No Cowell in Attendance at the Wal-mart Meeting

FAYETTEVILLE — One day you’re winning "American Idol," the next you’re at the Wal-Mart Shareholders Meeting. Welcome to the big time, Taylor Hicks. Hicks, the latest "American Idol" winner, was part of the musical makeup of the annual event, which was held at Bud Walton Arena on Friday.

Hicks sang two songs, including a rendition of the Doobie Brothers’ "Takin’ It to the Streets." The crowd voiced its approval. No Simon Cowells in this bunch. "I think Taylor Hicks did a fantastic job," Wal-Mart Vice Chairman Mike Duke said. Later in the morning, pop diva Beyonce put on a highvoltage performance. On Wednesday, associates were treated to an indoor concert by Carrie Underwood and Rascal Flatts. An outdoor concert Thursday night featuring Sugarland was called off because of bad weather. Later in the morning, to close the meeting, Beyonce sang a medley of Destiny’s Child songs and other songs. In the past, Wal-Mart has had artists such as Garth Brooks, Jon Bon Jovi, Brooks and Dunn, and Jimmy Buffet at its pre-meeting shareholders concerts and on the day of the Shareholders Meeting. A few years ago, Rogers native Joe Nichols sang the national anthem at the Shareholders Meeting. Nichols is now one of the hottest acts in country music.

Wooo! Groove on Soulman!