurry, making me feel loved probably for the first time in my life), devoured stories about him and as I learned about one Taylor Hicks, I learned even more about myself. I learned about being brave, to fight for what I want and need in my life even if everybody around me thinks that it's crazy or asinine...to breathe real air and to live real life, on my terms. You know, five years before that January Tay strutted into my life, I thought I would never be free of the hell I had seen. I was returning to a world where I knew I wouldn't be loved or appreciated, coming from an abusive place where I was hurt so bad, I didn't care about my future or what it held for me. Now, I am about two semesters away from having my college degree - something I was told I could never do I don't know how many times. I am still in environmental hell, but know that in a relatively short amount of time, I will be living my American Dream, in a home of my own, in a job I love, with my kid who is a joy like nothing else, in a place I can call home - somewhere near Birmingham, Alabama where I felt like I was home the second I set foot there last March and again in July and can get regular doses of LiMBO to keep my heart pounding and regular intervals of Taylor wherever I have to travel to see him. And you know what? It feels so good...... It's simply amazing to me, how one man I'll never meet could impact my life so strongly. If I was ever afforded the opportunity and wasn't terrified to meet him, because I don't want to be forgotten by him (and I so would, lol), I'd want to say thanks. For making me feel stronger, better, happier, more...just more than I ever dreamed I could, more than I deserve, surely. Thanks, Tay. For gifting me back to myself. For teaching me that despite what people tell me every day, I am not worthless and I can make a change in the world, even if it is only my small corner of it. You help make me feel like a true princess, honey. Something everybody ought to feel at least once in their lives, and you and LiMBO make me feel as if I am something special and I am capable and I don't know how I survived so long without your music - your voice - as my companion. Just thank you - for every bit of it, Tay. My world is infinitely richer for having you and all your wonderful fans and friends and family in it. The amazing thing, if I might again add to the conversation, is that I have been inspired to help others feel the same way. Most of the Patrol knows that while I am rich in spirit, in hope, heart and - thank God - health and I have a heart and soul so full, my pockets are indeed too often to let. I'm just more involved - with everything. I want to help others succeed. I want to help my friends who have even less than I do, and believe me - that's precious little. I've been so honoured to call myself Soul Patrol, because I believe in it - in what it stands for. For me, it's not about accumulating items that proclaim me a Tay fan - though I have and cherish those items dearly. It's about giving of yourself, your soul, your entity - reaching out to shelter those lost in the storm where you were a short time ago. It's about listening to the stories of those who were there before you, teaching your story to those following behind. It's about dreaming big, not just for you, but those around you. It's about love - a love so pure, so real that a person can never deny it' genuineness. It's about finding a kindred spirit so like your own, from so far away. It's like being a part - small but important - of a real family, when chances are good you've never had that before. It's being able to breathe freely, love totally without fear of reprisal, and getting rid of the pain that haunts you for an hour or two and getting lost in the music. It might have started with Taylor, and thank God it did, but...it's not even all about Tay anymore. It's not about his music entirely any more. It's about the fostering of spirit, the sharing of souls, the tears shed to build a foundation of giving and receiving, love, affection, and joy unlike anything I've ever known. It's about being who you are and damn the consequences of that. It's about keeping it real and really keeping it - faith, hope, love, trust, joy, laughter, and more - for all time. I'm proud to call myself Soul Patrol because I know what we are capable of - I see our potential - and our hearts were forever changed by one man who is doing the best he can to emulate these qualities for me. How can I truly do anything less than that? ~ Next, we’d like to share PoetCindy’s story with you: Taylor has inspired me in many different things. But mostly in writing. I have always enjoyed writing, however I had gotten to a point in my life where I was just writing articles about things that would make me a few dollars. The fun of writing was not there any more. Then I discovered Taylor. I started writing articles about Taylor. Then I started interviewing fans and writing articles about their Taylor experiences in attending concerts and/or meeting the Soul man. Writing for the fun of it was back again. I so loved sharing with people any information I could find about Taylor. Because I had written so many pieces about Taylor the site I was submitting them to, wrote and asked me if I would like to interview Taylor himself. I remember reading that email over and over again convinced I was not reading and understanding it correctly. I mean to write and ask if I wanted to Interview Taylor over the phone. I just could not believe this was actually going to happen. Up until the day the phone rang and I heard Taylor’s voice I still felt this was a joke and it would never in a million years happen. I can still remember the nervousness, joy and excitement I felt that day. After the interview was done and I let it settle in that I had actually talked to Taylor Hicks and was now going to publish this interview online for everyone to read, I realized how much I enjoyed talking with him about his music and future plans. A few days later the people who had set up the interview with Taylor emailed about interviewing Kat McPhee and then Kellie Pickler. I knew there were several other musicians I would love to interview but wasn’t sure how to go about getting interviews with them I remembered Taylor saying that if you have a dream you have to go after it and work hard and that dreams do come true. So I started emailing various musicians always letting them know about my previous interviews, definitely Taylor and requesting interviews with them. I have since interviewed several musicians and even got a second interview with Taylor. I tell everyone it is all due to discovering Taylor and enjoying his music so much. That first interview with Taylor gave me a chance to get other interviews and it just grew from there. Taylor inspired me to go after my dreams and work hard to make them happen. There is no doubt in my mind that being a fan of Taylor is the reason I moved on to the field of interviewing musicians. It doesn’t pay great that is for sure, sometimes nothing, but I am having a blast and loving every minute of it. Some things in life mean much more than any amount of money. My kids love to tell their friends and teachers who I have interviewed. They are so proud that they can say their Mom has talked to so and so. My daughter has already let me know that she wants the taped recordings of the interviews left to her so when she has kids and grandkids she can share them with them. Taylor put the love of music and writing back into my heart. Tags: Taylor Hicks, American Idol, Soul Patrol, Taylor's Angels
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Thursday, May 15, 2008
The Official "Taylor Hicks Day" Inspires Stories from the Soul Patrol
Monday, May 12, 2008
Taylors Hicks.... Boots, Blues and Barbeque!
Hannah Home Shelby Fundraiser
by Sam Griswold
"We've probably all called Hannah Home to come get some stuff from us at one point in time," says Taylor Hicks - musical guest for the fundraising event."
Hicks even came prepared for the "Boots, Blues, & Barbecue" fundraiser: "It's a great cause...and I'm wearing the old boots, and got some blues, and I just had some barbecue."
Alongside Taylor Hicks was Alabama's first lady Patsy Riley, who was originally supposed to be there with the governor who was unable to attend. Mrs. Riley says she understands the value of what missions like Hannah Home do: "Many mothers have to leave a dangerous situation because they're not only fearful for themselves with domestic abuse, but they're very fearful for their children."
Tammy Black is a mother who's been at Hannah Home Shelby for three years.
"Being able to go through all those programs that the Hannah Home helps provide for the women there.. It's really helped me out a lot: which, it also, about a year later or so... it helped me get my son back. I mean, I almost lost custody of him," says Black.
Tammy Black is also thankful for those who care enough to support a mission like Hannah Home.
"We wouldn't have this if it hadn't been for caring people and most of all if it hadn't been for the Lord."
In addition to long-term housing for up to 50 women and children, Hannah Home of Shelby County provides food, clothing, counseling and a number of classes and programs to help the women get back on their feet.
Pictures by: DNET(Thanks for taking one for the team)
For more pictures, video downloads and mp3's of the event visit: www.thetaylorhickscommunity.com
Tags: Taylor Hicks, American Idol, Soul Patrol, Taylor's Angels
Monday, May 05, 2008
Taylor Hicks at the Kentucky Derby
Enjoy some pictures and video of Taylor Hicks at the Kentucky Derby!
Video Montage by: Cydter Tags: Taylor Hicks, American Idol, Soul Patrol, Taylor's AngelsSaturday, April 26, 2008
Taylor Hicks Inspires Soul and Spirituality in Canada
“One of the most important things that my interest in the career of Taylor Hicks has brought me is a renewed interest in spirituality. He is a well rounded musician and human being. He not only focuses on his craft, but he often displays his understanding and empathy to those who are “victims of circumstance”. Whether it has been a hurricane, the Gulf War or a very “special” child in need of his attention, Taylor is not afraid to show his compassion and generosity. He has inspired many within his fan base to follow his example and I think that he can be very proud of the many good things that they do for others.”
These are the inspirational words penned by one of Taylor Hicks’ biggest supporters. Each month, Taylor’s Angels receives nominations for the Hero of the Month award from Taylor Hicks’ Soul Patrol community. Oftentimes, the selection process if very difficult because of the wonderful support that Taylor’s fans are forever giving to the fan base and to the community. This month, the selection was not difficult in the least, but did take us on a journey to her world in Canada!
The recipient of this month’s beautiful eternity Angel bracelet is most deserving. She is an inspiration to all and truly has a “heart full of soul”. If you read her posts on the fan sites, you can see that much thought goes into every word. She does not simply reply in a thread, her words are insightful and oftentimes inspirational. She is a friend to many and always portrays Taylor Hicks and his fans in a positive and respectful manner. One of her main goals on fan sites is to promote a sense of unity.
First and foremost, this month’s recipient is a dedicated supporter of Taylor Hicks and simply wants to do anything to help keep Taylor's name and music in the forefront. One way she has done this is through her skillfully crafted videos, which are superb! In fact, her take on Taylor’s single, “Just to Feel That Way”, is consistently climbing the “charts” at YouTube and is the highest viewed JTFTW video with over 11,000 hits. In the past year, it has been seen in 105 countries! She has put together many, many more wonderful videos of Taylor Hicks, and some of her favorites are highlighted in this blog.
We congratulate KarinP on her selection as Taylor’s Angels Hero of the Month and urge you to read more about this wonderfully uplifting and loyal Taylor Hicks fan!
Taylor's Angels: Tell us about yourself.
Karin: I am the mother of two adult daughters – an “empty nester”, I suppose you could call me. Life, fortunately for me, is rather uncomplicated most of the time and with five young grandchildren, life can be very busy at times. As Joe Walsh used to sing, “Life’s Been Good to Me” despite the many twists and turns along the way.
Taylor's Angels: Besides Taylor, what are your hobbies and interests?
Karin: In the Spring and Summer, you will often find me in the garden. I enjoy going for walks along the lake as well. I am very interested in music and today as I was reflecting on past memories in my life, I was reminded of the many times that music was a safe haven for me during very difficult times.
I volunteer 50-60 hours a month in my community which can be very rewarding and, at the same time, I see very sad and tragic circumstances that others find themselves in. It keeps me grounded in the real world and it reminds me how fragile life really is. My “hot” button, as some of you know, is domestic violence and child abuse. While physical abuse is deplorable, broken bones and bruises heal but the emotional abuse scars a child for life and in my opinion, it is the most difficult wound to heal.
Since my induction into the world of Taylor Hicks, I spend a great deal of time on the computer and I enjoy trying to learn new programs and unleashing the creativity that I didn’t even know existed in me.
Taylor's Angels: How did you become interested in Taylor's music and what is it about Taylor Hicks that caught your attention?
Karin: I watched American Idol for the first time in January 2006. Taylor intrigued me right from the beginning at the Las Vegas auditions. I saw a young man with gray hair who had a somewhat boyish charm and I listened to his story about starting to turn gray when he was 15 years old. He was genuine when he said “I am just who I am”. My first impression was that I loved his speaking voice and I was anxious to hear what he was going to sing. Needless to say, I was hooked.
I became an even more avid supporter after Simon told Taylor that it wasn’t “just” about the voice and then said, “They will not put you in the final group to be judged by the public” – words that later would come back to haunt Simon.
On Hollywood Bound week, Taylor’s answered a question from Ryan by saying: “It’s music, man. If music is in your heart, you feel it, you play it, you sing it, you perform it, you bust your buns doing it and that is what it is all about.”. He really impressed me when he said those words and I was determined to follow his career.
Taylor's Angels: How have the Canadians received Taylor's music?
Karin: I must confess that there were some in my circle who supported Daughtry but after Chris left the show, they all became Taylor Hicks fans. Since AI, most people I know and whom I meet, went back to their lives and didn’t end up where I found myself. Through many conversations, they soon found out that I was a walking encyclopedia about all things Taylor. Taylor’s CD has not received any radio play in Canada, much to my dismay. Many wondered what had happened to Taylor and I was more than eager to let them know all of the things that Taylor was doing. Most were unaware of his ability to really play the harp or even a guitar. The people that I have talked to about Taylor have nothing but admiration for his talent as seen on AI and I am always sending them to YouTube so that they can see the many concert videos that are available there.
Taylor's Angels: You have made some awesome videos. What is your inspiration for making your videos?
Karin: Thank you for your kind words. As I watched the videos on YouTube, the montages, I became really interested in learning how to make them. It started out as a personal challenge for me and then it became a hobby. With help from fellow posters on TOSP, I was able to master the program and now I am “hooked” on making them when the spirit moves me. In the beginning, it was the pictures and then when Taylor released his CD, some of the songs really touched me and I felt the need to tell a story or convey a message. The availability of the videos and photographs that have been so generously shared on many of the fan boards have made it possible for me to do continue doing this. I hope that they are a positive contribution in some small way. I am always hopeful that they will draw new fans and promote Taylor’s music.
There was one video in particular that was driven by a personal crisis last year, “Have We Told You Lately”. (Unfortunately, I was politely asked by YouTube to remove it because I was using a Van Morrison song.) A very good friend of mine suddenly passed away. I was in shock and found it difficult to function normally. I didn’t know how to pull myself out of my despair and then, I decided to watch some of the many videos on YouTube of Taylor and I realized that I began to feel better after watching them. Through following Taylor’s music and his career, I realized that perhaps, for some karmic reason, this was something I needed to do and Taylor, unknowingly, helped pull me out of a very dark and sad place. If only one of the videos can do that for one person, then to me, it is a worthwhile investment of my time.
Taylor's Angels: We know that the current Canadian Idol is from your hometown. What has that been like and how is Canadian Idol different from American Idol?
Karin: The first difference that comes to mind is that we don’t have Simon as a judge here. (I’m kidding, of course…hmmm.) I could be wrong about this, but I am not so sure that there is the same type of deliberate influence from the judges as seen on the American Idol. It was a very proud moment for my city and while I did not go downtown where they were viewing the final show, I saw the excitement in the streets on YouTube and it was very evident that everyone was thrilled that Brian won. His life was changed so dramatically that night. It is an incredible opportunity for aspiring musicians to have their ultimate dreams come true.
Taylor's Angels: Have you attended any Taylor concerts? Tell us about your experience.
Karin: I have been able to attend two of Taylor’s concerts. The first one was in Royal Oak, Michigan and it was an incredible experience. I met many people there and it was an opportunity for me to meet some people who I had become “cyber-friends” with. The second concert I attended was in Niagara Falls, New York and once again, it provided me with an opportunity to meet more people. Needless to say, I was able to once again enjoy Taylor’s music in person which was fantastic for me. I am looking forward to having Taylor come to Canada.
Taylor's Angels: How has Taylor Hicks affected your life?
Karin: I am reminded of something that happened in the summer of 2006. A woman sits beside me at the computer as we had done on many evenings. I introduced her to the “Soul Man” via the Internet. She seemed to really understand the magnetism that Taylor possesses.
She was weary, heartbroken and lost. She has lived through so much abuse during her lifetime. A “broken” soul is what she was. She finally had gained the courage after 11 years to walk away from the most recent abuser. She didn’t walk; she ran with the clothes on her back and had to leave her children behind in a relatively safe place in another city.
We sit and we watch the videos of Taylor Hicks. We watch his triumphant winning moment on American Idol and listen to Taylor sing “Do I Make You Proud”. The woman sits and she listens. Finally, she speaks and expresses one of her thoughts about Taylor. Tears welled in her eyes as she uttered that the reason she had become a supporter of Taylor was because he made her believe that realizing your dream is possible. He persisted in his dream and through sheer determination and belief in his gift, he had realized his life-long dream. His voice was heard by millions of people.
We listened to the song again, neither of us speaking. Each and every time she listened to this song, the tears flowed easily. It reached her deep inside and touched her very soul. Then, I heard my sister say, “I always think of you when I hear this song and I wonder if “you” are proud of me?”. “Yes”, I tell her, “I am very PROUD of you.” It has been a long and difficult road for her to travel and she has succeeded.
A “Taylor” moment between sisters and we both wondered if Taylor Hicks would ever know how much he has touched the lives of others. This is the magic of Taylor Hicks at its very best.
One of the most important things that my interest in Taylor’s career has brought me is a renewed interest in spirituality. He is a well rounded musician and human being. He not only focuses on his craft, but he often displays his understanding and empathy to those who are “victims of circumstance”. Whether it has been a hurricane, the Gulf War or a very “special” child in need of his attention, Taylor is not afraid to show his compassion and generosity. He has inspired many within his fan base to follow his example and I think that he can be very proud of the many good things that they do for others.
As he continues to travel new horizons, I hope that life brings Taylor Hicks the joy that he continues to give to countless others.
Taylor’s Angels once again congratulates Karin on being selected as our Hero of the Month and invite you to leave a congratulatory comment for her, which may inspire her to make more awesome videos to share!
Edited by Tina (DidNotExpectThat)
Videos by KarinP
Picture Credit: Cydter -Millersville
Tags: Taylor Hicks, American Idol, Soul Patrol, Taylor's Angels
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