Taylor Hicks, Magic and Mind

I have always been fascinated with magic. Taylor Hicks, definitely a person that qualifies as possessing a certain magic, after all, he managed to convince an entire nation of viewers to telephone into the Fox reality show, American Idol and cast more votes than we as a country cast to elect our President. (I have thoughts on that topic, and politics in general, but we'll tab that for another blog.)
Taylor Hicks performing "Wherever I Lay My Hat" video (itily224)


There are so many forms magic can take, be thought of and looked at be it within fictional content, real-world connotations, as well as the type of magic your children might read about in fairy tales. Magic is often used, too, as an euphemism to describe qualities that certain artists deliver to their fans.

Magic can be evidenced in a type of spark that certain really gifted salesmen possess, you know the type, they can sell anyone anything. Smooth and slick and ever convincing. I know there are folks out there that possess a very real knack, a type of Magic in their ability to communicate and transform thoughts into prose, to send messages through media in such a manner as to make projected mental visions into reality. It's a gift.

I took up a story once investigating a man in my area that works at one of those hypnosis centers. I visited a few centers to check out technique to formulate comparisons, to educate myself on how such places operate and what a potential customer would encounter. I met with several professed hypnotists and walked out unimpressed. My last encounter changed my perceptions on this art form and the possibility that some folks actually can work that form of magic.

I filled out paperwork, then was ushered into the guy's office. The office was lined with book shelves about hypnosis, about herbal cures and remedies, some books bordering on occult practices. The 'doctor' came in and introduced himself to me, and we sat with me across the dark wood desk from him, like you'd experience in any situation meeting with a medical doctor.

He was dressed much like myself, black head to toe. I wear black almost constantly, it's one of my idiosyncrasies. I could tell, as he began his spiel, he was checking me out, rather like a salesman might. Dr. 'Hypnosis' was gaging my reactions to his most likely perfunctory speech routinely provided prospects. I respectfully nodded at the appropriate times, but as he was wrapping up the speech, I think he noticed I was not really captured into the moment. Dr.'Hypnosis' paused, placed his hands on his desk, leaned forward ever so slightly and made eye contact with me. That's when I felt something different than I had experienced at any of the other hypnosis places I had previously visited. I felt it. The strangest sensation.

I have this 'thing' I do when I meet someone, I like to make eye contact. You can tell a great deal about an individual with just that, the moment you watch their pupils, check out their irises and the movement within that happens when they look into your eyes. It's revealing. Looking into Dr. H's dark eyes, I had the sensation of velvet, a spherical image, a mental image of a cool, hard, shiny surface, colored in blacks, blues and purples. An incredible sensation bordering on euphoria hit me, touched with excitement, with an entire wellness vibe like I had just been out for a long run on a cool and crisp day.

It happened only over a matter of seconds, and then we broke eye contact; the sensation persisted. The feeling remained strong with me for about three days - even now when I think of that moment I remember the sensation. I came away from this experience with a different conception and view of hypnotists in general, an innate feeling that there is magic in that format, it can be real and palpable.

Musicians are in a way like salespeople, and I've read comparisons to fans saying they felt "hypnotized" by an artist. Musicians have to work at selling themselves, their craft and their chosen form of communication to be heard, to achieve success. Taylor Hicks was a brilliant contestant on American Idol due to his ability to tap that gift, give up himself through his music and enter the audiences' minds, bestowing that glowing general feeling of contentment, excitement, goodwill. I have read countless reports from Taylor Hicks concert attendees that say the same things, effuse how wonderful they feel after seeing Taylor live. Taylor Hicks even admits his style of communication musically is not on pressed plastic, he loves to perform live.

Working the Voodoo: GODSMACK "Voodoo" (video by Moss8484)


An entertaining form of magic:
Mirror Magic: (video by kuhris)

Idol Blues Sailing the Ship of Fools

Ship of Fools
New tides surprise - my world it's changing
Within this frame an ocean swells - behind this smile I know it well

Crazy on a ship of fools
Liar's Dance
Far four winds blow
There's trouble and it won't go
I'd really like to help you but you know
Truth twist - liars dance
Money, money - greed, chance
Let's take a little more before we go
Cause we won't be back again

Let's take a little more before we go
Cause we won't be back again.

No we won't be back again

Great tunes.

Denial, Crossfire and is Taylor Going to Japan?

Taylor Hicks news not easy to come by these days so it's been left up to the fans to ferret out any and everything pertaining to the man: Truth or Fiction.

I'm just going to kick back and remember when I first heard "Wall of Denial".

and this tune appropriate
"Crossfire" (caught in)

Talking with on-line friends last night in a private chat, there was mention that Taylor Hicks may be headed for Japan.
Tom Waits, "Big in Japan"

Some images in this freaky video strangely tie into recent metaphoric expositions penned in the Hicks' anomalous fan world. Fitting bit of irreverence for the random times at hand.
Girls just gotta have fun.

Taylor Hicks, The Truth, The Lies, The Insanity - Oh And the Taking IT All Too Seriously

The Taylor Hicks's Chicks, Chill and her five, sometimes six posters with the Caroline Lyders' Fan Club including the insane straight jacket "I wanna be MFOYA" individual, make this just way too easy.

Taylor Hicks, man God love him, I am sure never foresaw anything of this magnitude coming down the road back in New Orleans. Once again it seems the gals were clucking away today on the Caroline Lyder's Fan Club about the on-line presence known as MFOYA, and of course my name got brought up. Man, like grain tossed in a hen pen.
MFOYA and myself (I'm Scully):

Now play this as you read:

As I finished reading through the recent postings at the Caroline Lyder's Fan Club, and am laughing so hard it's hard to type, I marvel at the tenacity of the fiery regulars that post there. They are certainly a busy and curious group: the post I have just read is titled Suspension of Disbelief" and utilizes one of my favorite (gosh, how sweet, how did they know?) television shows of all time --- "The X-Files". Man that was a great show. Too bad the Taylor Hicks Chicks had to go ruin the moment with highjacking Mulder to attempt to make a point.

I am now being labeled as MFOYA's BFF or 'moll'. Sweet, I'm someone's BFF. Seen that acronym, never used it. Too, I'm a "mobster" for goofing on the really ridiculous nature of this situation with the inbred mentality tallying up at the CL Fan Club. Man, much of what I write is completely with laughter coming forth, I'm a giant goofus, and the last to take much of this very seriously; including kicking anyone's ass - regarding Taylor Hicks and this Caroline Lyders situation, but sadly this site takes takes every printed word with utmost seriousness regarding intent.

Now, as I stop chuckling for a moment; the laughter not detracting from my love and adoration for MFOYA because I'll be MFOYA's Scully BFF and moll any day rather than one of the pecking chickies at CL Fan Club. It is amusing that this MFOYA is so completely consuming and ultimately fascinating to the loyal few hanging with the Chill-ster.

True, I have allowed myself to be a target by my supporting MFOYA, not because I completely agree on all points, rather I admire MFOYA's complete balls out bravery in the face of the scrutiny challenging their assertions regarding this apparently ultimately fascinating and the most serious of issues and topics in the world of Taylor Hicks. Too, perhaps it's envy on the Chickies part, perhaps its a chemical imbalance shared among the five of them - I have no idea, I just keep scattering the grain. Here chickies, chickies, chickies... Man I love to feed the chickies.

I guess Tony Soprano bettah move ovah.


Taylor - man, I have no words, I am just laughing. At least they are talking about you, man.

As in 'You are...'

"Welcome to Whereever You Are"

Awww...
"Have a Nice Day"

Chris Daughtry, "Sunday Bloody Sunday" Bloody Good

I've not been a Chris Daughtry enthusiast, never could put my finger on the reasons for that because I love rock music. His "Going Home" song getting tons of radio exposure doesn't capture my attention, I find it boring.

In this case, possibly it's the U2 song he performs that attracted my interest. I have worshipped loved Bono U2 since I found them in the '80's. I admit watching Chris increased my appreciation for the fact he can sing. The drummer in the band is really good, check out the boys as they rock out this tune on Yahoo Music "Sunday Bloody Sunday". Scroll down to the video link on the site and hit it.
U2 "Sunday Bloody Sunday"


U2, Bono are passion in action in their promotions, efforts to pass the awareness hat concerning Aids, Third World debt relief and the issues plaguing Africa; Humanitarian Efforts.

Thanksgiving Cheers

Artwork from a small child as a holiday peace offering.

Here's hoping everyone today, hanging with the Taylor Hicks chicks, including those over at Chill's Place (image pictured) have a Happy Thanksgiving.


It's really been all in fun gals.

Taylor Hicks' News: MFOYA Goes Nationwide

MFOYA Goes Wide. Nationwide. The Taylor Hicks 'alternate' news blog, and site of controversy is rumored to soon be enveloped with national exposure and attention.


The on-line presence known as MFOYA has shown some mad skills in creating controversy and uproar within the fan world of Taylor Hicks. Uproar stemming from their bulldogged coverage of a few photos that hit the Splash news site some time ago and the identity theories of the woman or women in question. Regarding the truth behind the theories, that has yet to be proven, yet surely this persona knows how to garner the attention.

Conversely while discussions on the site have had at the focus, the reality behind a romance that Taylor Hicks has been involved with this site has also, in part created some interest and exposure for Hicks. That adage, any publicity is good publicity surely proven in this situation, but unfortunately strife and division may be being knifed through the group of avid Taylor Hicks enthusiasts. I have witnessed this and felt the stings first hand by my association with this individual.

Personally, I don't understand the circumstance or the why or rationale regarding the doppleganger bait and switch story swirling around the blondes involved within this story. Perhaps the only one who could clarify this situation would be Taylor or his spokes person, who ever that may be. The main consensus being that MFOYA whose identity is being held in confidence, seems to have hit a a big nerve and holds a rather intriguing storyline. I've been impressed with the intelligence and savvy of this individual.

"Break on Through"

Putting that in my pipe...to smoke it.

Lions and Tigers and Bears, OY VEY!

The silly little hens proving MFOYA correct one little peck at a time.

....to be continued.
Rock on:

(Let's) "Talk"

Coldplay Lyrics

Crazy Little Things Called Fans

I had no idea that becoming interested in Taylor Hicks, could lead to such drama, borderline insanity and absurdity. As background, it was the fifth season of the reality show, American Idol and a soft-spoken shy appearing, attractive gray-haired man was introduced to we, the viewers. Taylor Hicks certainly was the Unlikely Idol; I being the sucker I am for the underdog, had to research what I could on the guy. I mean, with Taylor's older appearance, gray hair, his style of dress, he looked more like one of the other contestant's Dads, but man, I liked his singing, his selection of songs. Taylor Hicks presented a refreshing change from the Pop Tart norm featured on the show. I decided to chronicle what happened week to week with him and see what might develop.

It's crazy, what's happening now,in a small sector of the Taylor Hicks' internet fan world.
Crazy

At the present, there has arisen a conflict between two fan sites, The Caroline Lyders Fan Club, and a site known as MFOYA. The battle reminding me somewhat of activities seen at recent basketball games and on soccer fields - the publicized fights and brawls; difference in the fan world of the web where great physical distance can occur the fighting is most usually limited to the written word.

The chief reason behind the controversy and the now becoming messy cyber fan war is MFOYA's questioning of some photographs taken of Taylor Hicks and one of his love interests. A new twist to this situation, denizens of the Caroline Lyders Fan Club are venturing out and targeting the folks who post and frequent MFOYA. It's pitiable almost, the level of fanaticism being witnessed by the members of this on-line group. I feel for the lady whose name appears in their title, sullied by the chicanery parlayed by this site's members. If I were she, my attorneys would be talking to the site's owners. You see, there are no conversations praising Ms. Lyders, this site is not about her. This site's only focus aimed at the on-line persona and presence who goes by the name, MFOYA - and now anyone who visits that site. On the Caroline Lyders Fan Club, MFOYA is referenced often as simply 'ass', but the true asses are those individulas perpetuating this farce, the constituents of this inappropriately named website.

In seeking to find the definition of 'fan' I turned to the on-line dictionery:

fa·nat·ic (fə-năt'ĭk) pronunciation n.- A person marked or motivated by an extreme, unreasoning enthusiasm, as for a cause. An obsessive enthusiasm for a pastime or hobby. The level of involvement or interest one has in the liking of a particular person, group, trend, artwork or idea. See also enthusiasm. Intense enjoyment, interest or approval. adj. Fanatical.

Fanaticism has been described as an "excessive intolerance of opposing views."
I think fanaticism, actually, is the new language of social capital. If you speak the language of the fanatics, you’re given entry into their sort of secret society. In this case, this ridiculous cyber war involving Taylor Hicks, the only acceptable language toward Taylor is blind acceptance; if you think outside that box you are open for harassment. This conflict doesn't even involve whether you are a fan of his or not, it concerns discussing topics a certain group considers Taboo.

Back to school; the basics of the word itself. Interestingly 'fanatic' made its English language debut in the first half of the 16th c. and meant an insane person. Derived from the Latin fanum, meaning temple, and is a reference to the sometimes over-the-top orgiastic rites practiced in pagan Rome. Its sense of extreme zealousness first appeared in the mid-17th c. Reading further about the term, the Latin root fanum is also related to the Latin festus which gives us our words feast and festival. (Not to be confused with Jerry Seinfeld's "Festivus.")

Here's a phrase I found relevant, "If you pick a truth and follow it blindly. It becomes a falsehood, and you a fanatic." — Unknown.

This is where I first heard his music: WBHM

Stormy Monday, Who Will Save Your Soul?

Some music for Monday:
"Stormy Monday"


"Who Will Save Your Soul?" (hit for lyrics)

Taylor Hicks Has a New Nazi Sheriff in Town

Taylor Hicks must be proud to know there exists this little wordpress site currently operating with the monniker Caroline Lyders Fan Club. A rather misleading name since their sole (not soul) purpose in life and living is to target with a fierceness not seen since Nazi Germany versus the Jewish populace, the persons and inhabitants of the MFOYA fan site. Regarding Caroline Lyders Fan Club, not much really goes on concerning Miss Lyders.

It seems the rule of the wacky "websters" is to uphold conformity to the degree and extent that common sense and curiosity are not allowed. Deviating from their degree of reality lands the perceived violator relentlessly verbally and senselessly berated. As in Nazi land, too, variance of ideas, actions and thoughts are not allowed in the world of this little cyber camp. We must all march to the same drummer or face the wrath of their very own "Oz".

I mean, suspend logic and reason and let's not forget reading ability, because these have not one iota of meaning in this site. Participants seem to thrive only to spew hate and malice. They targeted me as the Cowardly Lion in their simple analogy of The Wizard of Oz. I then find in their brave example they have since removed that little descriptor. Yes, who is the Cowardly Lion now?
"Jeremy" Pearl Jam

"Clearly I remember pickin on the boy
Seemed a harmless little fuck
Ooh, but we unleashed a lion

You people in New York and other states don't understand - you don't call a Texan a Coward unless it is True. This site crossed that line. In my case, I may have tons of faults, but Coward, not one of them. I'm normally a peaceable individual unless you cross that line; that line has been obliterated. Got it?

This circumstance a testament to the degrading despair running rampant within the Taylor Hicks fan base. This particular site is nothing more than a bloody sad little humorless nasty and ignorant little spot on the cybermap with Goal One to say they are there for Hicks, yet do nothing but run the reputation and solidarity down. Soul Patrol? I doubt it, more like Sole Asshole Patrol.

So much for the holiday season - if you're in the mood to spread some Christmas Cheer and Thankful feelings for the season stop by and give The Caroline Lyders Fan Club a shout out for all the Love, Respect and Gracious Example they show the world.

Chill, really, you are a saint. Go pluck that Angel from the mall Angel tree and think of me.

I may be a lot of things negative but I am never Cowardly. Ever. I'll kick your sorry ass for saying so. Heads up chica. SIEG HEIL.

Soup NAZI

"Sing for the Moment"

I am not sure what my fascination with Marshall Mathers is, but sometimes I gotta have me some Eminem.

I think it's his fucking brilliant attitude.
It's all political, if my music is literal and i'm a criminal,
How the fuck can i raise a little girl?
I couldn't. i wouldn't be fit to
You're full of shit too, Guerrera, that was a fist that hit you!
Complete lyrics: "Sing for the Moment"
I can't explain it, I just have to run with it sometimes.
"I Alone"
...and I love this man:

...but this is to You-Know-Who:
it's easier not to be wise
and measure these things by your brains
I sank into Eden with you
alone in the church by and by
I'll read to you here, save your eyes
you'll need them, your boat is at sea
your anchor is up, you've been swept away
and the greatest of teachers won't hesitate
to leave you there, by yourself, chained to fate

Taylor Hicks, Charity, Heart and Soul

Taylor Hicks' influence on his fans can be seen in many small but important ways. The holiday season is approaching, the time folks start reflecting on the process of giving, doing for others, charity. A little blogspot came to my alert box this morning, Taylor Hicks My Idol. The writer of the blog, "Bloom", has been a huge supporter of Taylor Hicks. I've seen her smiling face on more than one board. If memory serves me, she was one of the Gray Charles inhabitants.

Bloom establishes Taylor Hicks' charitable state of mind in his support of Kid One and Studio by the Tracks, both organizations incredible for their purpose and heart. Bloom shares how Taylor Hicks is expanding his charity interests by lending his name and support to Bid 2 Beat Aids. This function is going to be held on ebay, beginning December 1.

In Bloom's blogspot, contributor, KarinP provided an emotional, well spoken post. Included, among her thoughts, "Have you ever been in a store during the Christmas Season and seen one of those trees with children's names on various tags? I remember the first time I actually did something about that. My daughters were with me and while I did not really have the extra money to spare at the time, I felt the need to take 3 tags off of one of those trees. We headed to the Toy Department and bought three toys and donated them to the children. For us, no amount of money could have bought us the joy we felt when we handed the toys and the tags in."

It is incredible the feeling that comes from doing something straight from your heart, from your soul because it feels right. I volunteer for various causes, contribute in a variety of ways to events that benefit children, especially. You give of yourself and you receive, children the most deserving of any recipients.

My home is a very private refuge, yet I took in an acquaintance once, a single parent having a difficult time. Her child showing all the ravages of the difficulties. I'll call her Leslie. She was just a little kid but already sullen, withdrawn. She could be downright mean to other children, even my own, but I recognized in her something special; besides her mother was a mess.

Taking them in took a toll on my household. My acquaintance wound up making a play for my man, to his credit, she proved unsuccessful. She worked my finances, unable to keep a job. Her daughter, wound up staying with us for over six months. During that time period the kid became a reader; hadn't enjoyed books previously. She impressed her teacher with the improvements in her attitude, her work. The best part, I assisted her Grandmother in taking custody and providing that long-term stability. Her grandparents were quite well-off just estranged by their relationship with their daughter. Leslie has since sought me out, she's grown, and she's beautiful, happy. She had told her Grandmother it was important to find me, she wanted to tell me how much she thought of me, what it meant staying with us. It took a little doing, but they found me and I'm glad they did.

Giving of yourself to benefit others is like that story about the Starfish:

Once a man was walking along a beach. The sun was shining and it was a beautiful day. Off in the distance he could see a person going back and forth between the surf's edge and and the beach. Back and forth this person went. As the man approached he could see that there were hundreds of starfish stranded on the sand as the result of the natural action of the tide.

The man was stuck by the the apparent futility of the task. There were far too many starfish. Many of them were sure to perish. As he approached the person continued the task of picking up starfish one by one and throwing them into the surf.

As he came up to the person he said, "You must be crazy. There are thousands of miles of beach covered with starfish. You can't possibly make a difference." The person looked at the man. He then stooped down and pick up one more starfish and threw it back into the ocean. He turned back to the man and said, "It sure made a difference to that one!"

To knock on a lighter door of thought, stories of "How the Grinch Stole Christmas", or "A Christmas Carol", find their mass appeal lying within that storyline of the subject finding redemption from or by an event that uplifts them, creates that turnaround from bad to good. Why the focus on this theme in stories circumventing the Holiday season? Because in many religions, many cultures, this time of year a season of renewal, of change, of hope and heart, of soul.

Returning to the topic in Bloom's blogspot and the posting placed by KarinP, reading it brought to mind my conversations that I enjoyed last night with a few on-line friends in a chatroom. We too had touched on the subject of how Taylor Hicks has impacted many lives in a positive, uplifting way. That said, fan focus should not be on just adoring the man for the good he's done, instead do as KarinP, take action. Pluck that Angel off the mall Angel trees. Donate canned goods, volunteer someplace, assist others less fortunate. No matter your condition, there are others worse off. Use the example Taylor Hicks displays in his charitable promotions to act yourself. Don't stop with simply adulating the man. I'm sure Mr. Hicks would appreciate that much more.

I'll step down from my soapbox now. Bloom's blogspot for anyone not familiar is Taylor Hicks My Idol.

Yeah, This is. To You.

Convolution

I wonder if Taylor Hicks ever listened to Thin Lizzy? Classified as a metal band the songs they wrote carried more than a handful of soul. This tune would work well redone, addition of some harmonica, add to the vibe.
"Don't Believe a Word"
Don't believe me if I tell you
Not a word of this is true

Rosalie lyrics
I could imagine Taylor performing this tune as well. Bob Seger wrote it but Phil and Thin Lizzy made it better.

Casablanca 1982


In the event you have no idea who Phil Lynott was:

Gorgeous man, intelligent and a bloody good song writer. Gra Go Deo Lynott.
Thin Lizzy, wiki info.

Stevie Ray Vaughn

Woke up this morning with a Stevie Ray Vaughn tune running through my head.

I had met him many years ago at a bar in the party part of town along a stretch known in Dallas as Lower Greenville. I was hanging out at one of my favorite spots, The Greenville Avenue Bar and Grill with some pals who attended SMU. I had ventured up to the bar for a refill, edged up near this guy holding court at the far end. He wasn't all that good looking, but had something - he was different. It didn't hurt that he was wearing a cool flat-brimmed fedora type hat, and had the best spot near the bartender.

I had no idea who he was, I was just a kid. The guy saw me struggling to get through and told some of his pals to step aside. I went over, thanked him, and he asked what was I drinking, he then took my hat off my hair, replacing it with his own.

Back then I never went out without a beret or a newsboy, I was heavily influenced by the likes of Rickie Lee Jones; wanted to be Rickie Lee Jones, "Chuck E's in Love" and all that. It didn't hurt that folks often commented that I looked like her.

He bought me a drink, and that saying - if I'd known then what I know now - comes to mind every time I think of that night. One of his friends looked me over and said, "Do you have any idea who this is?" The guy smiled and held out his hand, he had the hardest finger tips I had ever felt, he said, "Darlin, I'm Stevie. Stevie Ray Vaughn".

Interview:

Rickie Lee Jones, "Flying Cowboys"

Taylor Takes to the Links, Does He Use TaylorMade Products?

There is a picture of Taylor Hicks hanging with Jason Scheff (Chicago). This, the biggest news circulating in the world of Taylor Hicks this week. Seems Taylor Hicks was entertaining and smacking the balls at the Golf Digest's 2007 Celebrity Invitational, held Nov. 11th at the Cabana Club in Los Angeles. Also hanging at the Invitational keeping the Soulman company, Paul Barrere and Kenny Gradney (of Little Feat), Tony Braunagel, Fergie Frederickson (Toto).

Great function for Taylor to attend, good company to mingle and hit a few Top Flite's or with Taylor's appreciation for Auburn and War Eagles, perhaps War Bird's down the links. Photos issued of Mr. Hicks can be viewed right HERE.

Communication, the love and the regret and the life

Did I disappoint you?
U2 "One"

"With or Without You"
This is his song. The man who always told me, "you give yourself away". My soulmate and I miss him. I always will; he understood me.

Yet, I lived.
This is where he used to take me:
"Where the Streets Have No Name"

To close, and as an aside to he whom I am speaking to tonight:
"I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For"

Taylor Hicks, "Here Comes The Sun"

Taylor Hicks video "Here Comes the Sun"

"Don't Let Me Down" video/itily224:

Nice groove instilled on a great classic.

Looking forward to his self-titled, "Cost Effective Tour".

I Believe in Love

Don't believe in Devils, believe in truth:


"Bizarre Love Triangle"

The King has Returned

I'm glad MFOYA has resurfaced - that inspired me to chase another "King":

You can keep following this event through youtube.
To listen to all that came out of the event in entirety, check out "Tiger Man" one of Elvis Presley's greatest albums. It is my favorite.

"Dream"

How can these obviously repressed people just sit there and politely applaud? One thing I can say, I'm sad I was just a small girl when he was performing. If you like this type of Elvis,you will love "Tiger Man". This is Tiger Man.

"Liar, It Takes One to Know One" and "Rise from the Ashes"

Taylor Hicks, no, not Taylor Hicks videos this morning. Instead I am utilizing an alternative communication tool - not words, instead music videos. Now, come on what I am talking about?

In the mean time, broaden your horizons and check these talented guys out:
"Taking Back Sunday"
Tune, "Liar (It Takes One to Know One)" (This is a very cool video.)
Watch it here:LIAR

Cool Emo flavored, Quietdrive, "Rise from the Ashes"



Quietdrive is a little band from Minneapolis, MN a city that has seen artists such as the Replacements, Prince, Husker Du, Soul Asylum, and Atmosphere emerge. They have a new album out, produced by Epic Records, "When All That's Left Is You". You can hear more sampling of the CD on their myspace site. Described as, "a fast paced record of sumptuous pop hooks, raw rock thrills and beautifully warm, open-hearted melodies about faith, hope and love. Against a musical backdrop that draws as much from Elton John and Nirvana as from Zeppelin and Matthew Sweet, Quietdrive tackles politics of the heart, sifting through the wreckage of old relationships and holding out hope for the one that got away."

The singer doesn't possess the best vocals, but as a whole unit the band works. I like their sound. The boys have a couple of really promising tunes, with "Rise from the Ashes" my favorite.

"Hell Hath No Fury" ...

"Hell Hath No Fury"


He's a cross between Buddy Holly and Elvis Costello. His name is Tom Allalone. He's interviewed by a group called Room Thirteen. You can hear more of his tunes on Tom's Myspace.
In the event anyone needs a refresher on Elvis Costello:
"Watching the Detectives"

....and this one's for henry8 - what you asked for:

Taylor Hicks: MFOYA, a tale of Angels, Pirates and Heroes

In Dedication to the Taylor Hicks' "Dark Angel" site. Not to be confused with the "Taylor's Angels" site.

(lyrics from Shinedowns' "Fly from the Inside".)
I am focused on what I am after
The key to the next open chapter
Cause I found a way to steal the Sun from the sky
Long live that day that I decided to fly from the inside.


(OK, perhaps that was a bit melodramatic.)

I love Pirates Johnny Depp certainly the vibe of the site had a certain slash and swords buccaneer feel. arrggh.


But I'll close with this today: "Heroes" They come in many forms.

Judging a Book by the Cover: Is the Sky Falling?

As I continue along my trail sniffing out the news that grooves the Soul Patrol and Taylor Hicks' fans blogs I rechecked some of the sites I viewed the other day and found my little blog a subject of conversation at The Caroline Lyders Fan Club. Poster, 'henry8' in attempting to bring up the idea and discuss the concept of what I tried to communicate on my Sunday Soul Sermon, brought up my blogspot.(thank you kind person).

'henry8' obviously understood my thoughts on the condition of the whole fan base division. Sadly, poster 'Jeanni', who immediately brought up the fact that I post on MFOYA had no clue what 'henry8' was trying to say, nor did she want to hear. Humorously a small inquisition set in with 'henry8' seemingly scrutinized like some sort of Russian spy, prompting 'henry8''s reply,

I’m everywhere? Where else am I?
What on earth are you talking about. I never said anyone was making fun of Taylor. And I didn’t know for sure that the author of the blog I mentioned posted at MFOYA. I just saw the blog in google alerts and thought it was good. I am sorry I mentioned it now. She didn’t say anyone was making fun of Taylor either. What I said was that Taylors fans behaving like idiots can possibly IMO make people laugh at him .

One thing I found funny, that poster, 'Jeanni', is a gal who of late has been heralding her massive, mad investigative talents; yet she didn't take a moment to read the link before she spoke. Rather, she lashed out at visiting guest 'henry8' and tied my blog in with MFOYA. Perhaps I'm being cruel, but I do think folks like this quite possibly the inspiration behind the children's tale, "Chicken Little".

Being a fan in my world doesn't mean sitting there like a Henny Penny following the hapless nut-smacked Chicken Little to the Fox's lair. Perhaps my being a Libra, plus having studied law in college, created within me the need to look what's going on around me, and question that which might smack me in the head. I will make no bones about it, I enjoy the MFOYA site, but do I believe anything and everything I read there - or for that matter anywhere? No, that would mean becoming Henny Penny.

Playing Devil's Advocate, I don't understand the bad rap being hung around MFOYA's neck. I visit a large number of Hicks' sites, and consistently read MFOYA referred as "That Hate Site". I don't see 'hate'. I see snark sometimes, speculation often, debates always, and sometimes crazily marked up photos, but I have never read MFOYA cop anything negative about the man regarding his talent. Granted perhaps MFOYA has taken the whole topic of "the woman in the pictures", identity question a bit to the left but that's their call, it's their site. I find it far more damning for fans to sit and fight with each other and name call over issues that none truly know completely. It's one thing to debate issues but to take it internally to the point you direct attacks at others by your disagreements over a singer/actor/public figure, whom you really don't know, well, that's just... nuts. Remember,
we can never be too sure who really is Foxy-woxy.

Amy Winehouse Does MTV Just Like Britney Does VMA

Amy Winehouse and Britney Spears, more in common than I initially thought.

What language is this? (New name: Alien Winehouse.) If you listen closely you can eventually determine what song this is suppose to be hint. Amy should have tried the Britney tactic and lipsync'd.
(Found this video through blogcritics.org)


Hard to pick the worst one.

Amy some time back:

Britney when she had sponsors:

Sunny's Sunday Soul Sermon

I've been watching the 'factioning' of the Fandom in the Land of Taylor Hicks over the course of the past several months. I guess being a Sunday, I'm in the mood to sermonize somewhat over my observations in my travels around the Idol scene, in particular the Taylor Hicks' scene.

I've followed Taylor Hicks since his famous initial audition on American Idol, Season 5. I was one of the many addicted viewers who were treated to this man's unique and star-making moment when he entered the Pop Culture media.

Taylor's footage includes a segment in which he hammed it up - footage normally included by the producers for those contestants that they initially think will be a draw but not a long term contender. It also contains the footage of an unlikely contestant who wound up making some reality television history. His Sam Cooke's rendition of "A Change is Gonna Come" a portent to the season's unforeseen outcome.

Taylor proved the producers and the moguls behind the show wrong week after week, becoming the Underdog who became the Runaway Train. Curve balls were hurled in his direction by the show a few times; his song selections canceled last minute, the judging panel, especially Simon Cowell verbally attempting to sway public opinion. At time I thought perhaps Randy and Paula were not clued in on the machinations behing the scenes as they provided Hicks with praise that Cowell would deride, and slam down in his dry, authoritative British manner. Each week the man's campaign to win the title ensued more aggressively. Aided by a group of familiars who posted his past music here and there on line for viewers to find and listen to - Taylor carried on a good fight. Performances like this one - a favorite of mine and a song I campaigned for on the A.I. Boards for him to perform:
"In the Ghetto"
(courtesy of Keebob...)
Ironically that may sum up the direction the Taylor Hicks fanbase may be headed. So-called "Soul Patrol" sites and their forums may need to heed a lesson in the meaning of "soul" in their treatment of one another on the boards. I stopped going to any of them out of disgust at the number of personal attacks certain members of each group felt they were entitled to delve out to others on the boards who possessed differing opinions than their own. I'm frequenting a few websites currently that don't have forums but am beginning to see some similar infighting popping up within those as well. Recently one poster who contributed interesting commentaries was verbally slaughtered by the others writing on the board. This site recently provided this 'tribute' to this victim, "Secret Stare". Apparently she has experienced some sort of encounter of the eye-ball variety or more perhaps with Taylor Hicks and the other commenting parties took umbrage jeolousy attacking her and her previous claims. I mean please, so she takes with her a memory of the man and talks about it - no need to hang the gal on the cross over it. I say get a grip folks. I've had a few close encounters of the celebrity kind myself, but through time and trial and error have learned to keep my mouth for the most part shut.

Currently there are a few Taylor Hicks' website news-makers that are offering opinions on the personal life of Mr.Hicks. Their opinions spawned opposing viewpoints on other sites. Being a celebrity, this sort of thing can be expected from fans to a degree.

In no way comparing poster child for Why-We-Need-more-Education, Britney Spears, to Taylor Hicks or his situation, but rather utilizing her notoriety as she hangs on the Cross of Example of how not to live life large. ( One note, as I briefly wander into the Hell that is Ms. Spears foibles, regarding shaving her head, the best thing she could have done is wear that melt-down-do proud and loud and let her sheared head speak for itself. She may have been on the right track in shaving it if only she'd had the balls to carry it off. It would make a powerful statement and be a much better look than the fugly weaves she sports. That's another sermon I'll be back on sometime.) Hicks need heed the example of walking the talk and treading the truthful line in his career and his personal life. Like poor Spears his world is an open book now for the media and we folks at home to dissect and review and judge.

The internet is a great place we can voice our thoughts and opinions as we see fit. Like my Momma use to tell me as a child, 'if you can dish it out be ready to take it in turn'. Sadly with the turn of events happening in our national government, our schools, our corporate structures, personal freedom and individual expression is becoming a negative thing. Conformity the new norm and goal. I volunteer at my youngest child's school and I see examples of this on a daily basis. I volunteered at my eldest child's schools as well and the times have changed much in the 12 year difference between these two, but I digress again.

On the topic of 'soul', the Soul Patrol, and Taylor Hicks, there is most likely no solution that the fans themselves can hammer out. There are way too many differences among the folks who grew to admire the man on Idol. Differences that span color, ethnicity, education, religion, geography, and individual financial status. Most likely the best solution would come from the man behind it all and the subject of it all, Taylor Hicks. I'm not sure who or what organization is providing Mr. Hicks guidance and direction in his career, remember I'm on a soap-box this morning, but I'd tell the man to speak out on the major controversies ensuing chaos currently. Don't send friends to blog for you or fight for you, man, do it personally or your erstwhile career will end up on the "15-Minute of Fame" pages.

I hope that Taylor Hicks is able to make the strides he needs to try to unite his fans. Greats like Jimmy Buffet tend to nurture their fans and Hicks has said he'd like to 'parrot' Jimmy's career... It seems the Soul Patrol and other Taylor Hicks fans who don't embrace that title, may need some Soulman nurture time. As Taylor sang in his audition, "A Change is Gonna Come", a change needs to come within the fans of the man, perhaps by the man, the focus of these groups.

In this AOL Video, Taylor sings "The Fall", he talks about not running and hiding, great philosophy. This is my favorite tune of his and this a beautiful rendition:

Listen to your words, Brother, you have the answer.

Groove on Soulman.