Comments on: Taylor Hicks to Star in National Tour of ‘Grease’ http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm American Idol - I Love This Cheesy Show Fri, 19 Mar 2010 04:46:50 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 hourly 1 By: just sayin http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-153814 just sayin Fri, 03 Oct 2008 19:23:53 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-153814 Color me very disappointed. <em>"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. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s what its all about!"</em> --Taylor Hicks I miss THAT guy. Color me very disappointed.

“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. Thatà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s what its all about!”
–Taylor Hicks

I miss THAT guy.

]]> By: Glamour http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-151196 Glamour Tue, 23 Sep 2008 16:44:35 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-151196 I strongly doubt, at this point in time, that AI, Simon Cowell or Simon Fuller want anything to do with Taylor. They only promote contestants who have made a splash in the music industry and Taylor has not done anything yet, nor does he have anything to promote. I strongly doubt, at this point in time, that AI, Simon Cowell or Simon Fuller want anything to do with Taylor. They only promote contestants who have made a splash in the music industry and Taylor has not done anything yet, nor does he have anything to promote.

]]> By: hicksaholic http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-151038 hicksaholic Mon, 22 Sep 2008 20:17:18 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-151038 "Why does Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performing in a variety of venues create such a stir? Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s amazing how magnetic the man is. He attracts fans and detractors like no other performer Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve seen." It really is strange isn't it? It seems like regardless of whether you believe Taylor has a large or a small fanbase I don't think it could be argued that he has a very vested fanbase. For some reason he has qualities(I guess charisma or magnetism) that draw your interest in his success to a very strong level. I can't explain it. I doubt Taylor has any major problems financial or otherwise that would require his fans to be so concerned for his welfare but for some reason they are. Because there is such a strong interest in all of his business decisions there is a lot of angst among the fans who so badly want him to suceed (typically at the fan's definition of success). I really think Taylor still has the same qualities that draw fans to him as he had when he was so wildly popular on AI. I think if he can ever get in front of the public again on a big scale he can recapture that magic. For whatever reason, he did not get the promo others got. Because of that it becomes out of site out of mind for virtually everyone. I have often thought Simon Cowell or Simon Fuller ought to be able to come up with something that involved a comeback for Taylor. People would eat it up I bet. “Why does Taylorà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s performing in a variety of venues create such a stir?

Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s amazing how magnetic the man is. He attracts fans and detractors like no other performer Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve seen.”

It really is strange isn’t it? It seems like regardless of whether you believe Taylor has a large or a small fanbase I don’t think it could be argued that he has a very vested fanbase. For some reason he has qualities(I guess charisma or magnetism) that draw your interest in his success to a very strong level. I can’t explain it. I doubt Taylor has any major problems financial or otherwise that would require his fans to be so concerned for his welfare but for some reason they are.

Because there is such a strong interest in all of his business decisions there is a lot of angst among the fans who so badly want him to suceed (typically at the fan’s definition of success).

I really think Taylor still has the same qualities that draw fans to him as he had when he was so wildly popular on AI. I think if he can ever get in front of the public again on a big scale he can recapture that magic. For whatever reason, he did not get the promo others got. Because of that it becomes out of site out of mind for virtually everyone.

I have often thought Simon Cowell or Simon Fuller ought to be able to come up with something that involved a comeback for Taylor. People would eat it up I bet.

]]> By: hickifino http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150825 hickifino Sat, 20 Sep 2008 18:44:40 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150825 An actor performs in TV, movies, plays, and special events. A musician performs on TV, movie soundtracks, musical theater, and special events. Why does Taylor's performing in a variety of venues create such a stir? It's amazing how magnetic the man is. He attracts fans and detractors like no other performer I've seen. Almost everyone has an interest in Taylor! An actor performs in TV, movies, plays, and special events.

A musician performs on TV, movie soundtracks, musical theater, and special events.

Why does Taylor’s performing in a variety of venues create such a stir?

It’s amazing how magnetic the man is. He attracts fans and detractors like no other performer I’ve seen. Almost everyone has an interest in Taylor!

]]> By: dante http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150813 dante Sat, 20 Sep 2008 17:44:33 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150813 I remember people saying things like "Taylor is set for life financially " etc after the idol tour, Ford commercial, private gigs, his successful tour etc. What happened to all that money? I thought he was supposedly commanding $50,000 for an appearance? And he supposedly got $500,000 for the Ford commercial? I think one reason he is losing fans is that once he lost Gray Charles, he never cared to or was able to get a good website up and running. I have partly lost interest in him as he doesn't communicate much with his fanbase. And many of the things I hear from him don't pan out. I still wish him luck, but it is hard to keep faith. I will always be on the lookout for a return to the Taylor music I loved so much. I remember people saying things like “Taylor is set for life financially ” etc after the idol tour, Ford commercial, private gigs, his successful tour etc. What happened to all that money? I thought he was supposedly commanding $50,000 for an appearance? And he supposedly got $500,000 for the Ford commercial?

I think one reason he is losing fans is that once he lost Gray Charles, he never cared to or was able to get a good website up and running. I have partly lost interest in him as he doesn’t communicate much with his fanbase. And many of the things I hear from him don’t pan out.

I still wish him luck, but it is hard to keep faith. I will always be on the lookout for a return to the Taylor music I loved so much.

]]> By: Glamour http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150805 Glamour Sat, 20 Sep 2008 16:13:37 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150805 I think many people are scatching their heads over Taylor Hicks. I keep wondering how does it come down to this? You are handed something on a silver platter, he got so much attention after his win. He was everywhere - magazines, TV, commercials, etc. I think most of the excitement was due to the fact that he was the most unlikely winner. Someone who struggled and had a tough life. Everyone loves to see the underdog win. I can't imagine what the guy is going thru now and it's come down to singing Beauty School Dropout in a Grease tour. You're right, blueisyou, this would make a killer movie and it's already a tragedy. But, it would make a greater story if he could somehow make a comeback. Everything is possible, in life. I think many people are scatching their heads over Taylor Hicks. I keep wondering how does it come down to this? You are handed something on a silver platter, he got so much attention after his win. He was everywhere – magazines, TV, commercials, etc. I think most of the excitement was due to the fact that he was the most unlikely winner. Someone who struggled and had a tough life. Everyone loves to see the underdog win.

I can’t imagine what the guy is going thru now and it’s come down to singing Beauty School Dropout in a Grease tour.

You’re right, blueisyou, this would make a killer movie and it’s already a tragedy. But, it would make a greater story if he could somehow make a comeback. Everything is possible, in life.

]]> By: bluegreen http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150743 bluegreen Sat, 20 Sep 2008 05:22:50 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150743 Mia said, "Following various Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s lives unfold from expectations to realities is a gripping docudrama. To me Taylor looks lost. He no longer seems to know who he is." Mia has such a great point, although I am not sure if he doesn't know who he is or if he just doesn't care who we think he is as long as he is making money. I definitely feel there are some "dark corners" that he keeps far away from most folks and most particularly his fans. Reading all the comments, I realize that I find the topic of Taylor Hicks still fascinating, as the question, not just of Taylor Hicks but of his authenticity, how people feel about all that, seems to really matter somehow, even to matter painfully. And I'm no exception. I don't know what it all means but I think his story will make a killer movie someday. I just hope it's not a tragedy. Mia said, “Following various Idolà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s lives unfold from expectations to realities is a gripping docudrama. To me Taylor looks lost. He no longer seems to know who he is.”

Mia has such a great point, although I am not sure if he doesn’t know who he is or if he just doesn’t care who we think he is as long as he is making money. I definitely feel there are some “dark corners” that he keeps far away from most folks and most particularly his fans.

Reading all the comments, I realize that I find the topic of Taylor Hicks still fascinating, as the question, not just of Taylor Hicks but of his authenticity, how people feel about all that, seems to really matter somehow, even to matter painfully. And I’m no exception. I don’t know what it all means but I think his story will make a killer movie someday. I just hope it’s not a tragedy.

]]> By: blueisyou http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150585 blueisyou Fri, 19 Sep 2008 20:12:25 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150585 Glamour, I do think people are starting to figure this out. If his word doesn't mean much, what is there? I have been saying this for a few months now. Even on this very blog I got in a debate about the size of Taylor's fan base. People argued that his fan base was huge, I disagreed, pointing out that his sites have very few members. People again disagreed, saying many fans don't use the computer. Now the numbers for EW came out proving that the SP is a far cry from big. It is tiny and he cannot afford to have this many fans disappointed in his decisions. He just doesn't have that liberty. He has taken the BS too far and it's becoming painfully obvious. I see it as lying to his fans. I'm starting to wonder if some of the BS he was accused of in the past is true as well. That's a scary thought. Glamour, I do think people are starting to figure this out. If his word doesn’t mean much, what is there? I have been saying this for a few months now. Even on this very blog I got in a debate about the size of Taylor’s fan base. People argued that his fan base was huge, I disagreed, pointing out that his sites have very few members. People again disagreed, saying many fans don’t use the computer. Now the numbers for EW came out proving that the SP is a far cry from big. It is tiny and he cannot afford to have this many fans disappointed in his decisions. He just doesn’t have that liberty.

He has taken the BS too far and it’s becoming painfully obvious. I see it as lying to his fans. I’m starting to wonder if some of the BS he was accused of in the past is true as well. That’s a scary thought.

]]> By: Glamour http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150526 Glamour Fri, 19 Sep 2008 18:32:33 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150526 I agree with you blueisyou. He should have passed on this. If he wants to do music, there's always a way to do it even on a limited budget. I'm afraid this was the final straw for many of his fans. Can't imagine there would be any anything to talk about in the next year, while he's on the road doing Grease. As far as his next CD, I'll believe it, when I see it. In the meantime, take everything he says with a grain of salt. You can only take the BS so far, then people start to catch on to you and when fans stop believing, you're in trouble. I agree with you blueisyou. He should have passed on this. If he wants to do music, there’s always a way to do it even on a limited budget. I’m afraid this was the final straw for many of his fans. Can’t imagine there would be any anything to talk about in the next year, while he’s on the road doing Grease. As far as his next CD, I’ll believe it, when I see it. In the meantime, take everything he says with a grain of salt. You can only take the BS so far, then people start to catch on to you and when fans stop believing, you’re in trouble.

]]> By: blueisyou http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150423 blueisyou Fri, 19 Sep 2008 05:00:01 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150423 Pj, you're right. He has lost street cred - even from many of the fans that looked past the Idol stuff and tried to see him as something more real. I guess if he was a serious musician like he's claimed so many times, he wouldn't have sold his soul on AI and would have somehow figured out to get a record deal the regular old way. He's willing to sell anything, that includes his dignity, his soul, meet and greets and spit filled harmonicas. I like AI too, but not for musicians like Taylor claimed to be. Those types would generally steer clear from it. Pj, you’re right. He has lost street cred – even from many of the fans that looked past the Idol stuff and tried to see him as something more real. I guess if he was a serious musician like he’s claimed so many times, he wouldn’t have sold his soul on AI and would have somehow figured out to get a record deal the regular old way. He’s willing to sell anything, that includes his dignity, his soul, meet and greets and spit filled harmonicas.

I like AI too, but not for musicians like Taylor claimed to be. Those types would generally steer clear from it.

]]> By: pj http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150418 pj Fri, 19 Sep 2008 04:06:36 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150418 Well, my guess is that this is a way for him to make money and keep himself in the public eye while he secures an indie deal. I think if he had one, he'd be focusing on that, recording, and an upcoming tour, etc. That costs money. Sad but true. I doubt he's doing "Grease" because he loves singing "Beauty School Drop Out." At the same time, deals take time and I think it's better he does something while he negotiates. I know the purists will disagree. I think he lost street cred (if he ever had it) a long time ago. At least he's not hosting Bingo nights! <blockquote>I canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think of any serious musician with any dignity who would do it.</blockquote> This isn't necessarily a reference to Taylor, but serious musicians do lots of stuff to pay the bills, including playing music that isn't their cup of tea. All serious musicians don't have the luxury of picking and choosing. Just sayin... ETA: I could say that I don't know any serious musicians with any dignity that would try out for AI, but that would make me a hypocrite, I guess. I love the show. LOL. Well, my guess is that this is a way for him to make money and keep himself in the public eye while he secures an indie deal. I think if he had one, he’d be focusing on that, recording, and an upcoming tour, etc. That costs money. Sad but true. I doubt he’s doing “Grease” because he loves singing “Beauty School Drop Out.” At the same time, deals take time and I think it’s better he does something while he negotiates. I know the purists will disagree. I think he lost street cred (if he ever had it) a long time ago. At least he’s not hosting Bingo nights!

I canà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t think of any serious musician with any dignity who would do it.

This isn’t necessarily a reference to Taylor, but serious musicians do lots of stuff to pay the bills, including playing music that isn’t their cup of tea. All serious musicians don’t have the luxury of picking and choosing. Just sayin…

ETA: I could say that I don’t know any serious musicians with any dignity that would try out for AI, but that would make me a hypocrite, I guess. I love the show. LOL.

]]> By: blueisyou http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150414 blueisyou Fri, 19 Sep 2008 03:29:17 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150414 Grease is a reality show play that has been panned by all respectable critics. It's a bad play to begin with. Why would he even want to be associated to a play cast off a reality show? To make matters worse Grease on the road is an gigantic step down. Broadway is high end, the tour is low end. Of course he should have passed it up. I can't think of any serious musician with any dignity who would do it. It just really reeks of desperation and feels like he's holding on for dear life. He'd be better off leaving on a high note, but I guess he can't pass up anything in fear that there's nothing else. I'm pretty sure that's the truth. I don't believe he's recording his album right now or in the next few months, as there would be no point since he can't market it since he'll be too busy doing Grease for the next year. He's just trying to appease his fans as usual and as usual they believe every word even though his word doesn't mean much. Whomp at the Warfield. Grease is a reality show play that has been panned by all respectable critics. It’s a bad play to begin with. Why would he even want to be associated to a play cast off a reality show? To make matters worse Grease on the road is an gigantic step down. Broadway is high end, the tour is low end.

Of course he should have passed it up. I can’t think of any serious musician with any dignity who would do it. It just really reeks of desperation and feels like he’s holding on for dear life. He’d be better off leaving on a high note, but I guess he can’t pass up anything in fear that there’s nothing else. I’m pretty sure that’s the truth. I don’t believe he’s recording his album right now or in the next few months, as there would be no point since he can’t market it since he’ll be too busy doing Grease for the next year. He’s just trying to appease his fans as usual and as usual they believe every word even though his word doesn’t mean much. Whomp at the Warfield.

]]> By: tayistheoneiwant http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150310 tayistheoneiwant Thu, 18 Sep 2008 16:32:53 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150310 Taylor doesn't have to answer to anyone but himself. Ever hear of "don't bite the hand that feeds you?" Well this is exactly what happened. Grease saw an opportunity (as he was so successful in NYC) and guess what? So did he, took it as his next project and it feeds him. Did anyone expect him to say "No, I don't want to Star in Grease's National Tour?" Have followed many musicians in my life and whatever they announced was going to happen, I was totally satisfied with it. New doors open and don't know of any entertainer of sound body and mind that would pass this up. Later for the CD, it is coming out, I'll wait. Taylor doesn’t have to answer to anyone but himself. Ever hear of “don’t bite the hand that feeds you?” Well this is exactly what happened. Grease saw an opportunity (as he was so successful in NYC) and guess what? So did he, took it as his next project and it feeds him. Did anyone expect him to say “No, I don’t want to Star in Grease’s National Tour?” Have followed many musicians in my life and whatever they announced was going to happen, I was totally satisfied with it. New doors open and don’t know of any entertainer of sound body and mind that would pass this up. Later for the CD, it is coming out, I’ll wait.

]]> By: blueisyou http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-4#comment-150277 blueisyou Thu, 18 Sep 2008 08:08:55 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150277 He says he has an album coming out. Well, he's been saying that for months. He says a lot of things. They never pan out. I think he tells people what they want to hear and has no problems totally bsing his fans and stringing them along. I just don't think he has any integrity. And now he's touring Grease? Wow. So bad. He says he has an album coming out. Well, he’s been saying that for months. He says a lot of things. They never pan out. I think he tells people what they want to hear and has no problems totally bsing his fans and stringing them along. I just don’t think he has any integrity. And now he’s touring Grease? Wow. So bad.

]]> By: abbysee http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150274 abbysee Thu, 18 Sep 2008 05:30:39 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150274 <blockquote>The longer he hams it up in musical theater, the less likely heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll be taken seriously once, or if he ever, settles down to make some serious music. <strong>We may not agree on this, but I do think he has it in him to make a solid, substantial record</strong>.</blockquote> I totally agree.

The longer he hams it up in musical theater, the less likely heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ll be taken seriously once, or if he ever, settles down to make some serious music. We may not agree on this, but I do think he has it in him to make a solid, substantial record.

I totally agree.

]]> By: Grammie Kari http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150271 Grammie Kari Thu, 18 Sep 2008 04:51:47 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150271 Taylor does have an album coming out soon. Right? Taylor does have an album coming out soon. Right?

]]> By: hicksaholic http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150176 hicksaholic Wed, 17 Sep 2008 15:33:08 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150176 Just read this whole thread and I have to say it is so refreshing to come to a place where everyone has varying opinions that are respected without a big backlash. I agree with almost everything dante said except I haven't moved on to other musicians. No one has touched me musically like Taylor so I will wait it out and pray for that incredible sophomore album. But meanwhile I am not happy with the Grease tour. It may be wonderful for him financially and given the same decision maybe I would have done the same but if so Taylor should stop the it's all about the music talk and say for now at least it's all about the money. And maybe that is what he was hinting at in his last message on Headquarters. Dingo great to hear from you. Mj thanks so much for your blog- you have just the right mix of letting everyone post their own opinions and modding when necessary. I don't think many could do the fantastic job you do. Just read this whole thread and I have to say it is so refreshing to come to a place where everyone has varying opinions that are respected without a big backlash. I agree with almost everything dante said except I haven’t moved on to other musicians. No one has touched me musically like Taylor so I will wait it out and pray for that incredible sophomore album. But meanwhile I am not happy with the Grease tour. It may be wonderful for him financially and given the same decision maybe I would have done the same but if so Taylor should stop the it’s all about the music talk and say for now at least it’s all about the money. And maybe that is what he was hinting at in his last message on Headquarters.

Dingo great to hear from you.

Mj thanks so much for your blog- you have just the right mix of letting everyone post their own opinions and modding when necessary. I don’t think many could do the fantastic job you do.

]]> By: jenniewdc http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150150 jenniewdc Wed, 17 Sep 2008 12:55:48 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150150 The Teen Angel part in Grease is what it is. I'm not crazy about the whole thing, as I posted earlier, but -- in the interest of accuracy -- Taylor's part is a cameo. Grease has always featured a "name" performer in that part. There's a difference between a cameo/featured role, and a walk-on or an extra, where someone has few if any lines, no song and no buzz. The Teen Angel part in Grease is what it is. I’m not crazy about the whole thing, as I posted earlier, but — in the interest of accuracy — Taylor’s part is a cameo. Grease has always featured a “name” performer in that part. There’s a difference between a cameo/featured role, and a walk-on or an extra, where someone has few if any lines, no song and no buzz.

]]> By: jpfan http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150143 jpfan Wed, 17 Sep 2008 11:51:08 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150143 My last post on this topic I promise. I actually thought Taylor was doing 7 weeks of Grease and looked again and saw it was 7 months!!! And Teen Angel is a tiny part. There's just no way this is about anything but money which is fine. Ruben Studdard did a tour with another Broadway show and that was no biggie. If Taylor hadn't made so many comments about bring real music back, etc,. it wouldn't be a blimp on the radar. It's just the irony of the whole thing, Anyway, Grease could be touring for years so lots of opportunities for future AI alums looking for work. My last post on this topic I promise. I actually thought Taylor was doing 7 weeks of Grease and looked again and saw it was 7 months!!! And Teen Angel is a tiny part. There’s just no way this is about anything but money which is fine. Ruben Studdard did a tour with another Broadway show and that was no biggie. If Taylor hadn’t made so many comments about bring real music back, etc,. it wouldn’t be a blimp on the radar. It’s just the irony of the whole thing, Anyway, Grease could be touring for years so lots of opportunities for future AI alums looking for work.

]]> By: pj http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150131 pj Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:08:10 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150131 MJ, I've noticed fans are the harshest critics sometimes. :) I really don't see much chance of him being taken seriously, though. He's perfect for AAA, but they don't take AI types. They'll put up with Amy Winehouse and all her wackiness, but ignore any merit from an AI guy. Maybe that will change.... Besides, Taylor's already been Teen Angel. I don't see how doing it a bit longer on the road will make that much difference in terms on how he's perceived by the general public or the critics. Obviously, some of his fans aren't happy. ETA: I do think he's more than capable of making a solid album. But I confess the hyperbole turned me off for awhile. I really think his talent is performing and selling songs, rather than writing. Maybe he'll prove me wrong. MJ, I’ve noticed fans are the harshest critics sometimes. :) I really don’t see much chance of him being taken seriously, though. He’s perfect for AAA, but they don’t take AI types. They’ll put up with Amy Winehouse and all her wackiness, but ignore any merit from an AI guy. Maybe that will change….

Besides, Taylor’s already been Teen Angel. I don’t see how doing it a bit longer on the road will make that much difference in terms on how he’s perceived by the general public or the critics. Obviously, some of his fans aren’t happy.

ETA: I do think he’s more than capable of making a solid album. But I confess the hyperbole turned me off for awhile. I really think his talent is performing and selling songs, rather than writing. Maybe he’ll prove me wrong.

]]> By: mj http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150129 mj Wed, 17 Sep 2008 04:53:05 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150129 <blockquote>His shelf life for making money to be able to continue doing music is probably limited. I say give the guy a break! And Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not a real big fan of his! :)</blockquote> Well, it's a trade-off. Make the money while people still remember you or make the record while they still remember you. Perhaps finances are dictating this decision, but I agree with Beesims, I think lasting impressions and image are important. The longer he hams it up in musical theater, the less likely he'll be taken seriously once, or if he ever, settles down to make some serious music. We may not agree on this, but I do think he has it in him to make a solid, substantial record. As far as giving Taylor "a break"? Of course, he can do whatever he wants, and good luck to him. However, I may not be on board for everything, and I <em>reserve</em> the right to play armchair quarterback. :). Yep. Bad fan. ;).

His shelf life for making money to be able to continue doing music is probably limited. I say give the guy a break! And Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢m not a real big fan of his! :)

Well, it’s a trade-off. Make the money while people still remember you or make the record while they still remember you. Perhaps finances are dictating this decision, but I agree with Beesims, I think lasting impressions and image are important. The longer he hams it up in musical theater, the less likely he’ll be taken seriously once, or if he ever, settles down to make some serious music. We may not agree on this, but I do think he has it in him to make a solid, substantial record.

As far as giving Taylor “a break”? Of course, he can do whatever he wants, and good luck to him. However, I may not be on board for everything, and I reserve the right to play armchair quarterback. :) .

Yep. Bad fan. ;) .

]]> By: pj http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150121 pj Wed, 17 Sep 2008 03:35:32 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150121 I think Taylor is just being pragmatic. I don't blame him for going for the cash. It's not like he's old. He has lots of time to make serious music and do the clubs. Is it so bad that he wants to cash in while there's still someone willing to pay him? I have plenty of musician friends who take side gigs to pay the bills. There's no shame in that. I actually think it's a little presumptuous to assume that he's selling out because he's not going by some fan-prescribed script. He's never going to be a pop star. He can make a record whenever. His shelf life for making money to be able to continue doing music is probably limited. I say give the guy a break! And I'm not a real big fan of his! :) I think Taylor is just being pragmatic. I don’t blame him for going for the cash. It’s not like he’s old. He has lots of time to make serious music and do the clubs. Is it so bad that he wants to cash in while there’s still someone willing to pay him? I have plenty of musician friends who take side gigs to pay the bills. There’s no shame in that. I actually think it’s a little presumptuous to assume that he’s selling out because he’s not going by some fan-prescribed script. He’s never going to be a pop star. He can make a record whenever. His shelf life for making money to be able to continue doing music is probably limited. I say give the guy a break! And I’m not a real big fan of his! :)

]]> By: Grammie Kari http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150119 Grammie Kari Wed, 17 Sep 2008 03:21:35 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150119 There are reasons that Taylor is making these moves. I just hope he's getting some good advice. Who knows, maybe a stinit in musical theater may be a stepping stone to movies? I just want him to have a bigger role. I do wish him the very best and hope he will have time to do other things, even if it is a local gig. When Simon would tell someone they are Broadway and not a Pop Star, I would think, "So, what's wrong with that?" There are reasons that Taylor is making these moves. I just hope he’s getting some good advice. Who knows, maybe a stinit in musical theater may be a stepping stone to movies? I just want him to have a bigger role.

I do wish him the very best and hope he will have time to do other things, even if it is a local gig.

When Simon would tell someone they are Broadway and not a Pop Star, I would think, “So, what’s wrong with that?”

]]> By: mj http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150109 mj Wed, 17 Sep 2008 02:12:30 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150109 <blockquote> Also Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been reading and posting on this board for so long that I generally read just about every story (theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re addictive) regardless if they are in favor of one of my favorites or not.</blockquote> StevenD, you don't have to explain yourself. My blog is not a fansite. Posts devoted to a particular Idol are not designed as fan threads. Negative commentary on an Idol is as welcome as the positive. Thank you for contributing, please carry on.

Also Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been reading and posting on this board for so long that I generally read just about every story (theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re addictive) regardless if they are in favor of one of my favorites or not.

StevenD, you don’t have to explain yourself. My blog is not a fansite. Posts devoted to a particular Idol are not designed as fan threads. Negative commentary on an Idol is as welcome as the positive.

Thank you for contributing, please carry on.

]]> By: StevenD http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150100 StevenD Wed, 17 Sep 2008 01:16:54 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150100 Actually Crazymomelon I thought I was defending Taylor Hicks doing Grease. Also Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been reading and posting on this board for so long that I generally read just about every story (theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re addictive) regardless if they are in favor of one of my favorites or not. I personally donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see why heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s original there are many obviously who disagree with me. I feel like Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve seen his type of performance style before and I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t find anything unique or special about him as I feel like heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a lesser version of The Blues Brothers. I know there are many who disagree with me and there are many who agree. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s just one of those some like chocolate ice cream and some like vanilla. Actually Crazymomelon I thought I was defending Taylor Hicks doing Grease. Also Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve been reading and posting on this board for so long that I generally read just about every story (theyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢re addictive) regardless if they are in favor of one of my favorites or not. I personally donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t see why heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s original there are many obviously who disagree with me. I feel like Ià ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ve seen his type of performance style before and I donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t find anything unique or special about him as I feel like heà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s a lesser version of The Blues Brothers. I know there are many who disagree with me and there are many who agree. Ità ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢s just one of those some like chocolate ice cream and some like vanilla.

]]> By: Crazymomelon http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150098 Crazymomelon Wed, 17 Sep 2008 00:11:52 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150098 <blockquote>edited - everyone has a right to be here. Please donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t question postersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ motives.</blockquote> You are absolutely right, mj, and I do apologize! <em>edit: Apologizing and then rewording what you said is still going to get you edited. Please respect your fellow posters.</em>

edited – everyone has a right to be here. Please donà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢t question postersà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€ž ¢ motives.

You are absolutely right, mj, and I do apologize!

edit: Apologizing and then rewording what you said is still going to get you edited. Please respect your fellow posters.

]]> By: chewsday http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150088 chewsday Tue, 16 Sep 2008 23:10:41 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150088 Does Taylor know who he is as a musician? I think so. But is his self-esteem strong enough for him to go against the flow? Has it ever been? These are questions I've always asked myself. The more I've watched him and learned about his life these past few years, I really wonder. He struggled so hard for so long, and then came AI and all that it supposedly offered. But that led to the conundrum: Should he do his thing his way now that he had a much broader stage? Better yet, could he? I think he wanted to and even thought he could. But things didn't go as planned or as hoped, and he had to make some concessions. One concession led to another, and the ball may still be rolling. I don't think it has been by choice; I think it has become necessity. I don't for a moment believe that Taylor has sold out for the money. I think the money is a necessary means to an end. That musician we fell in love with - the raw, gritty, pre-AI soul and blues singer - is still there. I don't know what it will take to bring that performer back to the forefront, but I believe it will happen eventually. I see Taylor in a struggle not only for the means to finance new music and a new tour, but to reconnect with his soul. It's there; it's always been there. He will make the connection once again. Somehow. And I'll be waiting. (Rereading this post, I think I might just need a drink to help me get a grip. Anyone need a poor excuse for an armchair psychologist?) Does Taylor know who he is as a musician? I think so. But is his self-esteem strong enough for him to go against the flow? Has it ever been? These are questions I’ve always asked myself. The more I’ve watched him and learned about his life these past few years, I really wonder. He struggled so hard for so long, and then came AI and all that it supposedly offered. But that led to the conundrum: Should he do his thing his way now that he had a much broader stage? Better yet, could he? I think he wanted to and even thought he could. But things didn’t go as planned or as hoped, and he had to make some concessions. One concession led to another, and the ball may still be rolling. I don’t think it has been by choice; I think it has become necessity. I don’t for a moment believe that Taylor has sold out for the money. I think the money is a necessary means to an end.

That musician we fell in love with – the raw, gritty, pre-AI soul and blues singer – is still there. I don’t know what it will take to bring that performer back to the forefront, but I believe it will happen eventually. I see Taylor in a struggle not only for the means to finance new music and a new tour, but to reconnect with his soul. It’s there; it’s always been there. He will make the connection once again. Somehow. And I’ll be waiting.

(Rereading this post, I think I might just need a drink to help me get a grip. Anyone need a poor excuse for an armchair psychologist?)

]]> By: Crazymomelon http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150085 Crazymomelon Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:16:08 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150085 <blockquote>As someone who has never cared for him I have to ask how is he original?</blockquote> As someone who is a fan and follows his career, I have to ask, how is Taylor Hicks banal? <em>edited - everyone has a right to be here. Please don't question posters' motives.</em>

As someone who has never cared for him I have to ask how is he original?

As someone who is a fan and follows his career, I have to ask, how is Taylor Hicks banal?

edited – everyone has a right to be here. Please don’t question posters’ motives.

]]> By: jpfan http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150084 jpfan Tue, 16 Sep 2008 22:15:42 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150084 I remember Taylor from his audition and really liked the guy. Then he became a complete clown in my eyes and I couldn't stand him. He oozed phony and that's how I've seen him ever since. Of course, if I liked his singing more I probably wouldn't care. My expectations for Taylor's career are pretty low but I am impressed that he had such a big effect on his fans. He seems to have touched a deep chord in them. I remember Taylor from his audition and really liked the guy. Then he became a complete clown in my eyes and I couldn’t stand him. He oozed phony and that’s how I’ve seen him ever since. Of course, if I liked his singing more I probably wouldn’t care.

My expectations for Taylor’s career are pretty low but I am impressed that he had such a big effect on his fans. He seems to have touched a deep chord in them.

]]> By: Ladybug http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm/comment-page-3#comment-150081 Ladybug Tue, 16 Sep 2008 21:58:36 +0000 http://mjsbigblog.com/taylor-hicks-to-star-in-national-tour-of-grease.htm#comment-150081 Ol' Tay Tay can still bring the comments, can't he. I will inject here, because it has been referenced, that I started to worry about Taylor's career with those ubiquitous Ford ads. I cannot tell you the number of people, some of them fans of Taylor when he was on Idol, that hated those things and felt he was selling out. I am sure he was "required" to make those, but they did not enhance his reputation, in my view. I will say now, as I said a long time ago, I love the smooth-voiced guy who made that lovely recording "Under the Radar." I was energized by the charismatic stage performer he was with that awesome band he toured with post-Idol. I want that guy back, and it may happen, but I am afraid a real successful post-Idol career was run over by a Ford and slipped up by some Grease. (With maybe a dab of a not-so-great CD thrown into the mix.) Ol’ Tay Tay can still bring the comments, can’t he.

I will inject here, because it has been referenced, that I started to worry about Taylor’s career with those ubiquitous Ford ads. I cannot tell you the number of people, some of them fans of Taylor when he was on Idol, that hated those things and felt he was selling out. I am sure he was “required” to make those, but they did not enhance his reputation, in my view.

I will say now, as I said a long time ago, I love the smooth-voiced guy who made that lovely recording “Under the Radar.” I was energized by the charismatic stage performer he was with that awesome band he toured with post-Idol.

I want that guy back, and it may happen, but I am afraid a real successful post-Idol career was run over by a Ford and slipped up by some Grease. (With maybe a dab of a not-so-great CD thrown into the mix.)

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