American Idol: Taylor Hicks’ Fans Upset By Song Changing Controversy

« Real World Key West Recap: Hurricane Tyler! | Home | Py Family On Extreme Makeover Home Edition »

American Idol: Taylor Hicks’ Fans Upset By Song Changing Controversy

April 29, 2006 12:11:35 by Joe Blackmon

On the last American Idol results show, Ryan Seacrest said that Fox received lots of phone calls about the judges with viewers complaining that Simon Cowell was a bit unfair, and Simon Cowell and Randy Jackson both offered up an apology for their critical remarks about Katharine McPhee. However, several Reality TV Magazine readers have written in to express that there was another apology that should have been given. Taylor Hicks’ fans are outraged over a song-changing controversy that they perceive to be unfair treatment toward their favorite singer.

A Reality TV Magazine reader named JJ wrote in to tell us “Maybe AI doesn’t want Taylor to win?? I don’t know, but what happened to Taylor Hicks this week is disheartening. I’m surprised he hasn’t walked off that show yet. He deserved an apology from the judges.” Another Reality TV Magazine reader named Christine wrote us with the following comments, “I’ve been trying to start a letter writing campaign to Ryan and American Idol, asking them to address the fairness issues. I think most of the contestants are not treated fairly and it’s not just because of handpicking the most marketable individuals. It’s also about drama and ratings. It’s very disturbing to think about what these performers have to endure each week and I’m sure it’s worse than what we’ve been seeing (including especially, last minute song-changes that lead to less preparation time).”

What these readers are referring to is information revealed in a radio interview by American Idol producer Nigel Lythgoe. According to Nigel Lythgoe, Taylor Hicks was forced to change his song at the beginning of the week. Taylor had originally selected an Otis Redding song entitled "Try A Little Tenderness" but producers told him the song didn’t fit within the genre of classic love songs. Nigel said they examined the songs from the perspective of could they see Andrea Bocelli singing the song. Nigel said he told Taylor “that’s ok if we’re doing the Blues Brothers week but this is Andrea Bocelli week.” Taylor had to change his song to "Just Once," and he received harsh criticism from the judges over his performance.

Nigel Lythgoe’s explanation is not sitting very well with many Taylor Hicks’ fans. Many would argue that “Try A Little Tenderness” is definitely a classic love song, and the criteria that the song has to fit the style of the guest artist of the week has never been enforced previously. Chris Daughtry has been allowed to push the envelope with performances that fit his rock style even if it didn’t match the theme week. In fact, Simon Cowell even praised Chris for refusing to compromise after he performed a rock rendition of “I Walk the Line” during Music of the 50s theme week, when Barry Manilow was the guest. It would take a very vivid stretch of the imagination to envision Barry Manilow singing a rock version of a Johnny Cash tune.

Not only are fans upset about this latest forced song-changing controversy, but several Taylor Hicks’ fans feel like this unfair treatment has been going on for the entire competition. A Reality TV Magazine reader named Maxine wrote in with the following analysis, “If Taylor sings then the judges say "Where is the old Taylor" - If he dances, they call it bar/cabaret - so where is the happy medium?” In an earlier article, Reality TV Magazine noted that Simon Cowells’ comments toward Taylor Hicks have been particularly vicious, even questioning if he might be drunk.

There appears to be no way that Taylor can please the judges. The truly shocking part is that Taylor Hicks is the only remaining singer who has never been in the bottom group up for elimination on the show. If the public likes Taylor Hicks, why are the judges’ comments virtually always extremely negative? Chris Daughtry gets stage smoke and guitar players, Katharine McPhee gets sexy dresses and apologies, while Taylor Hicks gets his song pulled at the last minute and accusations of intoxication. There’s no doubt that Katharine McPhee and Chris Daughtry are extremely talented and deserve every bit of their success, but what concerns Taylor Hicks’ fans is what appears to be unequal treatment on the show.

Could producers be afraid of a showdown between two Southern guys (Taylor Hicks & Chris Daughtry)? Do they prefer the ratings prospects of a final involving a West Coast girl (Katharine McPhee) vs. a Southern guy (Chris Daughtry)? Is the deck being stacked against Taylor Hicks? Please post your opinions in the comments section below.

Reality TV Magazine is your source for American Idol news. For other great American Idol news, please also check out SirLinksALot: American Idol or SirLinksALot: Taylor Hicks.

Topics: American Idol |

« Real World Key West Recap: Hurricane Tyler! | Home | Py Family On Extreme Makeover Home Edition »

320 Responses to “American Idol: Taylor Hicks’ Fans Upset By Song Changing Controversy”

Anonymous Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 12:46 pm
AI knows that Taylor is getting the highest number of votes. That’s why Ryan said that Chris and Kat got the “highest” number of votes last week.
Catherine Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 12:49 pm
They changed his song choice and advertized only Taylor’s change of mind (for Crazy little thing etc.)making him sound like an annoying diva. We, Taylor’s fans, know, but what image does it send to those who could vote for him, those whose opinion varies from week to week…
Last year was bad, this year is the worst.
Melissa Crislip Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 12:57 pm
Simon has definitely been negative towards Taylor almost every week. Only once I can remember he said that Taylor did OK. I want American Idol to know that unfair treatment towards any constestant is horrible and should not be tolerated. I for one will not be watching AI anymore after Taylor is off the show. So good bye to this viewer!
TaylorSucks Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:01 pm
Simon is critical towards everyone this just shows that Taylor’s fans are babies. It is called the real world so get used to it. Besides Taylor sucks and it looks like he has a disease or something when he dances plus he can’t sing worth a flip
Joy Hall Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:18 pm
I think Taylor Hicks has been treated the most unfairly that I’ve ever seen on a reality show. He has a fanbase unbelievable with class and talent to spare. The judges are predjudicial and pick favorites on the show. I thought this was for Americans to decide. It makes me and hundreds of people I know to question the credibility of AI. I know that I will never feel the same about this show anymore,as I know numerous people say the same thing. They don’t even hide their biased views. To openly ask someone if their drunk is ridiculious. It shows that that they are trying to get people to vote the other way. They did this last year to an extent but this year is just unbelievable. I will watch the show and support Taylor because he deserves our support, but I will never like Idol again. What Simon said to Mandisa and Taylor is uncalled for, and an apology is not enough. But he did not have the class to even apoligize to Taylor. He can push Chris and Kat all he wants, their careers will never be what Taylor’s will simply because he is multi-talented and they are not. Give the American people a little credit, after all we buy the CD’s and pay to see the concerts. Talent alone is not enough to be marketable. Furthermore, you cannot formulate a standardized model of an entertainer, people don’t always fit inside the box. Elvis was different and original and that’s why he was successful. There was no one else to compare him too, which is what originality implies. You aren’t orginal just by singing; you need something more. Lots of people sing. You need the whole package. Taylor is the whole package. Why they do no want the most talented entertainer is beyond me. And that is it in a nutshell. Joy Hall RN Memphis, TN.
Jane Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:25 pm
My husband and I have been fans of Taylor since the Vegas audition. Remember the sheer joy and exuberance he showed early on in the Top 24? It has become clear with both “Country Roads” and “Just Once” that he was forced to sing a song he didn’t like at the last minute, his original choices being eliminated for very lame reasons. Can anyone explain why the producers can’t figure that out well before hand if there is a legit reason not to do a song? Neither was a licensing issue.

It saddens me to see AI take such a joyous, good-hearted performer and bring them down. Makes AI come off as a big bully, IMHO, and makes me question the credibility of everything the judges and Ryan say.

I hope AI takes notice of this latest criticism and lets the contestants compete fairly the rest of the season.
mike Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:37 pm
Also remember they took away his song for country at the last minute. Apparently the guy whose song it was, had just been arrested or something and that is when he did country roads take me home, that was not good, but was also a last minute change. So that is twice they have tried to sabotage him.
dee Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:39 pm
They never apologised to Taylor calling him “drunk”, but to Katherine they apologised about her singing, because they got complaints. I thought the year of Clay Aiken was obvious when they pushed for Reuben, but I have to say, never have I seen such deliberate manipulation for a contestant as this years push for Chris. It sickens me.
Susan Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:49 pm
Of course American Idol favors some contestants and not others…and it’s very obvious that AI powers that be do not Taylor to win….but in my opinion, I don’t want Taylor to win either, because I would like to see him free to do what he does best, which is touch the people with his music. I am afraid that if he should win, that they would try to change him, and I wouldn’t like to see that….I hope he gets far enough to show the world what he can do, then let a producer who appreciates his voice and a style, sign him to a great contract. Then his fans can continue to enjoy his music and his spirit for years to come.
WillieT Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:54 pm
I think the show has been extremely unfair to Taylor- I won’t watch either if he doesn’t win since it will prove it’s rigged…
rob Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 1:58 pm
Yes, I gather that Stevie Wonder also sings like Red Hot Chilli Peppers version that Chris was allowed to do. Treat all the contestants fairly and we might have a believable competition. I honestly see this show falling apart in a year or two if they carry on like this.
Denise Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:12 pm
I too think AI is going way overboard this year. Most of the time the judges’ comments are NOT constructive, but just mean spirited and, frankly, ignorant, especially when it comes to Simon and Taylor Hicks. The judges’ oftentimes seem to go AGAINST the celebrity guests’ opinions too. Virtually everyone has had very good things to say about Taylor Hicks, including Barry Manilow “One of the great voices I’ve ever heard” and music producer David Foster “Taylor has potentially the most charisma, and that is very, very important to being a star.” Taylor has tried to give the judges what they claim they want, but there’s no pleasing them. I think Taylor should just be Taylor and that’s it. Thanks for doing this article!
Lori Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:17 pm
Taylor Hicks is THE BEST thing that has ever hit the American Idol stage! Problem is, when Taylor first auditioned, Simon said he’d never make it to the finals. He was wrong now wasn’t he?
Barbie-FLUSA Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:17 pm
It is such a shame…Taylor is a gentleman with a charm and talent the world has not seen in a very long time. He is touching the hearts of those around the globe who cannot even vote for him! This man is so real…it comes right though the cameras. We loved Elvis, the Beatles, and all the rest because they broke the molds!! Just let all of them do what they do best…I too will NEVER watch the show after the end. I am staying for Taylor and will vote for him as often as possible. He will be far bigger than AI and we will one day look back and say…that was the show that passed up Taylor Hicks!!!
Steven Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:22 pm
I think that Taylor fans are overreacting and they need to realize that Taylor does not have nearly the vocal capability of any of the other four finalists. His schtick is all about his gray hair and unique mannerisms. While I give him props for playing all of that to his advantage - his voice, while certainly better than many (he should be proud of having made it this far), is not of a strong enough caliber to make it all the way to the finals in this show.
Chandra Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:22 pm
What disturbs me is that the producer can acknowledge it after the performance but we DON’T hear an apology or acknowledgement on the show like Katherine got. And to address what “Taylorsucks” said up there, all I will say is that the answer is in the username. I have no ill will towards any of the final five, they are, in my opinion, the best top five in all five seasons.

That being said, Taylor deserves an apology for the drunk remark and they need to acknowledge the song change on the show in same way. Now, the best thing so far this week is that someone leaked Taylor’s current billboard song so if it changes, unless Taylor says “I changed it..” we’ll know they did it to him again. I still don’t know if they favor one over the other but I don’t get why some say he wouldn’t be marketable to the AI machine. I’d buy a CD entitled “Taylor Sings the Phone Book” if it were released. And no offense, but I really couldn’t see Bocelli singing “Have You Ever Really Loved a Woman” either.

The good thing is that the Soul Patrol is strong and let’s just say that the producers underestimated the power of the Clay Nation as well and look what happened there.
vickyh1 Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:24 pm
I think the show has been very unfair to Taylor…He is by far the most unique performer in the history of American Idol. He definitely is a brilliant singer/performer. America needs someone who doesn’t fit the mold, like the same old same old style of singers. We need to bring back the heart and soul of music; and Taylor Hicks can do this for us. So America..Vote for Taylor..and let the producers of AI & judges know what an injustice it has been and is for Taylor Hicks… He IS a cut above the rest!!
David Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:27 pm
My problem with making Taylor change his song is just this: How does a contestant get that far along in the week with a song they end up disallowing? What do they do, ignore the songs until the day before, and then say, “You can’t do that one?” My point is, someone isn’t doing their job. You approve the songs the day they are picked or you disallow them. Period. There should be no controversy possible. Why is this a difficult concept? AI is in it’s 5th season. This is unacceptable.
Teresa O'Brien Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:34 pm
I watch AI from Ireland and Taylor has a huge fanbase here - I do believe Chris, Elliott and Kat are all great in their own right but Taylor has been treated unfairly - for Melissa who chose to be crude it just shows how immature she is - Taylor has never been given the coveted last spot to sing that all have, Chris even on 2 occasions - Simon has never complimented Taylor except in the top 24 when he sang Levon and he said he made a mistake when he said he shouldn’t make the top 12. Anytime he does compliment him - he gets in another snide comment like his attire when he sang Trouble. I think of the remaining contestants both Taylor and Elliott have the most charisma and strong voices of them all - Chris and Kat whilst great singers of the type of songs that they sing they do not have strong personalities and if Taylor does leave soon, the show will be the loss of it. It’s sad to think this that it’s just about image etc - when did it stop being about just being a great singer with a great personality. We’ll all continue to love him here in Ireland and we can’t wait to buy his CD’s
Nancy Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:35 pm
Thank you so much for writing this article. This is what we have been trying to say all along. You would have to be ignorant not to see it. I Taylor’s music and I love seeing him perform (I would go to his concerts because he is an entertainer and has a beautiful voice.) I never voted before this year, but the first time I saw Taylor Hicks and he said,”just give me a chance” he had me heart and soul. Just like one of the guest said it is not just about singing, you have to be able to capture the audience by the______.
Taylor does this every week by his voice, movements, and personality. He captures our soul in the his music. I could just listen to him all day. I never get tired of watching him. He will someday be great!!Simon cannot stand to be wrong, so on goes the bashing…If AI keeps this up they will lose millions of viewers. WE LOVE TAYLOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!He has Soul.
AISUCKS Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:37 pm
We will keep watching this season & continue voting for Taylor, BUT once his time on this show is over, so is ours. We have never watched AI before, my family only watches it b/c of Taylor & once he is gone, so are we - THIS SHOW & THE PEOPLE THAT RUN IT ARE AS MANIPULATIVE & IMMORAL AS OUR CURRENT GOVERNMENT - and that is hard to match!
F Ross Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:53 pm
I think the way Taylor has been treated is very shameful.I find it embarrassing to watch adults treat other adults in such a way.It looks like they are trying to break Taylor’s spirit and are succeeding.He is not the joyous man who auditioned.I’m hoping he can get out of this situation as soon as possible.He will be harmed by having a contract with these people.He will be sighned up as soon as he’s out of AI.He and Elliot are a pleasure to listen to and watch,and both will probably do better with contracts from other recording organizations.Once they leave I will not be watching this program again.
Rorie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:57 pm
Thanks Reality TV Magazine for getting this out into the open.

Taylor Hicks deserves the same treatment on AI, as every other contestant. This is supposed to be a fair competition, with the American people deciding the winner.

If song choices are thrown out, people deserve to know the contestant had very little time to practice - PRIOR to their performance; it can then be taken into account by the viewing public.

Simon Cowell should apologise to Mr. Hicks for the less than even-handed way he has reviewed this contestant on national tv. Remarks that cast aspersions on Mr. Hicks can create doubt in the viewing audience.
Kim Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 2:59 pm
It is very obvious what is going on here and it makes me ill. Taylor has been treated unfairly since day one and it isn’t right.

I think they are afraid that Taylor has a chance of winning this competition and they are going to throw and obstacle in his way to make sure it doesn’t happen.

I am done after this season. The only reason I watched American Idol this year was because of Hicks. If I want divas and rockers, I will turn it on MTV2.
Nancy Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:00 pm
Thank you so much for writing this article. This is what we have been trying to say all along. You would have to be ignorant not to see it. I love Taylor’s music and I love seeing him perform (I would go to his concerts because he is an entertainer and has a beautiful voice.) I never voted before this year, but the first time I saw Taylor Hicks and he said,”just give me a chance” he had me heart and soul. Just like one of the guest said it is not just about singing, you have to be able to capture the audience by the______.
Taylor does this every week by his voice, movements, and personality. He captures our soul in the his music. I could just listen to him all day. I never get tired of watching him. He will someday be great!!Simon cannot stand to be wrong, so on goes the bashing…If AI keeps this up they will lose millions of viewers. WE LOVE TAYLOR!!!!!!!!!!!!!!He has Soul.
maggie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:06 pm
OMG, reading all these complaints here about Taylor reminds me of last year Constantine’s army of fans! The history has been repeating itself every single year at AI over and over again! Second year Clay, third year LaToya and Jeniffer Hudson, last year Constantine and this year Taylor! If we discuss unfair comments given by Simon regarding Taylor’s performances what about last year comments to Anthony Fedorov, the best male vocalist of the last year AI? Every year there is a “little” drama going on at AI show and the fans of the contestant who is under attack always feel the pain and the anger! Don’t forget that AI is just a show and if Taylor gets unpleasant remarks this week I am sure he will shine next week! Don’t worry, just wait and enjoy!
And about the changing the songs at the last moments,you most probably have forgotten that Katharine McPhee had to change the songs more than Taylor, for Queen’s week, for Great American Songs and Country Week!
And at the end - Simon LOVES Taylor, don’t worry about this too much!!!
Neal Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:07 pm
I think it’s pretty sad that AI is sabotaging Taylor, (obviously the ‘Idol’ with the most/best fans) simply because Chris and Kat are cookiecutter pop-stars.
Zennjenn Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:15 pm
The obvious pimping of a certain contestant is sickening to me and I will never watch this show again after Taylor. He has enormous talent which they DON’T want the average viewer to see. Check out his original music that he wrote and performed himself. I heard Taylor’s voice at the vegas auditions and was blown away. The man can sing, with a whole lot of SOUL. He is too good for this manipulative show…
Jacque Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:16 pm
I have been a fan of Taylor’s since the auditions and it very clear that Simon does not like him. Well too bad for Simon-last year he openly endorsed the Barbie stick figure instead of the complete entertainer. Taylor, although no Bo Bice-is also a complete entertainer and not an exhibitionist like Miss Mc Perfect
DEBBIE Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:21 pm
My husband and I are so, so enamored with Taylor. After reading all of these posts, we can see that we are among the multitudes. Taylor is amazing,truly a gift. For the first time since we were teens (many moons ago) we have found an artist who ’sends’ us, touches our souls. We have him downloaded as a ringtone and listen to everything we can get our hands on. If he does not win AI (which will mean the show really is fixed) he will go on. We feel privledged to be in on the beginning of his great career. Cannot wait to buy his cd’s and go to his concerts. The rest of the contestants are good but same old, same old. Been there done that. We just pray Taylor pays attention to what he is and not what AI and guest stars are trying to turn him into. TAYLOR FOREVER!
CW Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:22 pm
Since American Idol lets the voting public decide the winner, then it stands to reason they are looking for the contestant with the most appeal. Taylor’s appeal crosses all demographic boundaries. He already has a huge fanbase that is worldwide. I can’t imagine why they are ignoring this. I hope that American Idol will address this issue and set the record straight.
Gina Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:23 pm
The Soul Patrol was SHOCKED to hear Taylor’s song choice was “Just Once” by James Ingram.

Out of all the great soulful loves songs we knew that was not his first, second–or even third choice! We knew something was up!
Ruth Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:23 pm
My first AI season and I think my last. I hate the way Simon especially has been so biased against Taylor Hicks. It’s crossed the line into personal when Simon accuses Taylor of being drunk twice! The sudden song changes have also taken a toll on Taylor, especially the last minute Otis Redding song change this week. Since when is Try A Little Tenderness not a love song? It’s one of the greatest love songs ever. The show is not even trying to be fair to Taylor. I hate what they’re doing to him - trying to break his spirit. What kind of horror show is this so-called singing competition turning into? Forget AI next year. It’s been hard enough to deal with the dirty pool this year!!
Shannon Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:26 pm
I think this is a step in the right direction. The worst part about them pulling his song last minute was the actual reasoning. Did Nigel really think his reasoning of “Andrea Bocelli wouldn’t sing this” would fly? Seriously? Bocelli wouldn’t be sing any of those songs — especially “Have you Ever Really Loved a Woman?” Taylor’s choice of “Try a Little Tenderness” probably scared the powers that be because he probably was SO GOOD that he would blow everyone else out of the water. That song is made for Taylor’s voice. C’est la vie. At least when he’s off this show, he can get back to his true self.

By the way, for those who aren’t aware of his CD, “Under the Radar,” I highly recommend it. It’s his original music and very, very good.
Isabella Eck Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:28 pm
I don’t think the show is bias. What I think is that definetely Taylor is not AI material. He is an OK, singer. They are looking for the “greatest” artist in the competition. Sorry, Taylor is NOT.
rob Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:31 pm
It’s simple really, there are more rock songs lying around the shelves waiting to be sung, than new soul numbers that Taylor can sing. They just want to produce a cd as quickly as possible while the winner is still hot, to sell. It is all about money. When Clay won they gave him 17-19 songs to record and chose 12 to put on the cd. These were songs they had in storage. Not specifically written for him.
It would cost much more to produce a cd for Taylor.
Trish Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:35 pm
Taylor! Taylor! What a phenomenal performer! He has a great, personable Southern charm, and is extremely talented. Simon doesn’t like him? So what!! Simon is highly prejudiced against anything country or southern, regardless of talent. (Are we to honor what the Queen prefers?) Taylor will shine regardless of whether or not he wins Idol. He’s been blessed by great talent, and he will be blessed in life by the ability to exhibit it. Why should some “beauty” such as Katherine, who has performed professionally and coached, be held in such high regard? How many years has she worked on developing her voice? I have my doubts she was born with it, as Taylor was. And, why is Chris allowed to exploit his “hard rocker” image that some of us (me!) can’t stand? Is it because a rocker is more acceptable to the judges than a someone who leans toward country? This competition should be for those who are attempting to kick-start their musical careers, not to just further their “profession”.
leigh Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:37 pm
They also did the same thing to him on Country night, at the last minute they pulled his song. When Simon said “safe, boring lazy. It sounded like you chose that song 10 seconds ago,no rehearsal and I will just do a country song, whopee. Didn’t do anything for you really”. When Simon knew that was exactly what happened, Taylor didn’t have TIME to rehearse the song when they pulled his song at thelast minute. That is twice they have tried to sabotage him.
Lee Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:40 pm
Aside from Taylor Hick’s passion for music and genuine talent he is a quality individual.
Rude and distasteful comments per Simon are uncalled for…last minute song changes are a definetly a disadvantage for Taylor and others… For many of us AI fans…I believe this will be your test if we choose to view future AI seasons.
Taylor is an outsanding singer and performer. He has awakended a wonderful feeling in many people…hope AI can grab the multitude of our massive legion for Taylor Hicks.
I hope your voting results are as genuine as Mr. Hicks. Keep it Real!
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:43 pm
Stop the whining!!!

Chris had to change his song the last minute too. He was originally going to sing “Wicked Games” by Chris Isaacs and the AI producers nixed it the last minute.

Paris was sang song choice #5 for American Standards week.

This whining by Taylor fans is so very annoying.
Dane Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:44 pm
I was very disappointed when I found out that Taylor was made to change his song yet again! (first time was during Country theme week).I would have liked so much to hear him sing ‘Try a little tenderness’.
Taylor is the only reason I watch AI. I have never watched the show before this. His talent, uniqueness and charm are what drew me to the show. I hope to see the same Taylor that I remember from his ‘Taking to the streets’ performance..it was just awesome!

Soul patroller from Denmark.
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:51 pm
Taylor fans are such cry babies!!!

Whaaaaaaaaaa!!!!

Every contestant has been bashed by Simon from Chris’ being too indulgent, to Elliot’s having NO stage presence, etc.

Simon gave Taylor a great compliment a week before when he said “MAGIC” happened during his performance.
Luvth8r Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:58 pm
I will never understand why Taylor was not aloud to sing “Try a little Tenderness”. It is a love song and at no time did they say the catagory was “songs that can be sung by Andrea Andrea Bocelli ”

They said the theme was “Love Songs” and he chose a love song, and it was ripped from him days later. If they knew that that didnt fit what they wanted then why wait to change his song at the last minute?

I hope to see Taylor as the next American Idol. I think he has already proven to be an american idol.
Southern Cal Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 3:59 pm
Taylor breaks the mold - he’s so talented and unique that he could be the next Elvis, Beatles, etc.

I hope he WINS - he is an American Idol. I don’t know why fans wouldn’t want him to win - that seems crazy. Let AI change the lame songs that they write for the winners, and let Taylor put his own stuff on his album.

Taylor’s popularity should be a wake up call for AI producers - the public doesn’t the same, canned junk music that AI has been dishing out. It’s time for a something new.
maddee.j Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:09 pm
AI has become the biggest reality crap in tv.Tay should receive million apologies from AI judges (esp. Mr.I control Idol, SIMON COW! and RANDY “DAWG”)& producers for every UNFAIR treatment they gave!
They make their point that they dont want Tay TO WIN so OBVIOUS!! they may be missing the fact that Tay is the most talented contestant, but because being so unmarketable they prefer Chris and Kat!
AI suck!!
Carolle Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:12 pm
WHEW, just read all these comments and have decided to place the outcome, in my heart, in the higher powers (hope this covers everybody without offending anyone.)I am trembling from emotion. Taylor is our American Idol, he is Simply The Best, his star will shine FOREVER.
Amen………
Rebecca Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:19 pm
The judges are not tough ENOUGH on Simon! He is really NOT that good! I am NOT a fan and the reason the judges say what they even do say is because it is TRUE! Although Paula and Randy still always say nice things about him so I am not sure what you Taylor fans are complaining about! Simon for one is being HONEST! Taylor reminds me of the guy that gets up at every wedding or party or Kareoke bar and sings! What I like LEAST are his facial expressions, his knee bending on every song, his twisted mannerisms, etc…NONE of that I find necessary to SINGING! Joe Cocker was great but we don’t need another one. And his dancing is AWFUL!! If he is supposed to be so soulful he sure is lacking in soul and rythym! He can NOT dance and should not try. THESE are the reasons why Taylor should not move on. I am sure he is a very nice guy but he really is NOT that good. Listen people, REALLY listen!
Mylo Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:19 pm
Taylor Hicks is the most unique talent to hit American Idol EVER.
Between his soul, his heart, his gentleness and his talent, he is absolutely in line to be the next singing star that America is longing for.

I am not an American Idol Fan, never watched the show until this year. I was lucky enough to see Talor’s audition, the Tv was just on in the background and when he started to sing, my head snapped up from my computer. I was hooked at that point, been watching ever since. Big shock was Simon Cowell’s response to his audition, I could only think, OMG this man is so stupid, is he deaf or just tone deaf??? His remarks were rude and uncalled for, so hateful, no need for that. What does a British born producer/judge (whose favorite music is American Standards)know about soul music? Soul music is true Americana, it derives from the heart of our country.

Now to the bias issue:

Very Sad that they can’t be fair and give everybody the same shot. My personal opinion is that they have never seen any person garner as many votes as Taylor and they had a whole season to finish so they had to make some of the other contestant interesting, the only way they could do that was to put Taylor in a bad light -

They absolutely are pushing Chris D. and Kathrine M.,. They allowed Chris to sing a “Pop-Rock” Song in the classic love song show (not to mention the pimping on stage and that the song he sang is one of the most favorite songs of ALL time) Just a little too much on the “Give Chris whatever he needs to get on top” push. Kathrine is talented but I really believe she should be a DIVA in Opera or on Stage. She is not the AI type. But since she had been in the bottom before they absolutely gave her a boost by critizing and apologizing.

What AI CANNOT do is stop America from loving Taylor Hicks. Regardless of their manipulations,
we will continue to enjoy his music, buy his cds, go to his concerts and support him in any way we can. My wish would be that AI let Taylor sing a song of his choice in his KEY and with his harmonica.

America would fall in love all over again.
SharB Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:22 pm
My husband and I can’t thank you enough for bringing our concerns out in the open. We truly hope Mr. Seacrest will have something to say regarding our concerns. We agree that the final five are all very good, but Taylor has the uniqueness that drew us all in and excited us again into thinking: THERE’S WHAT I’VE BEEN WAITING FOR! Wow! We will be in the audience for the AI tour in California and hope that it’s in celebration for our effort in behalf of this wonderful young man.
Sagie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:24 pm
It is so disheartening that AI finds a unique and special talent in Taylor Hicks and they don’t recognize or respect him in the slightest. I am yet another fan that has watched the show since the first year but never voted until this year when Taylor Hicks walked into that room saying that he just wanted his voice heard.

America is tired of the pop tarts and all the musicians that sound exactly the same as everyone else. And Taylor has stirred the hearts of many with his whiskey tenor voice and entertaining performances. How rare is that to see someone that LOVES performing that much and it just translates over to his fans. And then to watch week by week as they try to break his spirit and bust up his popularity with their song switching shenagans, having the band play louder then him. Or give him the crappy 1st spot to sing in.

Since the top 12 he is the only one that has not got to sing in the last spot, that we call the “pimp” spot where Chris has gotten that spot 2 times already. And everyone else except for Taylor has sang in that spot.

It seems pretty obvious that this year they have decided who they want to win based upon their opinion on who can make them the most money and I honestly think they put Taylor in there for “kick” thinking he would be an amusing character but not one that would stick around. Little did they know that we LOVE Taylor and we LOVE his music. He has a way of reaching into your soul and awaking a renewed love of music. His joy brings us Joy and AI needs to let America decide who it wants for OUR idol and quit dicking around some of the contestants like Taylor.

Taylor if they like it or not, if they understand it or not. IS a legend in the making for our time. The man is just going to be HUGE!
samantha Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:37 pm
One other aspect, did you see that awful lighting on him on last week’s show. It made him look like a ghost, this weird white light shining on the top of his head. Compare that to the stars and lights and pink lights flashing for Chris. Well, Chris gets a laser light show for every appearance. His budget must be huge for the lighting
Linda Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:39 pm
The nasty comments to Taylor Hicks by Simon is nowhere in the ballpark with the others - constant references to his looking like an old man and the implications that he is drunk.

Having him make a change in his choice of song at the very start would not have been so bad, but having him change it at the beginning of the week is wrong and is unacceptable. Most of the viewers do not know what happened to him and think that he picked the song and didn’t perform it well - leaving them with a false impression. It is my understanding that he had been practicing Try a Little Kindness and would have “hit it out of the ballpark” (so to speak) with his performance. Makes you wonder doesn’t it?

I too watch AI because of Taylor Hicks. If AI doesn’t let the viewers know what happened, I too will never watch AI again.

Taylor Hicks is definitey unique and makes you smile when he performs.
taylorfan Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:46 pm
Everyone thinks their personal choice is the best singer. At some point, they are all equal in their skill level, it’s their style and delivery that separates them. Taylor Hicks is enjoyable and a thrill to listen to. Chris and Kat and Elliott put me to sleep. It doesn’t mean they can’t sing, it means they have no personality. Simon picks on Taylor for his mannerisms - anybody out there think Mick Jagger would have won American Idol? or would Simon have labeled him with the same insults he has labeled Taylor with as Mick is all over the stage and is not particularly good looking - Nor is he the greatest singer - but look at what a career. Wake up AI! I am only suffering through this season to see if Taylor wins and if he is treated equitably. Simon should not be allowed to take personal shots at the contestants - as he says this is a singing contest, not a whether I (Simon) personally like you contest. I honestly will give up on AI if Taylor doesn’t win. I have better things to do than to be manipulated and played by the AI producers every week.

As for those comments above, calling Taylor fans babies, whiners, etc. - you must be very afraid your own choice won’t win if Taylor’s fans stick together or you wouldn’t be making such an effort to make comments on a Taylor fan link. I don’t care to go into the Elliot, Chris, Katharine or Paris links, because they don’t intimidate me and I don’t care to try to talk their fans out of voting for their favorites. I respect their rights to their opinions and their right to vote for who they want. Either that or you work for AI and are trying to stem the tide of positive Taylor input.

Good luck. I love Taylor Hicks and will buy his records no matter what record label produces his work. The rest (yours) I will ignore, they’re too bland for me.
Lori Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:51 pm
I’m 37 yrs. old and never watched American Idol. That is until I heard a Sam Cooke song…I went into the living room and asked my daughter what she was watching. She said American Idol. I sat down and was riveted by what I heard. I didnt even look at the TV screen, I just listened. His voice is pure and amazing and raw. I was hooked. I started watching every week just in hopes to hear him again. I was thrilled beyond belief when he was picked to go into the top 24. FINALLY America would hear a true musician. I actually vote EVERY week. I look forward to Tues. and Wed. now…so much more than before. And why?? Because of ONE person.

TAYLOR HICKS!!

So let Simon and AI try and hold him down. With that voice and talent they arent going to hold him down for long. America has heard him…thats all that was needed.
ljones Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:56 pm
It’s very obvious that Taylor has been treated unfairly. This isn’t the first week that his song choice was changed and the judges comments seem to be based on the previous week’s number of votes. I love Taylor and hope that he can win but I feel that the bias will prevent that. All the contestants are talented, but Taylor seems to be a cut above the others. My friends and I believe they don’t want a contestant from Alabama to win and they are not being fair to him. Maybe Ryan Seacrest will learn about these concerns and apologize to Taylor but I doubt it.

The Soul Patrol is so proud of Taylor and we will buy his cds no
matter what happens.
TaylorSucks Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:57 pm
You people need to realize that what the judges say shouldn’t matter if you like that person. Simon may say he sucks or what not(which he does),but yall can still vote for him I don’t see how he was treated any different cuz he aleast gets noticed unlike Elliot. He is not the best vocalist and if America was going by that then Mandisa would have won. They prolly apologized to Kat cuz they were harsh real harsh but again it don’t matter what the judges say because they don’t vote
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 4:59 pm
Whose voice sounded better Tuesday night: Elliot or Taylor. Elliot wins hands down.

Stop the crying and whining. The reality is that Taylor stunk on Tuesday and others sang much better.

Accept that fact.
Tanda Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:02 pm
In the end - what is important that no matter how much you love Taylor or think he’s been treated unfairly - don’t just talk and wish….

VOTE VOTE and VOTE for the entire 2 hrs each week.

For those of you who think he’d be better off NOT winning AI - be real. The man wants to win. You all aren’t true fans if you say that.

Just VOTE for Taylor Hicks!!
Nancy Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:09 pm
Whatever genius AI producer told Taylor he could not sing “Try a Little Tenderness” because it was not a true love song must not get much action with the women or maybe is gay because he obviously knows nothing about the female pysche! It is one of the most dynamic, moving, and dramatic lovesongs ever and Taylor would have been kickin’ singing it. AI has wronged Taylor twice now. My husband and I still haven’t gotten over the “Country Roads” debacle. They owe him big time. Time to let him bring out the harmonica and sing whatever he wants.
Russ Goldenrod Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:15 pm
The man who needs a bra “Simon Cowell” must apologize Taylor.

He not only deserves an apology he should demand one.
Diane Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:33 pm
I have been an American Idol fan for all 5 seasons and this is the first time I felt the need to post a comment. I want to say I believe all 5 finalists that are left are talented, however, my favorite is Taylor Hicks. The comments that Simon has made such as “Are You Drunk” are totally uncalled for and is an attack onTaylor’s character rather than his singing. There should have been an apology for that. I just cannot believe the unfair treatment that Taylor has received. I also believe that the judges are trying to push their favorites on America instead of allowing us to make our own decisions without their biased and uncalled for comments. Constructive criticism should be given but the type of treatment on AI this year should not be tolerated.
Elizabeth Sargent Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:38 pm
I agree Taylor has been treated very unfairly. Twice he has had to change his song with one days notice and then be critcized for “not being prepared” and looking uptight” . Taylor is a very unique entertainer and deserves the respect the other contestants recieve.I have his CD and never tire hearing it.Vote for Taylor.
SoulFanGranny Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:45 pm
Thank you for getting this information out to the general public!Taylor Hicks is the most exciting talent to ever appear on AI, and he’s the one who most makes the show worth watching each week. I believe he is being intentionally undermined by AI. The reason? Who knows, really. Maybe AI fears the enormous love and support Taylor has garnered (and well deserves). They don’t see him as someone they could mold into one of the ’same old, same old’ type pop stars, to make a quick buck. In other words, he’s too unique for them! I’ve lost a lot of respect for those running AI. No matter, though, Taylor Hicks will be a major star when AI is nothing but a distance memory! Luv Ya, Taylor!
keiko starr Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 5:51 pm
it’s obvious chris is going to win…no doubt in a lot of people’s minds…and with AI’s pattern, it’s obvious it’s going to be an all male finale…i think it’s taylor…he has the widest fanbase…and they will get him to the final…but chris will win…simon’s on the money with his predictions….and i’m a katharine fan but i know simon is right she won’t/can’t win…..it is all too obvious….i’ve been correct in my predictions from season 2 (missed #1) so either i’m psychic…which i know i’m not so it must be all too predictable….
Melissa Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 6:22 pm
I love Taylor and wish him all the best! He is the only reason I watch AI and This is the only time I have ever voted. I vote two hours faithfully!! In regard to the commment from Teresa O’Brien I did not make that nasty comment, it was made by “taylorsucks.” The names are below individual posts.
Stella Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 6:22 pm
Let’s face it, the winner of AI is now, and has always been predetermined. The votes do not count for who wins, (only who they may keep around a little longer), and the eliminations are systematically contrived by how they edit the contestants and the judges comments. When they need to get rid of a really popular or talented singer, they do it when they have has an off week. This way we all say, “well they had a bad week”. Remember when they needed to get rid of Jennifer Hudson who in a face off with Fantasia could have blown her away? They put the three strongest singers in the bottom 3, and then we were not so surprised it was Jennifer. That’s how they manipulate us into believing that the truly talented get voted off.
They are now doing that to Taylor. Slowly trying to prove to America that he can not keep up with the predetermined winner Chris and his opponent Katherine. Take away his unique style and he just blends in. Make him sing songs that do not appeal to his strengths and you justify his departure beforew th finals.
I can accept that AI is fixed. I understand that it is a TV show that needs characters for ratings and they must manipulate the votes to ensure the major label that a marketable person will win. I cannot however accept that they take a person like Taylor and force him to look less talented than he is. It insults the American veiwer and potentally destroys a man’s carrer.
Future contestants beware. If you truly are talented but you are not the predetermined winner, you may have a difficult time proving your worth to a label and America should AI choose to sabbatoge you.
brianne Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 6:33 pm
At least Taylor is getting the hype, like Chris and Kat did. Everyone seems to have forgotten all about Paris and poor Elliott, so they’ll most likely be the next to go. Then it’ll come down to the battle of the hype. Not that i have anything against the others because i guess Taylor’s okay and Kat does have a nice voice (though i liked the OTHER tall,all-American brunette beauty,Ayla, better)and Chris is actually my favorite (though i think it would help him much more as a Rocker to NOT be pegged as an “American Idol”.And besides his band,Absent Element,is awesome and i’d hate if they had to split like Constantine’s band or he had to put out a pop CD like Bo). But it would just be really nice to see an underdog win for ONCE.
Stop Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 6:38 pm
Ok, I’m a huge Taylor fan, and I thought his last performance was just ok. Whether or not his song choice was changed, I think we are starting to sound like whiners. I’m sorry to say it because I’ll always vote for Taylor, and I think he should win. But our complaining is a little embarassing. I truly think that each of the remaining 5 deserves to be there. Are we forgetting that this is reality t.v. show? It’s a game….Taylor will have a long-lasting career in music when it’s over–win or lose! Several of the finalists will. Let’s just keep voting, and let the show run it’s course. These performers are probably way nicer than their crazy fans. There’s really no need to keep bashing the contestants. They’re all fabulous!
brianne Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 6:57 pm
Actually,they pretty much took away Chris’ unique style too. I would’ve loved to have heard him do a Rock Love Song like U2’s “One” or Journey’s “Open Arms”,or even “wicked Game”,like a lot of people heard he was SUPPOSED to sing. But Bryan Adams??? I’m glad the judges loved it, but as a fan of the “old Chris”,i honestly felt a little betrayed. What happened to the Chris Daughtry who blew me away with “Hemmorage”, “Innuendo” and “Walk The Line”? If this shows what’ll happen if he wins,i’ll be perfectly satisfied if my favorite places number 3 (the top 2 have to sing mushy songs anyway:) ). He does seem to really want this,though,so i don’t know. I guess i wouldn’t be too upset if he won. Probably more if he didn’t. But if he DID get cut at #3, my dream showdown would be Kat vs Elliott and Elliott winning because it would be like “Revenge of the Underdogs”,but i most likely won’t get to see that. But at this point,i guess it doesn’t really matter who wins because they’re all obviously talented or they wouldn’t be there and they could all still get signed,so i guess i’ll just have to wait and see like everyone else.
Anonymous Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:04 pm
Truly appreciate this article. The American public needs to know the extent we are being manipulated by this show. It is shameful and unfortunate. Sadly, it is at the expense of a very nice but naive 29-year-old contestant named Taylor Hicks. I don’t know who I am more angry with, Simon Cowell and his corporate music cronies or Hicks himself, who shows up week after week with his Southern gentleman charm and sings and dances his heart out as if he really wants to win this thing. Hey Taylor: wasn’t last week’s arbitrary song change enough to convince you that the PTB do NOT want you to win? Hicks is in the jaws of a corporate machine working overtime these days to counteract all the positive publicity (E.T., SNL) to convince voters Hicks is too wierd, too spastic, too old, TOO EVERYTHING, to be an American Idol. Mr. Hicks, it is best for all concerned that you understand this, so that we, your diligent fans, don’t have to agonize for you everytime AI orders a last-minute song change or sends the camera guy in charge of close-ups (Katherine’s cousin, possibly?) on a food run right before you take the stage. On second thought, never mind. I wouldn’t want Taylor to change a thing and I guess I can afford agonize on Taylor’s behalf a few more weeks.
Grama' From Iowa Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:05 pm
It is blatently apparent that Taylor Hicks is getting a back seat from the AI Judges & the other Powers to Be of said show. Let the man sing & stop the childish antics to put him in the shadows. Taylor is an amazing talent, & desereves the fair treatment the others are getting. It has been a long time since I have witnessed a singer who “Just wants his voice heard”, & I am old ‘enuff to have seen it in Elvis & Neil Diamond. I for 1 am tired of the GAMES being played by ALL involved with the production of this TALENT show. We ALL saw it to a small extent in the Clay / Reuben year, but on a MUCH smaller scale. Bring back the true essence of what the show is supposed to be ALL about~~~The Real American Idol !!!
Kay Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:05 pm
I Have personally found Simon very offensive and unfair and insulting this year to Taylor and
I and so many others who do love Taylor and his style. I truly feel Taylor deserves an appology for all of the thing listed in the original article. Especially the drunk comment. And Nygil needs to look at his choices and if he stretches the boundaries for one person he should for the others also. I am left feeling that I am being manipulated and treated as if I did not have a brain and powers of observation. And I am frankly insulted by the handling of this years American Idol and the treatment of Taylor Hicks.
diane lang Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:20 pm
I’m 55 years old and live in northern virginis and Taylor Hicks is the ONLY performer I would pay to see. The rest are talented, but they do not have the flair and presence Taylor has–what an entertainer! I didn’t want to like him at first, he seemed like a hayseed, but now I love him. I’m all about being entertained, and whenever he performs,I find myself smiling and laughing. That guy has charisma no other performer I’ve seen in the last twenty years has-Taylor, when are you coming to Virginia?
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:21 pm
Taylor is better than Elvis…What are you saying.
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:23 pm
Whaaaaaaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

That poor Taylor.
Joann Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:26 pm
I agree that Taylor will be successful whether or not he wins on American Idol. However, AI should not be heavy handed in song selection. No doubt about it, it was wrong to force Taylor to pick a new song the day before the performance. As to Simon’s “drunk” comments, Simon may have thought it was funny. Most of us found it insensitive. An apology would be nice.
Joann Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:27 pm
I agree that Taylor will be successful whether or not he wins on American Idol. However, AI should not be heavy handed in song selection. No doubt about it, it was wrong to force Taylor to pick a new song the day before the performance. As to Simon’s “drunk” comments, Simon may have thought it was funny. Most of us found it insensitive. An apology would be nice.
Barb Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:36 pm
Until now I have never so much paid attention to AI…except at the end. Many of us have been charmed by Mr. Hicks. He is the genuine thing. I am sorry for those who see it their mission in life to stomp on people’s joy! Taylor is a JOY, he is Wacky…and we love him for that. If standing up for some one who is having rocks thrown at him is an offense…then NO one is safe. Yes this is a show, yet it is entertainment, but once in a while someone comes along and changes makes you stop and take a second look. It is never wrong to stand up for what you believe! Even if it is something as small as a ride on a bus…being able to eat where you want to…or go wooow when you sing! WE LOVE YOU TAYLOR!
don Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:38 pm
I hate reality shows, and I hate American Idol even more. But when I was switching channels and saw this gray-haired performer, I stopped and watched. When he sang my favorite Sam Cook song, I was hooked. Taylor sings to my soul, and even more he has the potential to sing to our nation’s soul. We need someone like Hicks who represents the regular guy-raw, honest, optimistic–he listens to the criticism, but he goes on, never giving up–sort of like me, sort of like the silent majority, that never gets heard. Thanks Taylor for giving us ordinary guys a voice. Hats off to you, whether you win or not.
Teresa Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:44 pm
Thanks for posting this. My husband, and I have been a fan of Taylor’s since he first auditioned in Vegas. When I found out that AI had changed his song choice for the second time, I was so upset. It was totally unfair for them to do that at the last minute, giving him a limited amount of time to rehearse a new song, when the other constestants had a whole week to rehearse theirs. If it is true and AI doesn’t want him to win I truley do not understand this. Taylor has a huge fanbase, and yes people would buy his CD’s. I for one bought his Under The Radar CD, and would buy any other CD’s that he would make. He is simply the best contestant that has ever been on AI. If this manipulation continues the way it has been. I will never watch AI again. I have watched it from the first season with Kelly and Justin, and have always enjoyed the show, but this year has been special to me because of Taylor Hicks. He is, and will always be my favorite, and I do not like the way he is being treated.
Darsha Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:45 pm
Hi, I think the judges have treated him bad, but i think taylor can take it. Taylor is a great guy and fun to watch and deserves to be in the fnale. WHAT I DON’T WANT IS KATH. IN THE FINALE, BECAUSE SHE IS SURELY GOING TO WIN BECAUSE OF HER LOOK AND DRESSES. SHE DOES NOT HAVE ANY TALENT THEN KAKHINESS. I HOPE SHE GOES HOME. I DON’T HATE HER THAT MUCH, BUT THE MORE PEOPLE LIKE HER, THE MORE I GET MAD. I THINK THE REAL SHOW DOWN WILL BE TAYLOR AND CHRIS, BECAUSE THEY BOTH DESERVE TO BE THERE. SO PLEASE VOTE FOR CHRIS AND TAYLOR. WE HAVE TO GET THEM TO FINALE AND THEN IT’S UP TO AMERICA.
Gloria Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:52 pm
It is against the law for game shows to predetermine the winner. YOU are the voter. Simon and AI have done a great favor for Taylor by making YOU ALL a raving mad crowd. You are just like the citizens of Paris, crying out for the heads of the royalty. So, vote.
I will- for Paris.
All Bout Taylor Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 7:59 pm
Oh, the frustration is endless, we have been Taylor fans since the beginning and realized early on that they would do anything to keep him from winning, especially when they realized how attracted every age was to him, Chris and Katherine are ok but they appeal only to their specific genre’. Taylor will be fine if he doesnt win but if he doesnt it needs to be Americas choice, anymore of sudden changes im done with AI.
Patricia Watson Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:09 pm
I have a feeling that Taylor is not going to take much more of this jerking around. He is a gentelmen and will not stoop to the level of this show instead…

He will rise above all this pettyness.

If it don’t kill you, It will make you stronger! Taylor is coming back stronger than ever!

Please Vote for the full 2 hours. Come to AI forum and join the Soul Patrol. Get cingular and text! This is the way to get your voice heard. Give Taylor a resounding…. YES!

Go Taylor!!!!!!!!!!!
JJ Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:10 pm
THIS POST IS FOR THOSE WHO SAYS TAYLOR’S FANS ARE WHINNING: It did Katherine good didn’t it? She got the apology she deserved because of her fans complaining right? In fact, I do believe she did an excellent job. I was surprised by the judges comments - almost seemed rehearsed. Anyways, Taylor’s fans - including myself - simply stand up for their man and are not afraid too. We GET Taylor and do not think he should have been criticized so harshly by the judges in front of millions of people, over a performance he only had a day to rehearse. Not honly does he have to rehearse, but learn the words, him and the band need to rehearse together and be on key. . . A whole lot goes into play here. No time to really GET into the song. I personally rather not see Taylor with Simon’s label, but he said he wants to win AI, so I’m here to support that and vote for him as hard I as I can EACH AND EVERY WEEK.
Terri Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:13 pm
Stop whining. It is not obvious that Simon or the producers have a favorite this season. Simon has been critical of everyone. He was wrong about Katherine, and he apologized. I hope he would have apologized even if Fox hadn’t gotten e-mails/phone calls. Simon was not wrong about Taylor’s performance this week. It was terrible. I know Clay and probably many others have had to change their songs. Taylor should be flexible and make the best of it. He did not look happy during the song and seemed to pout when he found out he didn’t receive the top number of votes. He didn’t deserve the most votes. When Taylor is good, Simon compliments him. I believe the word was “magic”. Taylor is very inconsistent (more inconsistent than the others). When he’s good, he’s good. Taylor appears to have difficulty singing softer songs or songs which he can’t have a seizure to. Taylor does have devoted fans and that’s great, but they need to take off their rose colored glasses and see that every other remaining finalist has more talent, maybe not charisma, but talent than Taylor.
Mari Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:18 pm
I have been watching AI for 5 years now. I have never felt compelled to vote let alone buy one of their CD’s until Taylor Hicks sang Levon. I was hooked! I ordered his CD Under The Radar and look foward to buying more of any of his future CD’s. It has been obvious from day one that Simon (who owns the label) does not want Taylor to win. You can bet your bottom dollar it is Chris. He has been given the coveted spot too many times with special lighting and camera angels. Kat has show us the bottom of her breast to the top of her legs to get us to vote for her (that’s pretty cheap). Chris does sound ok but most of the time he is screaming with this I’ve killed your little sister and she’s buried in the backyard look. (Creepy) I could go on but there is no more room.
JJ. Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:24 pm
HAD TO ADDRESS THIS POSTER, QUOTE:
“When Taylor is good, Simon compliments him.”

Simon usually gives Taylor a backhanded compliments. And after Taylor’s Living for the City performance, which was REALLY the best performance of the night, all Simon could say was that he looked like a drunk dad who could sing??? Come on! What kind of mess was that?!? And after Simon’s treatment of Taylor after his Crazy Little Thing Call Love performance, he NEEDED to say something nice to Taylor during his You Send Me performance. He knew that. I’m sure Simon got criticized by many of his friends for that one.
Mari Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:33 pm
PS. Levon wears his war wounds like a crown.
Keith Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:35 pm
I’ve watched American Idol for 3 years. This will be my last year watching it. I’ve never seen such biased, rude remarks made by judges in my 25 years of life. Taylor Hicks has been mistreated and totally discriminated against. He is truly the best idol that I’ve seen since Carrie Underwood. He is talented, has charisma, had good looks,and is unique. I will vote for him as long as he is there. I am so disappointed in AI that I don’t think I will ever trust them anymore about showing favoritism. They pick the one they want to win and make the American people think they are involved in the decision. Really we are just making the network money. I will vote the rest of this season, but if they can’t be fair I won’t watch anymore. I’ve heard several people in my neighborhood say the same thing.
Laura Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:39 pm
First, I would like to thank you for posting this article. Last Tuesday night, after Taylor finished singing…. I was stunned. I knew something was wrong with Taylor! It just wasn’t him at all. I thought he was sick or his fishes died or something. This article explains it to me. It saddens me greatly to see AI’s treatment of Taylor and the rest of the contestants now and in the past with this kind of manipluation. All I ask is that they quit trying to influence the viewers and let the fans decide who OUR American Idol is. Normally, I appreciate Simon’s opinions but I do think he crosses the line with the “drunk” comments. An apology is due. I like Taylor enthusiam. I do want him to stop, and it appears that his fans don’t want him to stop either.
Thanks again for bringing this to the surface. As an AI fan for all 5 season… I think this will be my last season. I have always questioned the fairness of the show since the 2nd season. Now it is become really apparent to me that the winner is predetermined.
Anonymous Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:42 pm
Oh come on everybody! This hasn’t hurt Taylor, if anything it will just rally all of his fans. Unfortunately, it has probably hurt Kat a little, even though she never did anything wrong.
Charly Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:46 pm
SHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!
Kellie is the best!
marcia Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:48 pm
I find that he is sufficiently clearly that the production of the program is supporting Chris and Kat. In the week where Kellie left a voting on who was postado in the site of the Enews would leave. In this voting the names of Kat and Chris did not consist. Why this?
Tab Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 8:53 pm
Taylor may have the most devoted fans like Clay, but he doesn’t have the most fans. He does not appeal to a variety of ages. He can not sing a variety of songs. He should not win. “Vote For The Worst” has it right. People seem to love or hate Taylor. If Taylor fans say they won’t watch AI anymore if he loses, that’s crazy. If he loses, it’s because other people got more votes. I thought Clay should have won, but it didn’t keep me from watching AI. Taylor is no Clay. Clay has talent and charisma. Elliot probably has the most talent but little charisma. Katherine has both. Chris has both. Paris has lots of talent but does not have a fan base. Unless something major happens, Chris and Katherine will be in the finals. They deserve it . Taylor doesn’t.
Joanne Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:02 pm
I am a most avid fan of American Idol and enjoy the competition very much. I believe that the judges have tarnished the show this season. Simon from the auditions on has had maybe two good words for the truly full package on the show, Taylor Hicks. I love Chris’ talent but it is so obvious that the judges want Chris in the finals and they give him more leeway than any past or present contestant…I have always valued and agreed with most of Simon’s comments but apologizing to Kat was uncalled for and unprecidented, Asking Taylor if he was drunk was insulting and out of line and should have drawn a sincere apology. Taylor has poised himself with class and high standards. The song choice being changed for Taylor was unfair should have been noted rather than critized. I am really disappointed in the judges this year from their childish antics to insults and on to letting us know ahead of time who they want to win. And one more thing bothers me…since when do they announce who the biggest vote getters are. Please…its getting cheesy on idol.
mona norton Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:04 pm
I am sick to death of what they are doing to Taylor Hicks…every week…I have never missed watching American Idol but after what they are doing to Taylor..Unless it stops , I will never again watch the show after this year…..I also thought it was a set up with Clay and Ruben..
mary ann Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:09 pm
Here in Nevada it has been said on numerous starions regarding the judges wanting Chris to win and trying to persuade America to vote for him rather than the other contestants.

I feel Taylor and all the other contestants should pick THERE own songs and not the judges.

The male vocal coach Dorian has stated on Idol Extra that if the contestants pick a song that fits them the judges say it wrong and that if they pick one to please the judges, it is wrong so there is no winning.

It is no wonder why my female favorite Kelly was voted off. She could not please them and she was a ball of nerves. And the same with Ace.

Taylor will be just fine. We are just waiting for his cd’s to be recorded so we can buy them.

If he does not win than that is fine too, because than he can record his kind of cd, NOT there’s.
Patty Capetol Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:09 pm
I am mystified by the producers’ odd behavior towards the genial Mr. Hicks. It’s obvious that millions of people have responded to his soulful style on a visceral level; why not these dumbo producers? Everywhere on the web, national and international fan clubs have sprung up as well as websites devoted soley to his music. Even on the official AI website, the message board for Taylor Hicks remains more than twice as active as that for any other contestant. Both the helpful Rob Stewart and the miserable David Foster seemed extremely impressed by him. Myself, I’m no starry-eyed little fan chick. I’m a tough, middle-aged lady who has divorced two husbands (both musicians) and who knows a little bit about the music business. And I cannot for the life of me figure out why producers who say they want to make money are often the last to recognize a star (the Beatles, Tim McGraw, and so many others were all turned down multiple times before catching a break). Producers, listen to the people like you’re supposed to and stop picking on Taylor Hicks!! And Simon Cowell, boy band types and young starlets aren’t the only people you should have eyes to see…
Ann Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:11 pm
Thank you for this very informative post. The Soul Patrol has known that Taylor has been unfairly treated by the judges, especially Simon, and I believe Taylor’s back is up now. There’s been talk circulating that he is going to just be himself this week, no matter what AI says. That will be the best news any Hicks fan could hear. I am certainly looking forward to Tuesday’s show. I believe he deserves, and should get, 3 apologies- one for the 2 drunk comments…one for making him select who he thought the top 3 would be…and one for making him change songs just a day or two before performance. He has never spoken up in defense of himself, though I know he wanted to. He’s been a perfect gentleman through all this. Nothing would make me & the rest of the Soul Patrol happier to see him go all the way. He is amazing, but he will be a BIG star whether he wins AI or not.
TB Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:11 pm
If any one has the chance, they should listen to Taylor’s original music. He wrote and produced these songs. He has an amazing talent. I would love to see Taylor win American Idol. But if he doesn’t, I’m sure with all the positive reviews he has received from the guests on the show, there is a producer out there waiting for him. Maybe even a producer who would be as restraining as Simon Cowell. Would I like to see Taylor win American Idol? MOST CERTAINLY. But if he doesn’t, we’ll still support him and look forward to the cds and concerts he is SURE to have in the future.
susie q Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:23 pm
Taylor is being treated unfairly by AI, because they are going to have to market him for a year after the show if he wins. Although he has a large fan base, he is ultimately less marketable among young people than Kat and Chris. And young people spend the most time and money on music. I don’t,however, think Simon “accused” Taylor of being drunk. It was a flip little question, meant as a joke, although it was in bad taste, and embarrassed Taylor in front of everyone after singing and dancing his heart out. The real problem is in sparing praise for TAylor from Simon, the judge with the most “sway” with the public, and in the song change. Poor Taylor, it must ber stressful for him, and he can’t say anything. The fans he’s made, including myself, will stay with him for the long haul, regardless of the Idol outcome.
fran Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:29 pm
We love Taylor. We have never watched AI before this year, but we happened to see Taylor’s audition, and that was it. Now we watch every week and will do so until the end. And then we will not watch it again. No one has mentioned the week where they forced Taylor to pick the group with the highest number of votes. What a position to put him in - And then this week again having him change his song.
It is clear to us that Taylor has a kind heart, is a totally dedicated music lover, and has talent beyond belief. Our prayers are with you Taylor, we will vote our fingers off for you.
shelli Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:33 pm
There is no question that Taylor deserves an apology from Simon for the “are you drunk” comment. I doubt he will get it though. The producers should not allow performers to be belittled and berated. It does appear that Taylor has not been treated fairly and the fact that he was forced to change his song one day before the competition is appalling. The producers probably don’t know how to handle Taylor’s huge fan base. They need to put a stop to what is becoming a tarnished competition. Being a fan of Taylor Hicks, of course I want him to win, but even moreso I would like the competition to be fair, which I do not feel it has been. Taylor will be successful regardless of the outcome of the show because he truly has talent.
Pat (Birmingham, AL) Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:47 pm
I think alot of fans have commented to exactly what I’m feeling this year about AI. It seems the manipulation is soo obvious it’s disgusting. I love Taylor and his wonderful personality and soulful voice. His hometown fans like myself know the kind of performer he is. He puts his whole heart and soul into every performance and to see AI do what they have done is terrible. The last minute song changes, the nasty judges comments and even the “reining” him in from dancing and being himself. I thought AI was a competition to find the best undiscovered talent in America and the American public votes for that person..Apparantly AI feels America doesn’t know talent like they do..well to all the producers of AI..I recall another AI finalist that changed things on AI and that was another southern boy like our Taylor..Bo is doing very well and as Our Taylor loves music and performing. I think the AI producers need to look at what America wants not what they think we want.. This manipulation has got to stop because it creates a show that loses it’s credibility if this keeps happening. Let Taylor be who he wants to be..AI needs performers like Taylor to remind them there are other kinds of stars besides the Barbie and Ken dolls AI prefers. I understand about the marketability factor but what about the fairness factor..AI has not given Taylor that at all. I really feel Taylor does need the apologies for the drunk comments and all the other harsh things that have been said. He’s the genuine article and deserves to be in the spotlight and win this thing. The fans love him, Hollywood loves him, Guest artists loved him maybe AI needs to take a hint from all that and just let Taylor Be Taylor. Thanks for Listening..The Soul Patrolman is the real deal let him be that. Soul Patrol all the Way!!! Pat is a Proud Member of Taylor’s Hometown Soul Patrol!!
Billie B Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 9:54 pm
Let me state first off, YES, I am a Taylor Hicks fan, having said that I definately agree that AI’s treatment of Taylor has been unfair and biased. I feel that they (AI) push and mold ALL the contestants too much. This is supposed to be about raw talent that the viewing public chooses. We KNOW these guys aren’t polished, they aren;t supposed to be! Irregardless if Taylor wins this, it will be my last season. I have watched every season and their interference with the contestants gets more and more heavy-handed with each show. I thank them for giving me the opportunity to ‘discover’ Taylor Hicks, but I don’t enjoy watching these kids get mauled by the so-called experts. I will however follow what I feel is just the beginning of Taylor Hicks rise to stardom.
DeDe Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:06 pm
Thanks for letting the public know about the unfair treatment that Taylor has recieved. I actually like the other 4 singers. They all have talent. But that just it….. they are “singers.” Taylor is a incredible entertainer. What AI has tried to do to him is so horrible. They have attempted to suck and life, joy, and yes the “soul” from one of the most original entertainers that I have seen in years. They are such idiots that they can not recognize incredible originality when they are presented with such a gift. That’s part of the problem. Because Simon didn’t want TH originally his ego cannot stand for him to win. They have manipulated everything possible to hurt TH. The lighting on him last week was horrible. It brought emphasis on the sadness in TH’s face. He is not stupid. He has to know by now that they are trying to get rid of him by these manipulations. Yet because of his contract he cannot say anything to defend himself. When CHris had porblems with the ‘Walk the line” cover, they let him go on Tv and talk about it. Kat gets an apology. But with TH it is one snide comment after another. Simon can’t say something good without interjecting some critism. The bias is very obvious. On the AI forums they deleted almost 100,000 ( yes that is one hundred thousand)of the posts to Taylor’s folder to make it look like the general folder had more posts than TH. It didn’t work. Within a week his fans had made up the difference and passed the the gen info folder total again. No other contestant has close to as many posts. You would think that AI would realized that somebody who generates that much interest would be a good business investment. I really have mixed emotions about the thoughts of Taylor winning. It is not because of his talent but because I am afraid they will do to him what they did to BO. Bo was made to sing very pop sounding songs on his CD. While he did a great job on them thay do not have as much heart and soul as his original work. Before Bo last year I had never been interested in AI. If they continue to manipulate this season’s competition, I will not watch again. It has been sad to watch the joy of music disappear from TH’s face. It is disgusting what AI has tried to do!
Pat (Birmingham, AL) Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:09 pm
I wanted to add just a few things to my above comment..I have nothing against Chris, Kat, Elliot or Paris. All are very talented performers that deserve to be where they are. To come even into the Top 12 out of 100,000 people is an accomplishment. But, the fairness aspect is not here. Marcia had some good points, 19 Entertainment is out to make money and Kat and Chris are more marketable and will appeal to younger audiences but I do disagree with one comment Taylor does have both Talent and Charisma as well. I think Taylor deserves to be in the finals also but I don’t think AI will let that happen. I think it’s a matter of taste..some will like Chris and his Rock Roots, some will like Kat and her looks and talent, while others love Taylor’s Soulful voice and personality The Soul Patrol will vote every week for Taylor. I guess we shall see..Taylor will always be a winner no matter what happens..I’ll buy any CD he puts out and see his concerts. Our Soul Patrolman is the Best!
Pat is a Proud Member of the Birmingham Soul Patrol !!
gigo Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:18 pm
marcia, what were you trying to say?
Gypsee Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:23 pm
American Idol has shown itself to be the fraud everyone suspected it was. Since it can not fix votes, ir now seeks to demean and insult the only real talent this season has seen. Taylor Hicks is a performer through and through, and a dedicated musician who DOES want his voice heard….a lesser man would have quit long ago in the face of such OBVIOUS prejudice and bias against him. TAYLOR, WE LOVE YOU! YOU ARE THE NUMBER IDOL and AI and its judges are corrupt. I will never watch this show again after this season…I can’t support any show which treats its contestants with such disrespect.
Anonymous Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:26 pm
Well, Taylor certainly has his fan base.
Judybr Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:32 pm
Also, don’t forget they required Taylor to choose sides on last week’s show - having him choose which group of three he thought had the lowest number of votes. I believe AI did this precisely to turn some voters against him. It very well may have worked, if you look at the negative feedback Taylor was getting on the AI site afterwards. I believe some people mistook his embarrassment and discomfort as arrogance. Taylor has been a class act through this entire competition, usually laughing off the insults. I have noticed lately he is not laughing and that twinkle is not in his eyes like it used to be. I am convinced that the AI folks saw him practice “Tenderness” and decided there was no way in H*LL they were going to allow him to bring the house down with that song. They are determined to have Chris as their idol. I also firmly believe they underestimate the Soul Patrol and short of rigging the vote, they need to get used to having a gorgeous, gray-haired, young man with a heart of gold as their idol, because we are determined to make it happen!
karu Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:33 pm
Taylor Hicks is Simon’s living nightmere. There is a site called Dialidol.com which measures busy signals on the different contestants lines and then shows you whose line was busyiest longest. TAYLOR was #1 and miss kate was was number 3 or 4. The site correctly picked that Kelly and Paris were in the bottom 2. but it had Taylor first with Chris second. I am thinking that Taylor is placing a lot higher than they are letting on. If Simon gets the contract of the winner, then i hope he taylor doesnt win, because he deserves better. Having said all that my favorite is Chris, but i hate to see them take it away from taylor if he really is getting the most votes.
Pat (Birmingham, AL) Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:35 pm
I wanted to make a final comment concerning what has been stated that Taylor Fans Are Whinning..I don’t believe that’s the case..I think we are just stating the obvious. I have said I feel all the remaining Idols have talent but I don’t see the rude and back handed comments that are made to the rest like they have to Taylor..I see nothing wrong with Standing up for Taylor Since he can’t his fans wll do it for him.. If the same thing was happening to any of the others I would be doing the same thing but I feel it’s so obvious how the mistreatment is going on. I don’t think Simom would have apologized to Kat if her fans didn’t say anything. I said I wouldn’t watch AI again after last yr. I was and still am a Huge BO Bice fan and felt he should have won but that didn’t happen and I still am supporting him almost a yr after Season 4 and will continue to support Bo..I will do the same for Taylor no matter what happens. I was a big fan of Taylor’s before he went on Idol and will continue to be a fan of his..I just want him to be himself and just keep doing what he loves best..Music and Performing. Pat is a Proud Member of the Birmingham Soul Patrol!!
Josephine Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:49 pm
I do not know how AI is not responding to our outrage at the UNFAIR treatment of Taylor Hicks. I have been an avid watcher of AI since the beginning and although they have shown signs of unfairness, never, never has it been so obvious and so cruel. There are many different opinions on this, but I believe they DO NOT WANT Taylor to win and in Simons’s own words in an MSNBC interview a while back he said,”I have a horrible feeling that America is going to vote Taylor to win”. HORRIBLE FEELING?????, those words told me right there and then that he DID NOT want this so talented, humble man to win. I have NEVER been so disgusted over anything as I am with this. I look forward to this show every week only to have it dampered by Simon’s foul, unfair, prejudiced critiques about Taylor. I will do everything in my power to see that Taylor gets what he deserves, the American Idol winner 2006.
Crystal Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:49 pm
Thank you so much for writing this article. You covered all my thoughts and I am going to spread this link to everyone I know so we can get the word back to American Idol. They need to know we are demanding an apology NOW.
Jan B Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 10:52 pm
I’ve watched since the start. I was suspisious of the outcome between Rueben & Clay, but it wasn’t that big a deal (and Clay has done well). I’ve been furious this year! I’d always appreciated Simon’s comments until they got so mean-spirited towards Taylor. Simon has a big ego and doesn’t like to be wrong–he hasn’t liked Taylor since the start. Chris is ‘the chosen one’ this year and it’s obvious to all. We’re down to 5 talented people…why not let them compete on a level playing field and allow the favorite to win? BTW, notice that Taylor’s fans rarely put-down the other contestants. I’m tired of people criticising Elliott’s looks or saying Taylor sucks. I happen to think both those guys are wonderful and talented!
Kristi Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:05 pm
The top five are all successes. as fans we become very protective. I think those Soul Patrollers who have posted have a legitimate reason to voice their opinions. I 100% agree with an above post that states that AI either approve or disapprove when the songs are first brought to them. There is no reason to be pulling songs last minute from any of the contestants. These contestants have been exposed to the public due to AI. Like it or not, they wouldn’t be where they are without the show. Every contestant that has been enterviewed after being voted off appears to be very aware of that. I personally am a huge fan of Taylors. I admire him for being in the competition for the simple reason that he is a musician. He didn’t try out just to get his mug on TV but to be “heard”. He’ll get my votes every week because I respect what he does and would like to see his dreams come true. I also love “Under the Radar”.
Gail Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:08 pm
I think Not only should Taylor recieve a apology about the song changes but also from Simon for the two rude remarks “ARE YOU DRUNK” and ” BEING A DRUNK FATHER AT A WEDDING” … also Taylor needs to be treated fairly as do all the contestants … He is a wonderful singer and a real southern gentelman … thank you
wendy Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:10 pm
simon loves taylor - he looks at him and sees dollar signs!

but is afraid to praise him because he is afraid to lose him in the competition, everytime he says someone is good they leave, when he says someone is bad they stay.
Judi Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:20 pm
AI has taken an amazing, multi-talented performer that brought joy and smiles to fans and nearly beaten him to a pulp with their manipulation and negativity. I hope that do not destroy his spirit. AI might destroy what we loved in Taylor for now, but we know it is there in his heart and soul and if able it will resurface out from under the negative manipulation of AI.

Two song changes at the last minute with very little rehearsal time was bad enough - but both times the judges - who have to be in the know about the mandated song switches, had negative comments about ‘Taylor’s poor song choice, as if the decision were his own.

Then they compound it by bragging about demanding a song change for a bogus reason in an interview. That might have been a little nervy (and less than smart) on the part of AI, but they feel invincible.

Multiple comments about drunkenness, looking like someone’s dad, and barbs at his naturally gray hair had nothing remotely to do with critiquing a performance, but plenty to do with psychologic manipulation in the minds of impressionable viewers.

Less face time on TV and in the Ford commercials, less smoke and mirrors, lights, and prime spots in the line up, and poor background singing and wrong keys intros by the band are just very devious ways of manipulating the final performance of a contestant.

Does this stop The Soul Patrol from voting? Heck no, we vote two solid hours no matter what because we recognize that Taylor is the most talented individual to ever appear on AI. He has garnered Idol more new viewers than any other contestant. People are watching and voting that never have before because finally there is an entertainer that speaks to their soul.

However, the manipulation may cause cross-over voters to go in a direction other than Taylor. Many voters vote for each week’s performance. This may cost Taylor votes and ultimately the title of American Idol.

Even worse, it may cost him the possibility of getting lucrative offers from Top Labels and ultimately have a very negative effect on his future career. Apparently, not only does AI not want him, though for my life I can’t figure out why you wouldn’t want that talent and enthusiasm as your spokesman, but they want to be sure no one else wants him (or benefits financially from him) either.

The fans that have found Taylor once his voice ‘was heard’ will buy his CDs if they are sold underground. They will be his fans for life even if he never becomes American Idol or a Top-Of-The Charts Star. The one thing a large majority of his strong fan base won’t do? Support American Idol in the future. See if they have the biggest ratings ever again in the future. They owe at least half their rating increase this year to Taylor and new viewers watching because of this magnetism. Even voters not necessarily Taylor fans are loosing respect for AI because of their crass remarks, unfair treatment, and gross manipulation.

AI may not want Taylor - but they are losing more than a charismatic, talented young man - they are loosing their reputation - and that equals $$$$$. So keep it up guys, the older fans (I am 63) of the older contestants are not naive teeny boppers. I earn my own money and have a raging CD collection to rival any teenager I know, because I truly love music - and good musicians. The Soul Patrol loves Taylor and our respect is all for him rather than AI.

You’ll feel the pinch in the pocketbook soon enough and you deserve it. Try to give Taylor what he deserves: equal treatment with dignity and a fair shot to show the public all he can be - and a very, very BIG apology.
Stephanie Schultz-Bower Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:24 pm
I always thought American Idol as show made for those that could sing so that they would be noticed.
I am finding out that regardless of who actually wins, in the end it does not matter.
Well, I’m here to tell folks out there, that THIS time the winner WILL be Taylor Hicks.
It’s all about uniqueness….originality…the natural voice…not the trained voice, not for those who have relatives in “higher places”….
This year not only has that happened on the show, but AI and it’s judges are trying to bring the only decent singer down….Taylor Hicks.
The man is awesome. America and Taylors Fans WANT CHANGE.
We don’t need another pop singer!
We’ve no use for the next country singer, nor do we want to hear another singer sound alike in the rock industry.
A Change is gonna come! Even if I have to march my TEXAS butt on the show myself to let them know how serious the “soul patrollers” are!
JUST ONCE, AI, JUST ONCE let America choose who stays and who goes.
Last but not least? If other contestants can do what they want to get their votes, Taylor certainly deserves the chance!
Regarless of what AI thinks America wants!
It’s time to get back to DECENT music!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHOOO TAYLOR YOU ROCK, SOUL PATROL is ON THE BAND WAGON!

TSP
admin- “theofficialsoulpatrol.com”
TKSEAN Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:25 pm
Were do I Begin? This is the first Year i’ve watched Idol beyong the city auditions. Why because there are bad singers,and singers who actually can sing, but always try to sing someone elses songs to sound like them. To me it’s like American Kareokee not idol. Then in walks Taylor Hicks and performes! I thought Wow this guy is good and theres just somthing about him that makes you want more. You allow this guy to bring in somthing new somthing unique somthing refreshing! Something that AI has never ever seen and may likely never see again. Week after week your produces,judges,and staff try and take his originality, his natural born talent to feel the music, his non mainstream personna and tone him down so others with less talent and far less stage presence can at least have some sort of chance of keeping up with the new pathways Taylor Hicks is bringing to the 21 century. How does Idiol expect to stay on the air another 5 years when a talented performer shows up and is shunned because he or she is not acting the way the previous 5 year, same old, same old been done, beat to death image of what they think people want! For a company that relishes in success and prides itself on discovering talents like Kelly Clarkson, you guys arn’t to bright! Take a look at what you have on your stage every Tuesday performing! A man with a true passion for performing that cares more about pleasing his audience than how many dollars he can rake in by being backed by Idiol! They obviously have no clue the fan base were talking about! young children, teens, middle age, old age, men and women both!And fans way beyound the American borders!Try opening up your phonelines world-wide Cause Taylor has Them! Tell me which Idiol in the last 5 years had a huge following hitting each of these catagories? Your right none! no comparison! and the way you treat someone like this is beyond unaceptable! Would you blame the guy for walking? no! But like the rareness of his musical ability ability! he has morals and values and honour which has become a nearly obsolete these days. Yes Taylor wants to win but at this point I believe it’s more about pleasing the increadible fan base that has backed him from day one. Instead of trying to teach Taylor somthing about performing you should sit back and learn from him what it’s like to be a good human being! Keep going the way your going and there will not be an American Idiol because nobody will want to watch the cruelness and mistreatment you impose upon good people,and the impartiality you show for those who happen to be just a little different but are trying to share thier passion of music and performing! with the World. Shame on you AI
lassie Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:38 pm
Face it…Taylor just isn’t that good. When he isn’t dancing his voice sounds average.

Face the reality!!!
RAV Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:49 pm
Thank you for writing the article.

Simon’s Drunk comment still irks me. Nigel’s excuse? Plain wrong, and very telling.
Rose Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:51 pm
It sickens me to see what AI and TPTB have done to Taylor. He’s the reason that this 54 year old mom/grandma tunes in to this show, the one I look forward to hearing & seeing perform each week. He truly is talented, fun, unique, (and yeah, maybe a little “quirky”), but that’s WHAT his appeal is. He is genuine, he is truly a part of his music, it’s IN him. He’s something DIFFERENT than the normal cookie-cutter variety you see. He’s a class-act, and truly a “southern gentleman”. Who else would be able to graciously deal with the RUDE comments and treatment he’s received week after week. From the rumors, though, it’s said that he’s done with trying to please AI, because he knows it will never happen, no matter what he does anyway. The rumor is, that this next week, we’ll see the REAL Taylor again - the one that we fell in love with from the very beginning. I, for one, can’t wait. And another thing, Taylor, your loyal fans love you no matter WHAT happens on this show in the weeks remaining. In fact, you DON’T need AI anyway to be successful. You have ALREADY proven yourself. I have purchased already, and will continue to buy your music no matter what.
PepperDog Says:
April 29th, 2006 at 11:54 pm
It is quote obvious that Taylor Hicks is being sabotaged by the AI producers. Why? Because when allowed to sing the kind of songs he excels at, he always upstages the competitors that the producers have chosen to promote in the competition. Anyone who thinks that this competition is on the up-and-up after this week’s revelations is kidding themselves….
Moa Imchen Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:00 am
I think viewers should be sincere in our comments. Taylor was one of my favorites during the audition. But now, as the competition is nearing the final stage, it is time that we have to pick the best among the bests. And most importantly, it depends a lot of the type of songs. Just for example, on Rod Steward’s night, I was expecting a huge from Taylor because he’s got a voice that should be able to sing Rod Steward’s songs. But he didn’t nail it that night. It is good that Taylor has made a record of not going down to bottom three. But that doesn’t reflect that he is the best among the remaining 5. It is just that he has a huge fan base. In the end, the two contestants that will fight for the Idol place will be Katharine & Chris. But one big relief, he is not going home next week. It is either Paris or Elliott.
Judy Trueblood Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:05 am
Taylor is very unique and a breath of fresh air to the music that has been playing for years now. He touches me and I would buy anything he put out. Idol has been very unfair to him and they should announce to the public that in his defense his song choice was changed thus giving him an unfair advantage. Idol is definitely pushes for Chris and has been since the beginning. Maybe Taylor doesn’t need to be under Idol’s thumb; he’s better than that. He has enough fan base at this point to go anywhere he wanted to go.
Danielle Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:53 am
Andrea Bocelli wouldnt sing an Otis Redding Song..yet..he’d sing Bryan Adams? If that’s the excuse they gave for making Taylor change his song, it’s complete and utter crap. If their goal is to not have Taylor win, they’re going about it the wrong way..because all this controversy does is spur the Soul Patrol on to vote even harder.
TH_Rocks Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:01 am
I’ve been a Taylor fan from the beginning and this is the first year I have ever been inspired to vote for an AI contestant. Taylor has the talent, charisma, and drive that’s needed to win big - over every other contestant. It’s too bad that he keeps getting the short end of the stick. The reason for this latest song switch is bogus, I seriously doubt Andre would ever sing the song Chris sang. However, I will continually support Taylor and his career. This WILL be the last season I watch AI.
Carol Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:11 am
WOW…this is AI2 all over again.

I never watched AI-1 but started with AI2. The pimping for the judges favorite began on AI2, was very obvious in AI3 and 4 and now it seems like Chris is TCO this year. You know the fog, lights, guitars etc. It has been very obvious how Simon feels about Taylor. Simon was on a TV show and when asks about the top singers on AI, Simon said Chris/Kellie and Taylor and I am afraid alot of people are voting for him. That should tell everyone how he feels. Yes, I also feel Taylor should get an apology also. I like him very much and you can feel the joy when he sings…but…it doesn’t really matter as I believe there is a disclaimer somewhere that says…AI has the right to put in whoever they want. So you can vote and vote but in the end..they decide.
Sandra Jean Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:34 am
There is not much to add to the above posts,we all know Taylor has been insulted,and mistreated since the LV try outs,Simon insulted him even then saying he was not Idol material and should not be in the spot light,but singing in the back ground,even telling Taylor that Randy and Paula would never put him through to Hollywood.That was HIS hope.Thank goodness they did not listen to Simon.I have not heard any other contestant criticized for the clothes they wore,their dancing,singing,hair(has Simon never seen gray hair before?)not choosing the right song,not being true to oneself,what does this man want??Poor Taylor can not do one thing right.I believe the only reason Simon told him on that one occassion it was ‘magic’ was because that was after he had ask him if he was drunk,and they got so many letters and calls objecting to it,he had to say something nice.Taylor Hicks is the most unique contestant to come along,not to mention his awesome talent,in fact he is too good for AI.I can only say what ever the outcome,we will be there to support you Taylor.The other contestants may win and they may obtain riches beyond belief,but they will never have SOUL and thats what is so beautiful about Taylor.I admire him for his humble,good mannered nature,he could have defended himself many times,or sassed back to Simon like Kevin or Katherine did,but he stood there and took it like the gentleman he is.This will be the first time I have watched AI,I was flipping thru channels when I heard this soulful voice singing Sam Cooke and I was hooked,but this will also be the last time I watch, when Taylor is gone so am I. Taylor,stay strong,stand tall,trust in God and know you are loved by millions.Soul Patrol!!
igothemcpheever Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:51 am
i think taylor iz going home in the top 3!!! the finale two iz going to be kat and chris, and i (w/ a billion of other katharine mcphee fans) no that kat will take home the title of the next american idol!!! she ahs the hole package, shez absoulutely stunninly beautiful, the most talented singer (by far) in this compotition, and she deserves to win because she iz the best person alive loaded w/ miles of awsum personality and a fun loving heart!!! she deserves to win!!! chris deserves to get in the finale but only to take the 2nd position!!! i luv u kathariine mcphee for ever no matter wut happends!! and i hope sumhow (if u dont get #1 (which i HIGHLEY doubt)that u would that not descourage u to make a CD!!! i need a CD from u!! u make me want to wake up in the morning to think of u and upsess over american idol so much that i annoy everyone around me, so PLEAZ make a CD, i luv u sooooooooo much!!!
SunnyLoves Soul Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:52 am
I have enjoyed reading all the comments and overall love to see all the love and support for Taylor, he truly deserves it. He is a unique, talented, complete entertainer. AI and 19E owe Hicks for much this season - record high ratings for one, as well as the fact he brings creedence to what the show was originally billed to do - discover new and raw talent. I was floored that Kat was openly apologized to last week - that they did not really hear her well; yet Hicks can be told he looks ‘like a drunk Dad at a wedding’, asked, “are you drunk?” to name two insults consistantly handed out by Slimon and not one smidge of apology. Word was out about Hicks’ taking offense at the ‘are you drunk’ comment and why, surely Slimon got wind of it. Supposedly the judges gave Kat the apology because of e.mails, phone calls or whatever. That being said,if Soul Patrollers speak out in defense of treatment, rather, mistreatment of Hicks, it’s not whining it’s being a fan.

Regarding ‘lassie’ in the above posts - I was reminded of a childhood movie, “Lassie, go home.”

Vote Soul Patrol!

“American Idol”; Got Soul?
Donna Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:16 am
WOW! What can I say that hasnt already been said but this. I think American Idol has finally crossed the line from being a respected show to the “Jerry Springer” of Reality TV. They really HAD a nice thing going on but this year they’ve tweaked it a little to much. They’ve crossed the line. I agree with the vast majority of posters above that it is just sickening this year to witness whats taken place with Taylor Hicks. Fox and 19 Entertainment need to sit down at their executive table and have a meeting Donald Trump style. I think its high time Nigel and Simon are FIRED!
Raniya Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:32 am
I think Taylor Hicks is a great singer and appeal tothe public a lot, the song changing must have been unfair for him but i havent seen the judges play any particular favorites with any of the contestants. Infact Taylor had got praised several times by the judges and the “judges favorites” kat and Chris have been critisized more than once too. Overall, i believe AI is a fair show. And only the best will win.
Nancy Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:52 am
I don’t know how many posts I’ve read where people, like me, have said they didn’t watch American Idol before this year but do now because of Taylor Hicks! I have never watched the show past the inital auditions and have never voted, but now I vote the full two hours…why? because finally there is someone on that is worth voting for! Why do you think each week Ryan says how there are more votes now than ever before? Because of Taylor Hicks! He has done more for your show than anyone else! So quit cheating him and bashing him!! you should be thanking him!!!
Genie Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:04 am
Dee said: “They never apologised to Taylor calling him “drunk”, but to Katherine they apologised about her singing, because they got complaints. I thought the year of Clay Aiken was obvious when they pushed for Reuben, but I have to say, never have I seen such deliberate manipulation for a contestant as this years push for Chris. It sickens me.”
–
Actually, the AI folks did very similar sabotage to Clay in AI2 as they’re doing to Taylor (and others) this year. Prime example: When the top 3 had to sing a “random choice” song, Clay’s “hat” included the song “Vincent” - a slow ballad with tons of words, no repeated lyrics, etc. - & TPTB added an extra 20-30 sec. to Clay’s arrangement an hour or two before the show. They informed the live audience of that, but not the TV audience. And the judges all criticised Clay for “forgetting the lyrics” when he missed a cue early on and had to cover (which he did). Taylor’s demeanor last Tues. reminded me a lot of Clays during the “Vincident” - the way you’d probably look if you were FUMING inside but trying your best to focus on both the mechanics and the interpretation of your song.
That was just one example, but, yes, they use “sabotage lighting” (e.g. the flashlight-under-the-chin thing), unflattering camera angles, judges dissing your “song choice” when it WASN’T your choice, arbitrarily calling something “karaoke” or “lounge act” or “cabaret” without explanation, or Simon simply calling a performance “horrible” or “ridicuous” even when the audience and the other 2 judges loved it.

Taylor is clearly getting a megadose of such manipulations this season, but they have done it blatantly in other seasons as well.
Barb Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:05 am
I am a Clay Aiken fan who loves Taylor. That should answer your question of how awful I think the show is treating Taylor!!!
sheliae Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:02 am
i am so glad to see this coming to the forefront. i am heartsick to see such scandalous behavior on the part of ai ptb on national tv. i am personally insulted that they think we do not see behind their manipulative behavior toward taylor. from incredibly bad lighting,too loud orchestra,last minute song changes and generally disrespectful comments and behavior toward taylor,they are not even trying to hide their plan to usurp him in this competition. by the way taylors demographic(all ages,all walks of life)certainly buy more music and are more loyal to their favorites than the teenyboppers as stated in an above post. we put our money where our mouth is and simone and ai better realize who they really need to aim their marketing efforts at.
marilyn Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:15 am
regarding comments by igothemcpheever:this is about taylor hicks. i think you need to post elsewhere if you are trying to contact kat about making a cd for you. you are really lost and taking up valuable space.at least i think that is what you were trying to say as i cannot make much of it out due to typos.
ray Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:18 am
I see someone above mentioned the lighting last week for Taylor. It was spooky. Another thing I have noticed they seldom show the fans signs for Taylor when he is finished, unlike the others, the cameramen do not focus on it, like he has no fans. All the subtle manipulations add up to one hug sabotage.
Faye Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:40 am
Personally, I find Taylor Hicks to be an exciting performer full of heart and soul and passion and talent. I’ll buy his CD’s, go to his concerts and VOTE like crazy on Tuesday nights. He’s the one who stole my heart during the audtions and he is the only reason I am watching AI. Taylor will go on to be enormously successful in the future no matter what. I am just sorry to see him go through this painful process.
What is AI up to with Taylor ? God only knows what is in the minds of those media moguls. I suppose whatever will generate the most dollars for them regarless of what it does to the contestants.
I don’t want to bash any of the other contestants or shout foul or whine. I want a level playing field where each performer is allowed to express themselves in song and style.
I do not find AI or the judges to be fair. One defintion states: ” A judge is one capable of making rational, dispassionate, and wise decisions”. Unfortunately, I find most of our judges comments pointless and AI in general to be manipulative.
I believe it is true that AI is in business to make money and the show is for entertainment and of course they manipulate the system to get the most marketable winner. If the public is casting all the votes, wouldn’t that say who is the most likely to be the most marketable ? I guess what they are really saying is that the public is stupid and must be told who is good or bad.
Regardless, in the meantime I am going to watch as long as Taylor is on the show, turn off the sound so I don’t have to listen to the judges and try to ignore all of the rest of the crap.
mike Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:02 am
How come he also gets the least face time in the Ford commercials.
Dolores Ulrich Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:02 am
This is a great article. I have been an AI fan now since the 3rd season, but personally this is the first year that I think the top 5 are really talented. Taylor Hicks is my favorite not because he has grey hair; not because he spaz dances; but because when I close my eyes and listen to him, he sounds the best to me. I can listen to him all day long (and I have actually while at work) and I don’t tire of him. Even on his bad days, he has this soulful voice that I think is just the bees knees!
Do I think AI is being unfair? Perhaps, but the media is always known for blowing things out of proportion. But I will continue to vote for him because I think he truly deserves to win. The fact that he’s NEVER been in the bottom 2 or 3 is proof positive that his fans (aka The Soul Patrol) really want Taylor to see that confetti drop during the final show!
Rami Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:26 am
I don’t understand why everyone is so up in arms about this, it is clear that Taylor has not given his best performances in the last couple of weeks and if he is truly a star then a change in song shouldn’t really affect his performance. I don’t think anyone is trying to sabotage him, I am not his biggest fan but I do like him when he puts his heart into his performances which last week he simply didn;’t do that. I personally find his mannerisims very put-on and fake, and I can never imagine buying his records, but I can see why a lot of people like his style.

Its the public that vote for Taylor NOT the judges and clearly they have kept him in week after week so where is this suppsoed ’sabotage’. Just because he didn’t get the top two votes this week doesn’t mean there is a conspiracy.
Anonymous Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:39 am
taylor fans disgust me
if taylor couldnt give the song change any justice, then his talent must be so limited.. bleccccchhhh..
Debbi Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:24 am
TY for letting more people know about how AI tries to manipulate the outcome. Sadly most of the general public will never know about this. All of the singers that are left have talent. I am not rooting aainst any of them. I want a fair competition though. I am from Virginia so naturally I am pulling for Elliot as well as Taylor.

How does AI try to manipulate things?Where should I start? Last minute song changes with arbitrary reasons are used to sabotage performers they do not want to win. They did it to Lisa the week she left. Thay have done it to others in the past also. They have done it to Taylor at least twice this year.

Bad lighting and camera angles are used also. They used a low angle butt shot of Mandisa in jeans to make her look bad. She is a big person but I am interested in her beautitful face and big beautiful voice not her body. Give me a break! When someone is singing you are not interested in looking at their butt. Taylor’s lighting was awful last week. Contrast that with Chris who always seems to get special backrounds.

It is obvious who they want to win. When Chris had a PR problem with the “Walk the Line” cover they gave him TV time to try to rapair the damage. I actually like Chris. He seems like a good person. He is not as good as Bo but they had their opportunity last year and Simon was pimping Carrie then. I like her too. But I don’t like the way things are manipulated.

Simon was on TV (Rita Cosby) and said he had a horrible feeling that Taylor would win. His ridiculous attacks against Taylor’s appearance and calling him drunk several times are further examples. It’s not Taylor that is acting drunk but Paula!!!!

They never show any of Taylor’s signs in the audience. Its like they don’t want to show how many fans he has.

He has close to half a million posts on his AI forum folder even though they deleted almost 100,000 posts. You could any put any two of the other contestants total of posts together and they wouldn’t match Taylors.

AI is so stupid that they don’t realize what an original talent they have. This is the only season that I have not missed a show and it is because of Taylor. When he is gone, so am I and lots of other fans too.
SoulFanGranny Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:39 am
Another way that AI manipulates is through those car ads. I notice, particularly in the latest one, that Taylor always gets a lot less on-camera attention than some others (ie Chris & Katharine). AI are so obvious in what they’re doing - if they think we don’t notice, they underestimate the intelligence of the general public.
soulwoman Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:06 am
Thank you for publishing this article.All Taylors fans have known for the duration he has been treated wrongly by Simon and AI.They think Chris will sell more recordings!! Where do they think the teeny-boppers get their money? Not from this grandma!but if Taylor recorded the alphabet song or row- row -row your boat,that cd will be in our collection.Can’t for the life of me figure why Simon is so transfixed on Taylors gray hair,he never has mentioned Chris’ bald head or Aces fly away locks.Just seems to focus negatively on Taylor.It’s time it stops now.Taylor Hicks is one in a million,his talent and ability to reach people’s hearts and souls is something we have not seen since Elvis first started in the business.Stop the special treatment and pimping and give this man among children his due.
Thank you for allowing me the space to express my opinion.
Michael Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:11 am
Taylor is not my personal favorite this year, but for the few posters on here saying he can’t sing, ARE YOU CRAZY? I almost never watch the show but download the audio and listen to each performance. Taking that is consideration, I really can’t tell who has better stage presents, what they are wearing, who can dance, etc… Just listening… Taylor in my opinion has the 2nd best male vocal. It has a different and rich sound and with the exception of the other night, I have never heard a flat note. Even if he looks “drunk” he doesn’t sound like it. I would definately buy his CD. I think I am now going to have to watch the show and see what all the fuss is about with Taylor. Maybe I will be cry foul myself.
barneyvp Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:13 am
I never voted AI before this year and it never held my interest like it has this year. I think the talent pool has been deep and I give all of them kudos for their individual abilities. I don’t need to trash one contestant to support another. I wish I could say the judges were as fair sitting in their chairs as I am sitting in mine. Whether or not it’s true (and I happen to believe it is), the perception is a certain bias against Taylor exists. I hear that across the board from people I know, whether they are a Taylor fan or not. If their was an apology owed Katherine last week, then there was also one owed to Taylor. I hope someone has the class to step up this week and make it………it’s long overdue……it’s that simple.
toyracer Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:15 am
Finally, main-stream media is picking up this subject, and one can only hope that it is not a case of too little too late. Fans of Taylor Hicks have been protesting the treatment they see as unfair for weeks, with very valid reasons for doing so. The two last-minute song changes are the most obvious of reasons, but it does not stop there. The outright attacks on his character are totally uncalled for; twice the word “drunk” has been used by a judge when delivering a critique. In the first instance, Taylor was likened to a drunk, in the second instance he was rhetorically asked if he actually was drunk while performing on stage. In both cases, no apology was offered, even though there was a tremendous outcry from fans of Taylor, and from other fans as well. Many people found the “Are you drunk?” accusation to be totally out of line, but nothing was ever said about it by AI. Yet this very week the producers of AI deem it fit to stage an elaborate production of an apology for a contestant who was critiqued as not being an equal of Whitney Houston.

As has been pointed out by others, Taylor has twice been forced to change a song he had practised for days, with frivolous reasons given for each change. After the first change, a judge actually critcized Taylor for sounding as if he had just picked the song, while being fully aware that that was exactly what had happened.

There are simply too many other examples to cite as to why fans of Taylor feel as if there is an organized effort underway to hinder his performances. Taylor is the only contestant to have actual (and painful) mircophone feedback during a live performance. Fans wonder if the sound mixing engineer was asleep while Taylor was on stage at the time, for an error like that is simply unacceptable as the professional level. Some fans wonder, with good reason, why Taylor has never sang last on the show since the Final 12 has started, while another contestant has been given that prime spot twice.

The critiques from the judges also show an obvious bias against Taylor. Randy Jackson’s comments are so predictable that they have now gone past the stage of being laughable. The words “not the right song choice for you for me” have been used by Randy when critiquing Taylor no less than four times. And Simon Cowell’s critiques border on rudness and outright slander.

In all of this, fans of Taylor Hicks would just like to see their favorite have an even chance when performing. Is that really too much to ask for?
Joan Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:17 am
I’ve always thought ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ is a romantic song, and Taylor would have done a wonderful job. I like both Taylor and Elliott. Hope they are in the top 2.
Kathleen Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:36 am
I don’t think any of the songs done by the other contestants were songs that Andrea Bocelli would sing. Taylor has been treated unfairly throughout this competition. Taylor has such a large fan base because he is unique not the same old cookie cutter image of all the entertainers that are out there today. He is someone that will go far in the business and not be a one hit wonder. AI needs to let the perfomers do what is best for them not what AI wants so they can push who they want to win. That is why we watch so we have a say in who we consider the best all around entertainer. Let Taylor be Taylor that is what his fans want.
TaylorSucks Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:44 am
You people are completely ridiculous. Taylor is not the best and he really can’t even sing that well. He is nice but there is no way America would support him if he won. For the people that are mad that Simon called him drunk get over it, it was just a comment because of Taylor’s odd dancing. To the person named taylorfan you are just plain retarded if how could we possibly be scared of Taylor and by the way the person I wanted to win is out and she got the harshest criticism of all(Mandisa-she was called fat) which she is not.
Melisa Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 9:32 am
To those of you saying Taylor sucks - can’t you see, this is not just about what they are doing to Taylor - it’s the PRINCIPLE! They shouldn’t do that to ANYONE. It should be up to America’s votes, not Nigel or the Judges.

As much as I am a Taylor fan (because of seeing him on this show), I am outraged that they would do that to ANYONE. If they did it to Chris, Paris, Katharine, or Elliot, I’d be just as mad. Fair is fair - no matter who it is.

If they are going to let one person bend the rules, they must let all of them. If they are going to use beautiful stage lighting for one singer, they need to give to all, etc. etc. etc.

I hope some of you Taylor-bashers get the point. You’d be just as pissed if they did it to your favorite. You SHOULD be pissed on principle alone that they would do it to anyone. THINK about it.
Mandra Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 9:36 am
Finally someone has spoken up about this whole thing. Taylor’s been getting unfair treatment from AI for quite a while it seems. I mean, when was the last time you heard Simon actually like his performance? I think it was “Levon” if I’m not mistaken, and that was a long time ago. The judges will apologize to Katharine, sure, because she’s the most marketable. She fits into the cookie cutter. So does Chris. Taylor, on the other hand, is the underdog. He doesn’t sell his music with sex appeal (like Katharine) and he doesn’t “refuse to compromise” (like Chris). He just tries his damndest to do his best and then the judges throw verbal tomatoes at him like, “Are you drunk!?” or “Just not feelin’ it, dawg.” What I don’t understand is that the judges ramble endlessly on how the contestants should make the song their own, then when Taylor does it, he gets nothing but negative feedback. Or recently with the sudden song changes and whatnot: I don’t think “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls fits the love song theme either and it was on the list for the contestants to choose from, wasn’t it? It’s more of a whiny angsty little ballad more than a love song. There’s also a lot of controversy going on right now between some fans that think that the show’s been choosing songs to fit their most marketable performers, Chris and Katharine. Think about it, all of the themes thusfar have been great for them; they’re having a field day. Lord knows Chris can do whatever the bloody heck he wants and the producers won’t tell him otherwise. The rest of the contestants don’t have that freedom. The themed challenges are the hardest, I think, because the contestants are forced to sing in a style that’s different from what they’re used to. Yeah, it will expand their limits and push them to do better, but in the end, being a song-writer and performer doesn’t mean you do something you don’t want to do. Taylor’s performances probably haven’t been up to par recently because the song choices aren’t ones that he would have chosen on his own. But with what’s going on on that show, they’ll probably only pick ones in favour of Katharine and Chris, because they fit the cookie cutter, they’ll sell with their looks, and they’re marketable, just like all the other temporary singers making money out there.
Linda Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 9:59 am
I am so happy that the media is picking this up too.

The judges are rude , mainly Simon, to all the contestants, thats what he gets paid for. The viewers and the contestants expect it and except it..HOWEVER… either Simon apologizes to each and every contestant or he doesn’t. Doing anything else is favortism period.

Voluntary song changes or not getting your song approved in the beginning are fine BUT forced changes, twice now, the day before a contestant has to go up on stage to compete is very slap hazzard and reeks of sabotage.
I feel that all the contestants need to be treated equally or its nothing more then a manipulative TV show going for what they “think” will get them the best ratings and make them money and forgeting that those ratings and that money comes from us the viewing public.

If they don’t straighten up and start being honest with the viewing public now, this year, they may still get high rating now but I can guarantee that the show will be dropped. Alienating your audience by playing them for a fool will cost American Idol more then they can imagine. Just look back at some old early game shows that were caught doing the same thing………
Edith Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 10:41 am
This show has been unfair since Season 1, they have predetermined their choice so they will do whatever it takes to hurt the others to get the winner they want. It was more than evident in Season 2 and 3. This is a reality show, Taylor is way too fair ahead of the others, and they are not looking for a Southern singer but a rocker, they have picked Chris and come hell or high water, OR THE SMALL PRINT that says they have a right to change the results. America has been taken for jerks for 5 Seasons. Yet we all keep going to them hoping that this year will be fair. It never will, and America Does Not Decided the winner the AI people and Simon Fuller do.

But once again the winner will probably not outsell the second or third place finisher, as I think this year they want a Katherine and Chris final, they want to take no chances.

And the worse part is they make more fan wars because of this.
Maureen Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:07 am
I could NOT believe that Simon apologized to Katharine about what he had said about her singing but NEVER apologized to Taylor for accusing him of being drunk! I don’t care who wins AI but I certainly would rather see more fairness on the show! Every week it becomes more and more obvious that certain people are favored to win.
laddie Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:19 am
damn, people, can’t you see the big picture? YOU’RE THE LAB RATS! AI is toying with you - they want taylor to win and they’re manipulating all of you and getting you all worked up so you’ll get mad enough to get off your duffs & vote for him!
Bonnie Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:32 am
For anyone out there who doesn’t see how this show is so rigged you need to regroup and watch closely. Chris will be the next American idol,thanks to the powers that be. They have made it crystal clear that they feel he is the most moldable one,and money is all that really talks at the end of the day. They’re not looking for someone who is real,they’re looking for a pinocchio,one that can be strung along,just like they’re doing with all the fans. Wake up people,this is reality tv,a show where you waste time voting and at the end of the day,it really doesn’t matter. They chose Chris from the get go,the rest are just there to make it look interesting. I can’t wait till the show ends and their little wannabe does nothing. He’s no Bo Bice AI,sorry,you picked the wrong guy. He’s more of a deer caught in the headlights. He’s got nothing but the AI. Mark my words,Chris is through and will get his little thrown,and day of glory,but Taylor will get the votes,and the publicity that Chris can only wish he got. That’s what happens when you hang on to the AI apron strings instead of being strong.
AI has definetely lost yet another viewer,ME. Once Taylor is gone,so am I.
Anonymous Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:36 am
For those of you who say Taylor doesn’t have a voice comparable to (much less better than) the remaining contestants, copy and listen to him on this link… Taylor’s voice is beautiful and very worthy of the Idol title and More(with his personality being just a big plus). Pick any one on this site and enjoy.
http://www.itsallboutlove.com/thaudio.htm
sfulghum Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:45 am
Being called a lounge singer is not a negative comment. I have seen and heard some VERY good so called lounge singers; much better than some of the so called stars on the charts today. Taylor should remain true to who he is and what got him there. Despite the comments on the show, Taylor will come out shining. He has a Michael McDonald style voice and look what Michael did.
unitooth Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:01 pm
The song that Chris sang and “Try a little tenderness” are the sang basic idea in a song so, why was it allowed for Chris? Not that Chris didn’t do a great job, he did. It is total bias just like the Ford commercials starring Chris. He drives the car, he plays the guitar…ect. Personally, I don’t care if Taylor wins or not, I’ll still love his music and singing just the same. It’s the obvious mistreatment that bothers all of us. There is absolutely no reason why ANYONE (including Kat), who should find out about a song change the day before they have to do it live. Nigel, either you are bias or you are a very poor producer. It’s really too bad, AI was a fun show to watch but, there’s plenty of others.
HAPPY Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:14 pm
WHY DOES SIMPLE SIMON HATE TAYLOR HICKS? MAYBE HE ANOTHER AGENDA.
MB Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:14 pm
Taylor has been at a disadvantage since the audition process. He is an audience favorite (and should be………..he is extremely charismatic, reminiscent of Joe Cocker in his vocals with a performance flair all his own). The producers do not like it when someone they originally thought would simply be entertaining for ratings, really shines. His performance during Queen week was simply outstanding. And THAT does not fit with the game plan of the show. (I was so happy to see Rod Stewart stand up for and speak out regarding this. How thick could the producers be to think that Brian May and Roger Taylor just might be close friends with Rod Stewart…..could I have a resounding “duh” on that one.) I personally would love to see a stand off between Taylor and Chris, it would be about time the show got it right and let the top two truly be the TOP two, and not fabricated to showcase someone they deem to be marketable in what is actually their own handicapped version of what they are poised to sell. It is the producers who are limited, not these two performers.
SANDY Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:20 pm
WHAT I’M SICK OF IS THE JUDGES CRITICIZING ONE FOR BEING ROBOTIC AND IN ALMOST THE SAME BREATH ACCUSE ANOTHER OF DANCING TOO MUCH. THOSE JUDGES ARE NOT CONSITENT AND OFFER NOTHING TO THE CONTESTANTS.
Bruce Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 12:37 pm
It is obvious Taylor has lots of fans, but so do Chris, Katherine, Paris,and Elliott, or they wouldn’t be here. Paris is the odds on favorite to leave this week and then things get interesting. What I don’t understand with Taylor fans is this: In the beginning, he was doing more Joe Cocker-wrenching his body and tilting his head, while clapping his hands. He did that for awhile but Taylor hasn’t done it for weeks, outside of Ryan asking him about it once. Taylor is more ‘calm’, for lack of a better word. My wife and I find this weird. Was it just an act to begin with, or did the producers tell him to straighten up, or did Taylor himself realize it may not be to his advantage to keep doing that, or maybe he is too nervous as the weeks go along. Whatever, he has not been doing this ‘trademark’ for weeks. This makes me think it was all an act in an attempt to be different cause his voice is not as superb as others. I like him but Chris and Kat are simply more vocal talented, although all three will be in Top 3.
leigh Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 1:09 pm
What about Crazy little thing called Love, the audience went wild, Randy loved it, Paula loved it, simon never bothered to turn his head around to watch when he went to the stands in the audience and then called it “ridiculous”. We, the public are not stupid, that was brilliant. Simon can try and manipulate as much as he wants, we know a good performance when we see it. His vocals, his presence on that song was SUPERB.
Taylor takes the brunt Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:07 pm
I agree AI is hard on Taylor and breaking his spirit. He is the kind of person that won’t talk back and will take what they dish out. He has too much invested now to walk off, and they know that, although that is exactly what AI deserves. Doesn’t AI realize how obvious it is to people how they are manipulating the vote now? Personally, I don’t think Kat or Chris has the personality it takes to represent AI down the road. Kat with a stiff smile, and Chris screaming hoarsely into the mic, but they sure aren’t entertaining. Why would AI peg them as top contenders? They’re forgettable, Taylor is not. Taylor emits soul and feeling and a strong sense of genuineness. Elliott is another genuine person who deserves some positive attention. I guess that threatens some people. Who is Simon to talk personality? I certainly prefer Elliott. Bottom line: many of the judges comments (esp. Simon) are cutting and rude, and serve no real purpose. Is that what they think makes a good show?

I typed in Fox television phone numbers in my browser and got a long page with AI contact info at the bottom. I plan on calling that number tomorrow.
rbrockie Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:33 pm
TAYLOR HICKS! Relax and Have Fun Out There This Week! Be yourself, and don’t let AI take away your true colors! I Love Ya, Taylor!
Jan Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 2:54 pm
I will never watch AI once Taylor is not on it. I mean ever. I will not watch the season finale if he is not there. I hate this show. I appreciate that they have put Taylor in the spotlight but this breaking of the spirit and completely unfair treatment and the sniping, crying of the judges is too painful for me endure ever again.

That being said… I have spent $500 in the last 3 months on live music and CDs. I own Under the Radar(TaylorÂ´s last CD). I own a Soul Patrol T-shirt. I belong to three Taylor Fan sites. I will fly to Birmingham to see Taylor play in his own digs with some of my friends. I have never in my entire life felt this way about any musical artist. Taylor has something special.
MamaDee Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:01 pm
I think the U.S. needs something these days to smile about and that is what Taylor brings to the table. I find myself enjoying music and his passion for what he does. We should all find a little of that within ourselves-AI needs to encourage Taylor’s message to America-not destroy it. It’s time to smile a little-not be screamed at by a Charlie Manson glare or an over-singing prima donna. Taylor truly makes things happy for a little while when he is on stage & should be commended for his individuality-not punished. He’s awesome!
Pat (Birmingham, AL) Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:17 pm
I have to make a comment to the person named Taylorsucks…I don’t really think you needed to be that harsh..I loved Mandisa too..I felt she left sooner than she should have..I loved her voice and how classy of a lady she is. I felt Simon owed her a huge apology too. Taylor can sing and entertain but to say a fan of Taylor’s is retarded is just plain mean…Come on let’s be cordial here.True Taylor fans would not bash another contestant. Everyone who made it to the top 10 was deserving. Mandisa is an amazing woman and will go far in what she does..I loved her voice and style, in fact her and Taylor were the 2 I started voting for early on..But this goes to show how the show is manipulated. I just want it to be fair..If the Powers that Be have the ultimate decision then why are they asking america to vote..Without Taylor this far in the competition they wouldn’t be getting the ratings they are now..
Soul Patrol will always be behind Taylor. Pat (Proud Member of the Birmingham Soul Patrol!)
AI Fan Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:21 pm
I have been a Taylor Hicks Fan from back at the beginning of the audition period. Also Loved Lisa Tucker, but she went bye bye early.
Unfortunately, I think the competition is truly between Kartharine and Chris. Beauty vs The Beast. Either way this has been a fantastic season of American Idol and I can’t wait to see how it unfolds. Prediction of next to go home would be Paris Bennett, because her fan base is not as large as the other 5 finalist IMHO.
Pat (Birmingham, AL) Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:22 pm
To Jan…Amen sister!! Taylor is a very talented performer and person..I have seen Taylor live here too..member of as many fan site as you..Go and see his own band to support him so I totally understand. Whatever happens Taylor will have his fans for a long time to come..Just like Bo last yr and Taylor this yr..My Bama Boys are creating a stir on the show and it’s a good thing for Idol. They need performers like Taylor and Bo..They see $$$$ when that happens..
Pat (Proud Member of the Birmingham Soul Patrol)
Anonymous Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 3:49 pm
How can people be this excited about Taylor. He doesn’t have a good voice and he needs to learn how to dance. Plus he is what 28 29 and has a full head of gray hair. He will not do good in the business world cuz he doesn’t have the whole package or even a part of the package.
bamakat Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:45 pm
TH has been a complete gentleman in public about his life behind the scene on AI. His fans must follow his example. An apology is called for in this instance, but I do not believe one will be forthcoming.

There have been many rough spots for Tay to face and overcome these past weeks. I look forward to ‘Tays’day night. The past is completed. Tay was safe and is now in a position to rock the house for us, his fans, this week.

I love his music. If you don’t get Taylor’s music, don’t hate. Tay’s voice can be found in the heart and soul of the song.

Much thanks for this article Joe Reality. I don’t leave the comfort and safety of Grey Charles often.
gawk Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 4:57 pm
I have sit here and read everyone’s post. I agree with just about all of this. Please accept my thanks for giving a voice to what everyone feels-it was so wonderful to hear what everyone thinks and knows. I will be buying Taylors CD and I will pay to see him in concert regardless of what happens on AI. I use to enjoy AI until this year-my favorites (with the exception of Kelly-1st yr)have never won-Clay-Diane-Bo. Public does matter as Clay, Diane & Bo have proven.
Vicky McArthur Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:02 pm
I have felt AI/Simon/Nigel have been unfair to Taylor since day one. He is extremely talented, unique, AND MARKETABLE. If they are too stupid to see that then they are the ones who are going to lose in the end. Taylor has not had an even “playing field” since January! From lighting, to order of performance, to lighting,playing an instrument in skits/commercials as it makes an contestant look even better (Gee Chris got to do that 3x so far!) and the choosing sides fiasco which made him not look good at all..he wanted to stay in the middle but Nigel wouldnt let him according to posts of people who were at that taping. Then this SONG change fiasco. Taylor wouldve rocked that song! What is the difference between a Bryan Adams or Donny Hathaway song vs Otis love song? HELLO. I will never watch AI again. They finally get a totally unique awesome individual and are screwing it up!! He man is going to go on to become a legend and they’ll be sorry they messed with him! Whoo! Soul Patrol rocks!
Script7 Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:43 pm
I think it is important to note that even if you have a problem with Taylor’s fans protesting the unfair last min song changes. Taylor Hicks has handled it with grace and dignity and come out and given us great performances on a consistent basis. I think that is a testament to the character of the man.
TaylorFanForEver Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 5:56 pm
Here are some addresses for sending fan mail, cards, packages, etc. to Taylor Hicks….

Taylor Hicks
c/o American Idol
7800 Beverly Blvd.
Suite 251
Los Angeles, CA 90036

Taylor Hicks
c/o American Idol TV Show
Fox TV
2121 Avenue of the Stars
Los Angeles, CA 90067

Taylor Hicks
c/o American Idol
PO Box 900
Beverly Hills, CA 90213-0900

Taylor Hicks
C/O 19 Entertainment
American Idol-Stage 36/3rd Floor
CBS Studios
7800 Beverly BLVD.
LA, Calif. 90036

Send him tons of mail everybody. Let’s let him know we are thinking about him!
Objective Musician Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:18 pm
I am a musician. I see potential in all of the kids on the show. I do have to admit, however, that Taylor is the most original talent. And his original music is terrific. The show is not showing how truly great Taylor is. It’s amazing to me that people don’t see his amazing voice. The others are talented as well, but let’s be honest. They are all (barring Paris) a dime a dozen. Paris and Taylor are unique. Moreover, Taylor is a true musician who writes his own music (great music at that) and plays instruments. My vote is for Taylor. Sadly, though, one of the Plastic People will likely win because that’s how shallow many Americans are.
Objective Musician Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:21 pm
Also, let’s keep in perspective how difficult this competition has been for both Paris and Taylor. They don’t fit the mold that the others do. Forcing them to choose off the Idol song book is a slap in the face to these two truly unique singers. If they would let all of them do their own thing (Taylor would have blown Try a Little Tenderness out of the water), we’d truly see that Taylor is the most talented.
Himm2 Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:28 pm
Would American Idol generate as much interest without any judges comments? No. Each judge knows they are getting paid big bucks to make honest and/or sensational comments to excite the voting. Taylor has been very bland the last few weeks and I haven’t seen any improvement or uniqueness since the auditions. Kat was butchered by the judges unfairly and I’m glad they realized that when they saw that voters thought she deserved to be in the top two last week, their criticism wasn’t justified. Taylor does not deserve an apology for a simple flipant comment. It’s a different situation entirely.
Shawna Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:33 pm
Himm2 — I COMPLETELY disagree. Taylor was not his best last week, but ask yourself why. First of all, his song was pulled the DAY BEFORE. The worst part was the REASONING of the producers. They said, “We didn’t let Taylor sing ‘Try a Little Tenderness’ because Andrea Bocelli wouldn’t have sung it.” WHAT? That makes no sense! Bocelli wouldn’t sing Bryan Adams, Whitney Houston, or Barbra Streisand either! It was a LAME excuse and that is why Taylor deserves an apology. He probably felt a bit crushed that his favorite love song of all time had just been taken away from him for not being a classic love song. That is a joke. And why couldn’t the producers tell him on Friday when he made the song selection? They waited until Monday. It’s no wonder he phoned it in. He is too good for AI.
Selena Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:42 pm
I’ve been going off Taylor for a while now. And after reading these posts it has turned me off him completely. On standards week Paris had to change her song four times and still pulled out a great preformance out of the bag. Chris had to change his song choice the same day as Taylor this week and still gave a great performance. Taylor had the same situation as the other two and couldn’t rise to the occasion. Its as simple as that.
nuts4reality Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 7:49 pm
I think a big reason we heard an apology to Kat was because of viewers’ complaints about how she was treated. I wonder if the powers who be will get wind of this…..they do seem to always find out what the fans are talking about, and I hope they do this time. I also hope, more than anything, that Taylor fans will be voting like crazy on Tuesday!!
TB Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:15 pm
This is crazy. Taylor has not been mistreated or criticized anymore than the other contestants. They have all received negative comments. I think most of the comments have been true except Katherine’s comments last week. I have read comments here about how the judges are pushing for Katherine to get in the finals. They were much harsher and more critical of her than Taylor. They had a right to call and protest. I thought just a few weeks ago they were overly complimentory of Taylor. Taylor did look sort of drunk when Simon made that comment. Prior to that in the early shows, my daughter asked it he had seizures or some medical problem. Taylor sang poorly with no emotion last week. Quit blaming it on the song change. He showed no passion or emotion unlike Elliot, Chris, Paris, and Katherine. He was not good. How can Taylor fans be so blinded and wrong? If it was my favorite who messed up like that, I hope I wouldn’t blame it on everyone but him/her. I think Taylor should’ve and could’ve sang “Just Once” wonderfully. I thought he was great during practice. If all the Taylor fans still think Taylor is the best and most talented finalist left after last week’s performance, then I can now understand how OJ was found innocent. People see and hear what they want to. I hope Chris wins but I think all of the remaining finalists have the talent to win except for Taylor.
Barbie Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 8:54 pm
I am sorry I can not leave this on a negative note. It is ok for people to write editors and speak up…this is what our country was founded on. Taylor has done so much already. Uniting people from all races, ages, nationalities. We love the guy and when someone you love is hurt…you do whatever you can to help them out. If that is called whining…then add me to the list. GOD BLESS YOU TAY! This is what rock & roll is all about!
taylorfanforever Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 9:52 pm
RE: Posted by: TB |

‘Taylor did look sort of drunk when Simon made that comment. Prior to that in the early shows, my daughter asked it he had seizures or some medical problem.’

You obviously have never observed very many intoxicated individuals. More importantly, you’re daughter, regardless of her age, is leading much too sheltered a life. She can’t be too young if she used the term ’seizures. If she is older, she has a somewhat limited view of truly handicapped individuals.

I am, based on the implausibility of these two assumptions, assuming instead that these two particular statements were either fabricated to make a (weak) point or written as a (bad) joke.
Michelle Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 9:58 pm
Excellent article. I and several of my co-workers who discuss the show at the water cooler have decided that we will find something more entertaining and “real” to watch next year.
Nini Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 10:19 pm
It’s Clay Aiken all over again, they did the same thing to Clay with “Starry Night”, they asked Clay to make it it longer one hour before the show, he messed up, forgot the added part of the lyrics and got creamed by the judges. Another similarity is that Clay was never at the bottom, and Nigel admitted to this recently, and look what happened, he lost to Ruben???? Anyways, maybe, like Clay, Taylor would be better off loosing, Clay is certainly doing better and can do what he likes since he is no longer under contract with AI. I’m not a huge fan of Taylor’s, but he’s really growing on me, he’s really talented. I wish him luck.
JS Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 10:30 pm
Perhaps an apology is in order for Taylor with regard to the “are you drunk” comment. I think Taylor’s fans are rediculous, though. They know that his talent is not in the same league as Chris or Katharine or Paris or Elliot. So now they are trying to create some controversy because he lacks the talent to win the competition. Taylor is okay, but just okay. There are so many more talented singers out there. He’s just okay. There is nothing brilliant about what he can do. Sure, he seems like a nice guy. But he’s boring and very average.
SANDY Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 10:42 pm
CHRIS FANS ARE VULGAR AND CRUDE. PUNKS.
yana Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 10:49 pm
oh yeah. it’s really obvious that they dont want taylor to win this competition. i, myself, was shocked to hear that chris and katharine were the top two when all this while, taylor has been in the top spot all along. wow. but there’s no doubt that taylor will still get in the top three anyway.
Geoff Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:06 pm
Taylor is not good enough to be in the final five. His last two performances were just simply bad. I hope he gets booted out this week.
Carly Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:14 pm
Theres no prove that Taylor has always been top of the votes. All thats known is that hes never been bottom 3. That doesn’t mean that hes always been top. And SANDY please dont be rude to the others fan bases. That just makes the rest of Taylors fans look bad.
SANDY Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:28 pm
ROD STEWART, BARRY MANILOW, STEVIE WONDER AND DAVID FOSTER ALL COMMENTED ON WHAT AN EXCELLENT SINGER TAYLOR IS. CHRIS FANS ARE NOTHING BUT PUNKS. I CAN’T BELIEVE AMERICAN IDOL EVEN WANTS A PUNK THAT CARRIES A CHAIN IN HIS BACK POCKET TO BE AN IDOL. WHAT THE HECK IS WRONG WITH THEM AND THE AMERICANS WHO ARE VOTING FOR A PUNK?
SANDY Says:
April 30th, 2006 at 11:29 pm
ON SECOND THOUGHT IF CHRIS WINS, I WILL BE LAUGHING MY BUTT OFF BECAUSE HE WILL LOOK LIKE A BIG PANSY TO THE OTHER PUNKS WHO DO THE HEAVY METAL THING. WHAT A DOPE. HIS FANS ARE JUST AS STUPID TOO.
Trina Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:36 am
SANDY as a follow Taylor fan please stop being rude about Chris’ fans. Its just making us Soul Patrollers and Taylor himself look bad.
Blimey Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:47 am
There is no way that Taylor deserves the treatment he has received from American Idol. His fans surpass the other contestants by a mile and so does his talent. American Idol, we have your number. You are going to lose more viewers than you can imagine. You have messed with us for the last time.
susieQ Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:51 am
Who on here wants to bet that Chris or Katharine doesn’t sell anymore cd’s than Bo and that Taylor outsells even Carrie? American Idol people, you are not the brightest bulb in the package when it comes to manipulation. You are dealing with Americans dudes. We got you figured out.
Shawna Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 1:07 am
One thing I have noticed is that people who find Taylor “average” or “not that great” haven’t even taken the time to LISTEN to him sing. His original music is terrific. People are so shallow. They judge him based on his appearance. It’s sad, really. I’m not going to criticize Chris or Kat, who I think are a dime a dozen, but as a singer and performer myself, I am disappointed in the true ignorance that Americans show for good, original performers. Taylor is new and refreshing. It’s unfortunate this show doesn’t let him show it. Sadly, Paris is a victim of similar treatment. Both Taylor and Paris are DIFFERENT. They are so unique and so talented. The show is set up for pop performances, not soul or blues. But the producers don’t want unique. They want AI robots that look and sound just like everyone that’s out there now. Chris is the chosen male and Kat is the chosen female. The ignorant producers consider them more marketable (which is erroneous). Even Simon can’t get it right. From the beginning, he assumed (based on Taylor’s appearance) that Taylor wouldn’t make it to the finals. He’s woken up. HELLLLOOO! What a shocker. Not all Americans are as shallow as he is. Unfortunately, some are. But those of us who recognize true talent know that Taylor has “it.”
Shawna Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 1:14 am
Some people don’t feel Taylor has been treated unfairly. Well, consider the following:

– He has yet to sing last in the final 12; all the remaining have, including Daughtry TWICE.

– He was forced to choose sides on results nights a couple weeks ago. This, I’m sure, cost him votes. Many people (including his fans) felt that was mean for him to do. People in the audience, however, say that the producers told him what to do (shake Chris’ hand and join the other group).

– Simon has been outright awful to him. “Drunk” comments aside, he can’t even give him a full compliment. In his “Trouble” performance, Simon said, “Quite liked the song, EXCELLENT vocal…but the styling is Clay Aiken.” In other performances, he tells him “Started karaoke, but then magic” or similar. He can’t just give him a compliment without it being backhanded.
TKSEAN Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 1:51 am
Yana,Barbie,shawna,Melissa crislip! i realize your not too bright! it’s o.k really! you base your opinions on looks not talent! in 20 years your still fantazizing about some celeb that would’nt look at you in a criminal line-up Taylor will have sold millions of cd’s from fans who are actually smart enough to recognize real talent!
hank Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:39 am
taylor, elliot
class acts…..
vote your fingers off to the bone 4 taylor….he’s unique
after this year i’m cold turkeying my american idol addiction……the producers went overboard….too bad…..
Sur Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:59 am
Taylor unique? JPL was doing the same stage act 2 seasons ago
Himm2 Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 5:54 am
Taylor outselling CD’s of the best AI performers? Give me a freakin’ break. He may be outselling them but it will be him out selling CDs personally in Lounges. If you like Taylor for his “crapping in his pants” moves that will never translate into non-visual CD sales. Many of our ears realize that his audio is just average. If he was forced to change songs at the last minute then AI should be scolded but maybe it’s Taylor that should apologize for his worsening performances.
El Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 7:53 am
Simon did the same thing to Clay Aiken. He said a lot of stuff that he should not have said. Mean spirited stuff. They added a verse to a song the day of the show and criticized him harshly for forgetting the words. On the finale night, Simon said to Clay “I think you’ve been a little off tonight” He said that after Clay blew the roof off the building with Bridge over Trouble Water!!!!!

Even though Rueben was flat on some occasions, that was never once mentioned. It was obvious from the start, who Simon wanted to win.

That being said, that is what makes American Idol the show that it is. Controversy!!!!!

Don’t get mad, just vote your fingers off. In the end….Clay was laughing all the way to the bank. The fans spoke. They support the person they like. The rest is history. They may be able to fix the results of the show, but they can not change the success of the person. If they are good…..they will have success anyway. In spite of AI….because of AI.
Angela Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 8:12 am
Look I could not see Andrea Boncelli singing Donny Hathaway myself.I’m from Mobile and his fanbase is huge here. Anyways all we have to now is continue to support him and vote.
Lenora Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 8:13 am
BOTTOM LINE….I tune in to WATCH TAYLOR and just can’t wait to see him and his talent and at this point the judges don’t make ANY difference anyway. They are goofy and VERY unprofessional anyway. Most of the Musical guests are great and a big help to the contestants, but the judges are getting “OLD”, boring and EXTREMELY goofy.
Ciji Dunne Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:03 am
Thank you for FINALLY addressing these issues regarding Taylor Hicks! Its been a long time in coming and the word needs to get out about this if American Idol should be seen as a “fair” competition. Taylor Hicks is one of the most versatile, talented and passionate performers AI has ever had and it seems like the producers/judges are “bucking” the system in giving Taylor a fair shot at the title. Its proving week after week that Taylor has a good shot at winning but every week he has to fight the battles. Why the AI producers etc. do not want to give Taylor a fair chance is beyond my knowledge. All I know is that Taylor is extremely marketable and that is being proven so its AI’s/record execs big money to lose!
howard Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:07 am
I found it incredible that Simon would ask if Taylor was drunk that was completely uncalled for. It is quite obvious that the people RCA have already selected who they want to give the recording contract to and if the showis fixed then it is not worth a dam. When and if Taylor is voted out I will tuning out for good. Last if no one is allowed to ever verify the votes then that tells me AI is allowed to cheat when it suits them.
Ciji Dunne Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:36 am
I have to laugh at the n’sayers in this group; what a joke you all are! And your grammer is just about 2nd grade material as well. Might want to count the negative comments regarding Taylor Hicks against the positive ones; case in point, Taylor Hicks should be the next American Idol hands down!
Sally Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:46 am
KUDOS TO YOU! FINALLY a site has taken a stance on what we have been in agreement for weeks. Thank you RTM. If only Nigel would have the backbone and conviction to do the right thing all would be good in the world. But we all know he won’t …..
Ciji Dunne Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 10:28 am
To the poster referred to as “TAB”; wake up and smell the soul … man you are in denial!
Roberta Tidwell Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 10:29 am
AI really makes me angry.This will be my second season to watch and possibly my last.I am not a young viewer - thrity something- and happen to enjoy the guys voices. I think it is pathetic that they continue to change songs on contestants at the last minute - what ever happend to raw talent and allowing people to entertain? Also, at least Simon had the courage to admit his wrong with Katharine - what about an apology to Mr. Hicks from Ryan and the producers in regards to placing Mr. Hicks in a position to judge which group was the top three - that was crappy as well. I am begining to think that while they want their ratings to go up they are pushing them down….Mr. Hicks is talented and I know of scores of people who have purchased his CD Under the Radar since he has been performing on AI - seems AI only wants a cookie cutter AI type - I think the guys should take over this season!
Jer Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 11:11 am
I am sad to see, given Taylor’s loving and sweet soul, that he is being treated the way that he is on the show. How unfortunate that even reality tv has to be overrun by people telling people how to act and what to do…..Shouldn’t it be called, “sort of reality tv”? Poor Taylor has been taking a lot of abuse the past few weeks, and by the look on his face, he is not very happy. Taylor is by far the best entertainer in the group, has an awesome voice with the purest soul up there. We are all getting a little sick of Chris’ scatchy, monotonous voice and his dark presence. I have not seen anyone with such a ominous aura in a long time. Perhaps his background should be checked into a little further. This boy is hiding a dark secret. As for McPhee….She is nice to look at, all right, and her voice is nice…..but I see a really jealous and vicious side to her….. Elliott is probably close to Taylor in pure souls. His voice is a piece of heaven. And his mother is a real sweetheart! Paris has the most nasal like, run together way of singing, that it is hard to listen to her sometimes…. and that plastered smile and minnie mouse voice of hers have to go! I think that Taylor and Elliott deserve to be the top two, with Taylor winning this competition…. And judges… namely Simon…. BE A MAN and apologize to Taylor before you lose your ratings and your show! Jer Pa.
Don Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 11:40 am
Ok well, I’m sorry that that happened to Taylor. They should have known when he first chose the original song that they didn’t like it and made him change. You don’t wait til the middle of the week because it takes time to really get a song in your body, mind, and voice. That being said, I think Taylor’s run will and should end this week. He has come a long way but I don’t see him being an American Idol. It’s either him or Katherine. They both had off nights last week. Paris, Chris, and Elliot are the three remaining best singers and they should awarded on wednesday night by being safe and moving on to the final four.
Ciji Dunne Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:00 pm
To JS: “Taylor’s Fans are ridiculous” …. A description of the word FAN = FANATIC, that is what we are: TAYLOR FANATICS! I suggest you go back to your favorite contestant and go start rooting for him/her….
Kate Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:02 pm
Does it really matter if Taylor wins or not? Most every one of the singing guests adore Taylor, as I do, and as most of America does. I think recording companies will be knocking on Taylor’s door, and calling his phone for his pure marketability. We all know that most of the “Idol” contestants go on to make an album, so it really doesn’t matter who wins anymore, does it? I watch the show because of Taylor, never watched an entire season before, maybe never will again. All I know is Tuesday nights roll around, and I’m excited to see what he’s going to do next. Who really cares if there is a conspiracy? Isn’t there always an alterior motive? It may be “reality TV” but it’s more askewed reality.
Cindy Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 12:15 pm
It is so refreshing to see others with a similar view. AI has been frustrating to watch. This is the first time we have religiously watched and voted on AI and will definately be the last. Taylor has been our favorite from day one, and the only one that hasn’t gotten on our nerves at one time or another. I hope he realizes how many people love him for the way he is. Let AI do what they do and see america lose interest fast. They treat the most adored performer like garbage and Ryan and the Judges are annoying and childish. I am just tired of them altogether.
kitti Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 1:52 pm
I love Taylor Hicks. Have since his audition. Can’t wait until this week. And, frankly, I could care less about this stupid show and whether or not he wins. I just want to see him in concert. I only care because Taylor really wants to win so I’m going to try and give him that by voting my butt off. **Three men and a finale!! WOOOOOOO**

Selena, no one has ever mentioned Chris changing his song on the same day as Taylor. Don’t make things up.

Bruce, it’s not an act. Taylor came out after last week’s performance and admitted that he had been trying to tone it down for the producers (who constantly tell him to tone it down). This week he has promised his fans a “mini-Taylor concert”, meaning he’s going to be himself again and stop trying to please everyone else.

TB, you made that up about your daughter. If you think that, then fine, but don’t try to convince me that Taylor’s SO crazy-looking, even a little girl thinks it. With music behind him, his dancing probably makes more sense to most children than it would to an older person such as yourself.

Sur, JPL is nowhere near on the same level as Taylor. You need to go back and relisten to his performances.

Himm2, if you can’t tell just by the amount of positive posts this article has gotten (on the same day it’s posted) that Taylor will have no problem selling CDs, you’ve got some serious denial issues.
Catherine Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 1:53 pm
Not for MANY years have I been this excited about a new artist, let alone one on AI. Taylor has shown true talent, spirit, charm and class throughout this entire “competition”! I call it that because that’s what AI purports to be yet their attempt at blatant manipulation of the American pulic is shameful. I know it’s just a TV show but they also say it’s America’s choice. They way they’re pimping other singers is wrong. Everyone should have the same chance to do their own thing and pick songs that work for them. This changing stuff at the last minute for obviously lame reasons is wrong beyond belief. It’s like they’re doing their best to sabotage him just so Simon’s ego will be saved. Simon, you said during Taylor’s audition that Randy and Paula would not put him through to the final 24 to be voted on by the people. Well, he’s there so let US, the buyers of CDs and concert tickets decide! Not the producers of the show who base their decisions on who THEY think is the easiest to package up and present to the public.
angie Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:14 pm
I hate how Taylor has been done on the show. He’s the most exciting thing American Idol has ever had on the show. I hate how Chris is being pushed on us It nauseates me. He is not as good as everyone thinks. No personality for one thing. He does absolutely nothing for me. He has a nice voice but they all have that. Taylor has it all and if Chris wins this competition,I know I will never watch this show again.
Don Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:34 pm
Taylor’s going home this week. It’s either him or Katherine.
Grace Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:44 pm
Don, you’re completely wrong. Paris or Elliott are going home (unfortunately).
Cindy Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 2:56 pm
I agree that if they were passing out apologies or
making “clarification” comments (Like when Chris covered someone elses cover of Walk the Like) that Taylor having to change is song the day before the competition should have been mentioned. Also, if it was SUCH a bad match, why did they wait so long to make him change?
Finally, I was clicking through a pay channel last Wednesday and there was a preview for The Bodyguard with Whitney singing the entire I Have Nothing song. I watched it then pulled up my recording of AI. Randy’s first comment was right on - Kat is NOT Whitney.
Grace Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 3:03 pm
Cindy — Kat is Kat. She is an okay singer, but not such a great performer. I thought the judges were unfair to her, though. I am somewhat glad they apologized, but highly ticked off that apologies haven’t been offered to other contestants when they were deserved. I am not at all an Ace fan, but the editing made it look like he had a tiff with Queen when it was the complete opposite. Similarly, Simon has been very rude to Taylor and has gotten away with it. I am just glad Taylor is a class act.
dancin sam Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 3:05 pm
In the last 4 years of American Idol I have never known of this many ppl across the US to fall so in love with one contestant…..TAYLOR HICKS has captured America from Hello! He is sexy, bright,witty, talented and sings with soul from the tip of his head to the bottom of his toes….The producers have played their last trick with him,,,After Taylor, I AM DONE WITH AI…..thank you for bringing me taylor and myself and co-workers will continue to support only HIM!!!!!!
Anonymous Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 3:14 pm
I guess because Taylor won’t appeal to Generation MTV, Simon feels the need to tear him down. It’s obvious that Simon feels he can make more money off of Katherine…than he could someone like Taylor. Katherine’s strong points are ballads. Torch singers like her are not in…not to mention, she’s a bit on the thick side.
kylovestaylor Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 3:54 pm
I realize several of the contestants have had to change their original song choices throughout season five. I do not know the reasons behind all of the changes, although
I know the reasons behind some of the changes. However, for
whatever reason, I do not believe it is fair to anyone. We have heard all season long, how important song choice is. If this is true, then â€˜the powers that beâ€™ need
to stop undermining the contestants.

It was very evident Taylor Hicks was upset last Tuesday. He had every right to be.
The song he had selected held special meaning to him. That particular song meant something to him. I know I would not have been able to muster any amount of enthusiasm if I had just had the â€˜wind knocked out of meâ€™. I know he would have
â€˜brought down the houseâ€™ with his performance. However, we can only imagine
how great it could have been since he was not allowed to perform that song.

Each and every one of the remaining contestants bring something unique
and different to this competition. A solid case for each one of the
contestants winning this competition could be made. They are all
great, but for different reasons.

However, if they are not allowed to select songs which showcase their
vocals and talents, then the playing field is not evenly matched, nor
is it a fair competition. Each contestant knows their strengths and
weaknesses. Each contestant knows what he or she is capable of and each
one is aware that they have it in them to â€˜shineâ€™ on stage.

At the end of the day, each one of them should be able to stand back
and â€˜pat themselves on the backâ€™ for a job well done. They have
come too far in this contest and worked too hard to be undermined
this late in this stage of the competition.

I truly felt sorry for Taylor last Tuesday. And, even if I wasnâ€™t
a fan of his, I would feel the exactly the same way.
My heart aches for him. He has breathed life into American Idol
and I honestly want him to be successful. I want them all to be successful.

He deserves to be treated with respect. He deserves to be treated
fairly. I donâ€™t believe he has. I donâ€™t understand why. He is
passionate. He is talented. He has charisma. He is genuine.
He is gorgeous. People who donâ€™t watch American Idol
know who he is. I have already purchased his independent CD
release and I will buy his next CD. I have heard his CD is selling well.

So, how can anyone say he is not marketable? He will be
if only he is given the chance.
DONNA Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 4:06 pm
THEY ALL READY KNOW WHO WILL GET
THE AI TITLE.THE SHOW IS FIXED… WE THE AMERICAN PEOPLE ARE JUST
FOR THE RATING ON FOX.TAYLOR SHOULD
TELL AI TO STICK THIS WHERE THE SUN
DON’T SHINE,HE IS MUCH BETTER…..
GOTAYLOR Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 4:53 pm
Taylor has been treated unfairly lately because he’s getting huge amounts of votes, and AI is scared of him winning. They know the teeny-boppers with no taste who buy most of the albums won’t go for him. They want Kat or Chris to win, because they’ll make more money, and everyone knows, it’s all about the money!
Also, notice that Simon is the only one who really rips Taylor, since he has the most to lose with him winning. Paula and Randy have liked Taylor from the start. The shows bias has been evident from the start. Hewever, the stunt they pulled on him last week was the final straw. When Taylor’s gone, I’m gone!!!!!
Lhai Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 5:07 pm
this is the best top 5 of all seasons all of them are talented and i can sense that Taylor and Chris will battle for the title of American idol this year…all of the remaining contestants are talented…Goodluck to all of you guys and God bless you…
lulu Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 5:35 pm
Thanks for the article. I had been talking with my daughter about these same things. AI’s behavior towards Taylor is obvious and shameful. Taylor has brought me much pleasure with his performances.
Karen Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 5:38 pm
I don’t know what problem the Powers that be at Idol may have with Taylor, but this time they are trying to push the wrong one. How may Pop singers can you promote and make people want to go out and buy their Cd’s. Taylor is unlike anything that AI has had on their show and he’s the most marketable one left. If they are pushing Chris what a big mistake. Chris does not compare to Bo Bice and I don’t see many running out to see or buy his CD. Bo has more personality, stage present than Chris. Katharine is talented but how many Katharine’s do we already see and hear. Taylor feels his music you can tell. What they are doing to him is destroying his spirit and that’s a shame!! Idol is trying to push the wrong one this year and they are making a BIG MISTAKE!!!! Don’t mess a a good thing. They could see their ratings drop fast is they do!
Carol Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 6:00 pm
They’ve done this before. Made Clay change his version of Vincent right before he went on, and that goofed him up and he forgot some words. But being the consummate pro he is, he pulled it off - but those damn judges had to point out that he messed up, altho most people didn’t even know or care! They screwed up Diane DiGarmo as well. They hand pick their winners. But they get it wrong…ala Ruben and Fantasia!! Going nowhere. And dissing the biggest star of all-Clay! They don’t have a clue!
Anonymous Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 6:14 pm
Taylor isn’t that great. His spastic dance moves are hilarious at times, but he doesnâ€™t have the potential to sell millions of records. He really needs to change his image if he wants to be taken seriously. Chris Billy goat Daughtry is brazenly overrated, and if the powers that be are pushing him to win they will be sorely disappointed in the end.
Tim Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 6:25 pm
Elliott has the voice and the magic to go all the way. Even radio has noticed his singing magic. Radio stations across the country started playing Elliott’s ‘A Song For You’ last week. TPTB had better notice the impact Elliott’s singing is to doing to America.
carol Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:50 pm
You know after reading everyone’s comment’s about AI’s treatment toward Taylor Hicks, is that all the judge’s care about is someone’s looks and not their talent. To alot of us he is a very talented and kind person.All that Katharine is,is another Kelli Clarkson,who is terrific,so why do we need another one? And Chris is good too but who needs another rock singer?? I think Taylor or Elliot should win.They are what an american idol should be.
carol Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 9:59 pm
Oh and another thing,I thought Taylor was totally hot singing “Just Once”. Who care’s what Simon thinks.
heather Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 10:36 pm
Can the AI judges say anything nice to anyone? All they do is CRITISIZE. If they do say something halfway nice, they have to throw in a backhanded insult. I’m sick of Simon “I hate country, God, anything Christian or Southern”, Paula “I’m so doped up I can’t even complete a thought”, and Randy “I can’t say anything original or worth saying. Taylor is the only reason I watch AI and when he is gone, so is my viewership!
Jeannette Says:
May 1st, 2006 at 11:22 pm
As a Clay Aiken fan from season 2, we know all about criticism and unfairness. Bottom line, the judges are trying to manipulate the vote - - especially Simon Cowell. It’s all about money and who they want to win, who they think will be the easiest ‘winner’ to promote - who will, in the end, make the most money for them. Hang in there Taylor Hicks fans and keep voting like crazy.
Charlotte Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 1:02 am
I agree with all of the above comments regarding the manipulation that has taken place on this year’s AI. However, having said that, have any of you written to the powers to be that this will be your last year watching? I have, and, they need to get hit where it hurts them - in the ratings and pocketbook. For those who think Taylor isn’t being treated fairly, you must have blinders on, and, was in your ears. Simon can’t even give him a compliment without a bash to go along with it. They are all about the money, so, we need to hit them where it hurts. I’m thoroughly convinced that Chris is TCO this year, but, not nearly as good as Bo. Some inside information has leaked that tons of press releases and promos have already been sent out to Fox tv stations about CHRIS. I will support Taylor’s career, but, will not give AI another look next season. Everyone needs to let TPTB know they have lost their support.
taylorfan Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 2:02 am
I absolutely love Taylor Hicks and I hope he wins American Idol. That’s my opinion, we all have the right to our opinions.

I just find some of the naysayers above so rude and uncivil. For instance, taylorsucks called me a retard. I feel so sorry for taylorsucks. Taylorsucks can’t make an intelligent conversation about his opinion or respect any one else’s so he/she attacks everyone personally. Perhaps if the naysayers could speak intelligently on why they have the opinion they do they might actually make a point or two. But, telling me I shouldn’t like Taylor Hicks because I’m a retard or any other personal insult just makes the naysayer look like a fool. I find taylorsucks and the other naysayers so very sad.
Taylorsucks you need therapy. Sorry, that’s MY opinion.

If you don’t like Taylor Hicks, don’t vote for him. I don’t know any of you and none of you know me. Insulting me will not change my opinion. I think Taylor Hicks is awesome and thanks to your negativity, I will devote myself to voting for him when I originally settled for a few votes in previous voting sessions. Taylor Hicks is the most interesting and unique. IN MY OPINION, he’s the best talent. Personally, I find Kat, Chris and Paris boring. I kind of like Elliott, but THAT’s MY OPINION. I will vote for Taylor. I will buy his cds and if he loses AI I will cease to watch the show, because I don’t like being played or manipulated. Actually, I think there should be a grassroots swelling of opinion that everyone should turn AI off as they treat the American public as dummies who can be easily manipulated. How disrespectful to their consumers. If you want to get mad, why don’t you get mad about that?

My opinion is exactly that, my opinion. Having one is my right. Personally attack me and I’ll just feel sorry for you. But, this is America. You have the right to be a fool as well as have an opinion.
taylorfan Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 2:03 am
I absolutely love Taylor Hicks and I hope he wins American Idol. That’s my opinion, we all have the right to our opinions.

I just find some of the naysayers above so rude and uncivil. For instance, taylorsucks called me a retard. I feel so sorry for taylorsucks. Taylorsucks can’t make an intelligent conversation about his opinion or respect any one else’s so he/she attacks everyone personally. Perhaps if the naysayers could speak intelligently on why they have the opinion they do they might actually make a point or two. But, telling me I shouldn’t like Taylor Hicks because I’m a retard or any other personal insult just makes the naysayer look like a fool. I find taylorsucks and the other naysayers so very sad.
Taylorsucks you need therapy. Sorry, that’s MY opinion.

If you don’t like Taylor Hicks, don’t vote for him. I don’t know any of you and none of you know me. Insulting me will not change my opinion. I think Taylor Hicks is awesome and thanks to your negativity, I will devote myself to voting for him when I originally settled for a few votes in previous voting sessions. Taylor Hicks is the most interesting and unique. IN MY OPINION, he’s the best talent. Personally, I find Kat, Chris and Paris boring. I kind of like Elliott, but THAT’s MY OPINION. I will vote for Taylor. I will buy his cds and if he loses AI I will cease to watch the show, because I don’t like being played or manipulated. Actually, I think there should be a grassroots swelling of opinion that everyone should turn AI off as they treat the American public as dummies who can be easily manipulated. How disrespectful to their consumers. If you want to get mad, why don’t you get mad about that?

My opinion is exactly that, my opinion. Having one is my right. Personally attack me and I’ll just feel sorry for you. But, this is America. You have the right to be a fool as well as have an opinion.
Christine Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 8:13 am
If you notice, there’s a revolving pimping job done with most contestants. I’d have to say that I haven’t seen any form of pimping done for Taylor which leaves me to wonder if they’re trying for the Cinderella story this year… give each of the other contestants a turn at the pimp and have the one unpimped contestant prove himself on his own. More bloody drama from the nasty brit.
Young at Heart Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 2:40 pm
I think the judges critized Katherine McPhee’s performance so she would get sympathy votes then only to turn around and apologize to her in front of the whole world to put her up on a pedestal. I personally am sick of her big bambi eyes and precotious looks. She sings really good and looks good and has chrisma but no one appeals to the majority like Taylor Hicks. This man is the “golden ticket” to American Idol and all future endeavors he may pursue. Go Taylor! ! !
real deal from mobile Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 2:59 pm
where can I get a copy of taylor hicks’ “under the radar”?
Aunt Edna Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:10 pm
http://www.lasersedgecd.com/hicks_taylor.html
LoveYouTaylor Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:11 pm
SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!! VOTE TAYLOR TONIGHT SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LoveYouTaylor Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:11 pm
SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!! VOTE TAYLOR TONIGHT SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LoveYouTaylor Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:11 pm
SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!! VOTE TAYLOR TONIGHT SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!! WOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!! SOUL PATROL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Anonymous Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:24 pm
American Idol is making a lot of people SICK this year. The stupidity of it all. The pimping of some contestants, ignoring others, Ryan & judges silly comments back and forth. There is nothing professional about it anymore. SIMON COWELL WENT FROM A PHIL DONAHUE TO A JERRY SPRINGER!!! That’s how the show went, thanks a lot to Simon.
Taylor has definitely been through the wringer with the show and Elliott has been ignored. I hope that the ratings drop dramatically and the producers will be forced to listen to viewers intake !!!
sara Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:27 pm
taylor is not the best singer but THAT WAS MEAN he DESERVES an apolagy
sara Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:28 pm
taylor is not the best singer but THAT WAS MEAN he DESERVES an apolagy
sara Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 4:28 pm
taylor is not the best singer but THAT WAS MEAN he DESERVES an apolagy
Michele Smith Says:
May 2nd, 2006 at 7:33 pm
I have watched American Idol every year since it started and I usually vote every week. I have come to the very sad conclusion that it’s all fixed. I think the producers and the network have already chosen who they want to win and none of our votes means anything. It’s a terrible thing to do to these kids who work so hard and sing their hearts out every week, while having to endure life away from their families. Simon is a pretty good judge of what’s good and what’s not, but he doesn’t have to be so nasty. Randy and Paula keep saying the same inane things every week. But thank goodness we won’t have two blonde country bombshell American Idols in a row!! Voters: Don’t listen to the judges — vote on who you think is the best!!
John Hagopian Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 8:26 am
Taylor Hicks is the only AI contestant that I would consider seeing in concert, and buying his recorded music. If he doesn’t fit the “mold”, it doesn’t matter. He has carisma, talent, and musically is the most accomplished. Get real AI. You may just blow this one if you don’t start behaving correctly.
Sarah Elizabeth McKinney Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 12:41 pm
Um, the reason Ryan said Chris and Kat got the highest votes…….is because Chris and Kat got the highest votes. lol. I’m sure of it, too, their lines were insanely busy that night. Taylor was probably 3rd, though, because if you’ll remember he was with Elliott, and they were the next highest.
taylor for pres Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 1:21 pm
Okay, a few points I wanted to make here.

First, the best singer is not always the best choice and the most marketable. Take Brittany Spears, not a great vocalist. There are thousands of girls her age that could sing a million times better..but she is half dressed on an album cover, not them.

Katherine is simply not a marketable, period. I have see older folks liking her judy garlandish voice and her possibly having an oldie recond…but she is not current or hip, she is a girl nextdoor type…she would need a total change of image. I think she can sing her butt off, no doubt that she is good. Would I buy her CD…never.

Chris is a singer that belongs in a band. If he wins, it will be a solo deal and that is not the right marketing with Chris.

Taylor is the most marketable and unique singer this year. He can crossover into soul, pop, country or just about anything. I do not see that with the others. Is he the best singer..not by a long shot..would I buy his CD…Hell yeah.
taylor takes the brunt Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 1:56 pm
I have seen two very obvious attempts at subliminal “pushes” for the fav’s, Chris and Kat. Just last night at the end of the show, when all the idols were lined up, the camera zooms in on three, Chris, Ryan and Kat. At that moment Ryan looks right and then left and announces “one” of these will be the winner, but one of who? The only idols visible were Chris and Kat. On the Ford commercial with the billboards, watch it back, and notice that when Chris and Kat’s billboards are shown, their voices are raised above the rest and very noticeable. I heard it somewhat on the “lost dog” commercial, but not near as much as the billboard one.
rtillery Says:
May 3rd, 2006 at 7:46 pm
Taylor has definitely received discriminatory treatment at the hands of the AI people.

I would like to see him win it, but he very well may be better off if he doesn’t.

The exposure that he has had on AI will carry over into his career long after the show isf over.

I would hate him to be locked into a contract doing the kind of music AI wants which obviously would not be Taylor’s kind of music.

I really thing Bo Bice was fortunate to be runner up. This was also true of Clay Aiken.

Winning everything on AI may not necessarily be winning everything.
taylor fan Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 2:38 am
The only reason I am watching AI so religiously this season is -Taylor Hicks! If AI can’t see what all of America sees so well, then they should dissapate the way so many shows before them have.
From day 1 Simon has had a bad attitude towards Taylor. Simon dosn’t ‘get it’!
The first time I saw Taylor, I was immediately reminded of what it must have been like to watch Elvis for the first time. Record companies can’t bottle that to slap on their latest fav cut cookie.
Simon has a very standardized drone expectation for a ‘fresh’new Idol. And he needs to apologize to Taylor for accusing him of drinking after Taylor worked so hard to give us such a wonderful performance.
If Taylor is not the next American Idol then I will never watch such a rigged show again.
Linda Bloom Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 11:10 am
SINCE THE RUBEN AND CLAY FIASCO I THOUGHT THE SHOW WAS FIXED. AND I STILL BELIEVE THERE IS SOMETHING FISHY GOING ON ITS TIME SOMEONE LOOKED INTO THIS. DO THEY USE AUDITORS TO CHECK THE VOTING? I DOUBT IT, BUT THE SHOULD.

LIDA BLOOM
Ed Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 12:14 pm
Who cares? Taylor Hicks is not a “Marketing” kind of guy! he’s a Wedding Singer! When you audition for a TV show, they keep the cast of characters that will make people watch the show. It’s almost the end and the biggest “Character” of them all needs to realize people fell in love with him because he’s different, but he can NOT sing worth a poop!
LMercer Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 1:16 pm
I was a Kelly Pickler fan but now have switched to Taylor Hicks. I have always liked him also. I hope he wins but feel the contest is manipulated by snide comments, song changes and meanness. Change the judges, I dislike them all, Randy calls women “Dudes”, Paula is clearly “a nut” and Simon is very, very mean.What happened to good old USA fairness and respect for the singers? Does the public really determine the winner? I wonder.
D Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 2:36 pm
i hope tht Katherine does not end up being the american idol cause i hate her!!! she iz soooooo irritatin!! Taylor rocks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sue Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 6:47 pm
As a loyal Taylor fan, I agree that the differential treatment on the show has had negative results for Taylor. However, I do realize that it is a television show, for entertainment only, and the players signed on freely. Most of the contestants are mature enough to handle it, and Taylor would not be happy with his fans causing an uproar in his behalf.
labelle Says:
May 4th, 2006 at 8:25 pm
I m not worried about Taylor,he dont need A.I.anymore,hes going to be huge anyway!
And if I read these backstagestories I only can tell,he dont deserve this kind of unfairness and misstreating,but unfortunitely thats the dark side of the showbusiness and he has to learn to deal with that and still doing his very best.Hope his very beautiful soul dont get consumed by a handfull of unprofessional coments like a completely out-of-line judge.
The last weeks he seems to be pretty unhappy and I miss the playfull,innocent,so very real and pure and not worrying,musicloving,soulful,beautiful Taylor we enjoyed in the first audicions.
May be,its not so bad if he gets voted off,so he can do his own soulthing(which will be amazing,Im definitely shure!!!)and dont has to finish in the claws of a recordproducer who dont even like him.
He has an enormous audience,nobody has so many fans and so much positive feed-back and not allways the A.I-Winner is the real star.
Hell make his way and we will hear a lot of him and his amazing person!
So dont worry,Soulpatroler,
he s on his way and nobody never ever can stop this man!!!
Beverly Says:
May 5th, 2006 at 10:32 am
I think that Taylor has done a wonderful job of remaining composed following some of the terrible reviews the judges have given him.

To me, the judges don’t seem to be judging this year. They throw out comments right and left, and they don’t seem to relate to the performances very well.

Taylor has done an outstanding job all season. I agree the “Just Once” song was kind of mixed-up, but after reading this column I know why. Poor Taylor!!!! I thought that song was kind of odd for him to choose.

Those Idol folks should be ashamed of themselves for hassling Taylor. He is a fresh breath of air on an otherwise lifeless show this season. He deserves to win, but if he doesn’t……just look at Clay Aiken. He has sold tons of CDs and has legions of fans.

The Soul Patrol will lift Taylor up, no matter what!!!

You are the man, Taylor!!

Nebraska loves you.
Amy Says:
May 6th, 2006 at 6:25 am
All I know is that thousands of people are voting for Taylor every week for the entire two hours of voting. I don’t think any of the other contestants have that kind of support. I’m sick to death of all the news items stating Chris will be the winner. Taylor has been in the number one spot on DialIdol EVERY week. The one week it was close was the week they stated Chris and Katherine had the highest number of votes. I definitely feel the show is trying to sway viewer’s to a Chris/Kat final.
Donna Mills Lane Says:
May 6th, 2006 at 10:06 pm
Stop mentioning that horrible pervert Clay Aiken!! Have you not read the papers and the accusations about him sleazing for gay sex on the internet???? That is NOT an American Idol and he should be run out of this country on a rail!! This guy said Clay preyed on him, had unsafe sex with him and then would not call him back! ANOTHER guy, a schoolteacher, had CAM pictures saying they are Clay and he is without a shirt and trying to seduce him for cheap gay sex!! HE IS DISGUSTING!! Idol should ban ANY mention of him from the show- this is a wholesome family show, it’s not about a sleazebag like CLAY AIKEN!!!!!
Susan in Pa Says:
May 7th, 2006 at 10:16 am
Mad does not even begin to describe it. When you watch Taylor perform with such joy, it is beyond all reasons why the FIRM behind AI don’t see that this a SUPERSTAR in the making. I have been watching AI since the beginning and I have never bothered to pick up the phone and vote. For Taylor I am on the cell phone for the whole two hours. The others are good but boring, I would never buy their CD’s. This is manipulation at it’s worst.
Darene Kahn Says:
May 7th, 2006 at 2:02 pm
I’m not a big TV watcher, but one show I will not miss is the “Taylor Hicks Show” on American Idol. I agree with all the earlier postings. I will purchase Taylor’s CD’s no matter the outcome of the AI, and not the others. Plus, I’m a middle aged Beatles generation music listener who can afford to buy what I like.
Dov Cohen Says:
May 7th, 2006 at 10:29 pm
I read about halfway through all of the comments on this board before the red sidelines got to my eyes and then decided to make my own post here. As others mentioned, I can say the same: after having watched AI since season 2, this is the ONLY year that I have voted for a contestant. It seems to me that AI did not realize their little “Pop Idol” clone was not going to always be about choosing a pop idol. It has become such an amazing show that now ANYBODY from ANY GENRE knows it is a ticket to stardom. So, it makes no sense why the producers dont get this. Either they are playing us now and Taylor really IS their choice and they just want to get us worked up, or they are completely blind and idiotic. The final two SHOULD be Taylor and Elliott (with a Taylor win) but it seems that it will at best be Taylor and Chris, at worst Chris and Katharine. I have lost my taste for AI and do not plan to watch after this season unless they publicly state their mistakes and intend to clean up their act. Simon was heard to say a few years back that AI is a great vehicle, and if it is done right, it could last for decades. It seems they have started screwing it up only 5 seasons in!!
Muldrake Says:
May 8th, 2006 at 10:24 am
Taylor is my favorite to win as well. I think that AI has been able to hold onto some of this country’s ‘older’ viewers for two reasons, Chris and Taylor.

We don’t need another Kelly Clarkson. There are tons of her out on the airwaves now. We certainly don’t need another Fantasia, one was more than enough, thank you!

What we need is a Taylor Hicks. Who cares what Simon thinks about what an ‘Idol’ is.

After watching Taylor perform, Play That Funky Music, I have to say that it was the best performance I’ve seen on AI since I started watching it in the second season.

He’s talented, he’s different, he appeals to young and old alike, and he is just what Simon does not want to see happen to AI. Bo came close last year, but not close enough.

I think kids and their parents would buy Taylor’s CD’s. He will have a huge following whether he wins this competition or not.

Drunk? Simon really needs to get his writers to give him some new material. Obviously, viewers aren’t listening since Taylor’s never been in the bottom 3. I think he’ll go all the way.

All of the remaining contestants are talented, but Taylor is talented and different. That’s what American Idol needs. That’s what America needs!

Go Soul Patrol!

Muldrake
Deanna Says:
May 8th, 2006 at 2:32 pm
Even though Taylor had to change his choice right before the performance, I thought he sang the song well. With the exception of Elliott, Taylor’s the best vocalist in the competition, IMHO.
anhonestresponse Says:
May 9th, 2006 at 4:16 am
Week after week it seems all you read is someone making excuses for Taylor Hicks. It is getting really old, even more old than his apppearance. Here’s the deal, if I close my eyes to block out his lounge singer antics and goofy dancing, he just sounds horrible. He misses notes in his lower register, where it shows him to be particularly weak and you can barely hear him, there’s little consistancy in his voice unless he’s screeching out some higher notes whch sounds more like a cross between growling and screaming. If I open my eyes to take in the performance I’m actually embarrassed for him, that’s when I know someone is bad. If I feel uncomfortable watching you then there’s something wrong.
There is nothing unique about him, he’s copying older soul singers with his voice and movement and not even doing a good job of it. In one number he was totally not even into the song he looked vacant and detached yet he still threw in a couple trademark twitches and it looked so forced, that’s when I realized he was a total fake. Just cause he yells soul patrol and tries to act the part doesn’t make him a soul singer, it just means you fans bought into this stage act hook line and sinker. Anyone who witnessed the Saturday Night Live spoof of the guy mocking Taylor should have been able to see that anyone can do the same thing and pull it off. That guy probably watched about an hours worth of footage and had it spot on, Taylor has been working on this act for years so it’s no wonder you all fell for it. Look, just because you want to believe he’s some original talent that’s fine, but don’t push him off on the rest of us who can clearly see and hear there is nothing special about him. We shouldn’t have to suffer through American Idol every week because some people bought into this fake and are too proud to admit he isn’t all that great. He’s a mediocre lounge act wno gets by each week because he has delusional fans who make multiple votes. And that’s the bottom line, Anyone can get the number of votes he has gotten if they had people countinuosly dialing the same phone number for two hours, and if any of his fans actually voted for him just once it would be painfully clear that The majority of voters do not think he is worthy of the top 5. I know the truth isn’t always what you want to hear but lets face it, on Tuesday nights the Taylor fanatics will speed dial in votes frantically for two hours because if they didn’t they would see he doesn’t stand a chance because he just isn’t that good and they can’t live without seeing their Tay Tay every week on AI. If you want to believe in him that’s fine but wait for an appearance at your local mall, don’t push him off on the rest of us who didn’t take the bait and buy into this fake. We shouldn’t have to suffer because you can’t see the obvious.
muldrake Says:
May 9th, 2006 at 9:16 am
In response to anhonestresponse:

Let me guess, you were a fan of Fantasia’s?
Becky Says:
May 9th, 2006 at 5:55 pm
I just stumbled upon this website and never knew people loved Taylor so much and for what reasons. I think he has alot of heart and soul, but he by no means has the best voice up there. Everyone voting for Taylor needs to start voting for Eliot since his voice is way better, he has a ton of heart, but ends up in the bottom all the time. Taylor has got to go this week. Simon says it like it is and I agreee with him about Taylor. All you people who are voting on charisma alone must have voted for George W, too. Just close your eyes and listen when he performs tonight. Yikes. The final three (without Taylor) will hopefully be one of the best top three to ever have been on AI. Hopefully.
Rebecca Says:
May 9th, 2006 at 10:57 pm
I totally agree that closing your eyes while an AI contestant is performing gives you a much better perspective on how well they’re singing. Taylor doesn’t come close to the vocal talent of Chris, Kat or Elliott if you really listen. Sorry Taylor fans but you need to look beyond his crazy antics and tune in to what you’ll hear on the radio. Unfortunately for the rest of us Taylor just may be the next AI due to his legion of fan club listeners . . . but we all know the best sounding singer doesn’t always win case in point Ruben and Fantasia. So unless you’re a diehard Taylor fan get ready for another disappointment . . .
Anonymous Says:
May 9th, 2006 at 11:50 pm
Simon’s remarks haven’t affected Taylor’s fan base. So not to worry.
Taylor is the most entertaining contestant this season, on top of having a great voice. I wish we could send song requests. I would love to hear Taylor sing “Could Not Ask For More” by Edwin McCain, and Elliot sing “This is the Moment”, which was recorded by Daniel Rodriguez after 9/11. I’m pulling for both Taylor and Elliot. You have both touched my heart!
P.J. Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 12:10 am
Out of the four remaining, I would choose to go to a Taylor Hicks concert. I would most likely buy an Elliot CD. Simon, Taylor gives people a reason to smile and have something to look forward to everytime he takes the stage. In today’s world, bringing joy to so many hearts can’t be all that bad.
And he still has a great voice, charisma, he’s a natural at entertaining, he’s got all that and a bag of chips!
Gram Pam Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 12:16 am
A non-Taylor fan remarked that Taylor fans should close their eyes and just listen to his voice. I have, and he’s got an amazing voice. But it’s so much more fun to listen to him with my eyes open.
Joy Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 12:58 am
In response to anhonestresponse:
How did you get the inside scoop on how many times people vote? You think Taylor fans are the only ones who phone in multiple votes?
And to Becky, I DID vote for George W. How did you know? I always vote pro-life, and Taylor is full of life! If you don’t like Taylor, that’s fine! To each his own! But I’m no more tone-deaf than Taylor is drunk!
KIMBURLI Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 12:14 pm
If Taylor Hicks does not win this
I will never tune in to AI again.I think the show is a bit unfair.And if Taylor does not bring on the crown then many American’s will know AI is a fixed show.Just like somebody else said he is the only one who has not been in the bottom,and I know for a fact he gets tons off votes in everytime because you can never get through on him.Go TAYLOR YOU ARE THE BEST.
kimburli Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 12:26 pm
You can lay off of Taylor.Taylor has an amazing voice,and the only reason he is being dawged by all non-Taylor fans is because he is a threat to each contestant left.Everyone is entitled to their own oppinion,but your oppinion is not going to name the winner,just like mine oppinion won’t.The truth is Taylor Hicks is great,and if you know real music at all then you would know that Taylor Hicks can sing his butt off.He would not be in the final 4 if he could not sing Remember the judges sent them through not America,you have to be able to sing to make it through,Duh so don’t make a comment that makes you look stupid.They are all great,and may the best one win.I am voting for Taylor all the way,To me he is the best.best of luck to all………
anhonestresponse Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 2:08 pm
On the contrary I don’t see Taylor as a threat, I’m not in the competition. I gave my honest take on guy. I don’t like his voice, his schtick is really tired and he’s a fake. AI wants him to win and they have been marketing him for the win since the beginning, how do I know this, well it’s quite obvious marketing is all about manipulating the public into wanting to buy a product, and creating controversy to keep people talking. Taylor has been the pick to win this from the beginning but of course none of you see this you’re too busy wrapped up in the latest conspiracy theory to realize you got sucked up in it. Let’s face it how else could someone who has been giving consistantly B- quality performances be doing so well every week, here’s how, the contest is fixed and he’s going to win anyway. Even if no one voted for him his phone lines would be jammed. Technically he should have been elimated in Country week, and he wasn’t in the bottom 3, it’s pretty clear based on the fact that he’s given bottom 3 performances half the time he’s been on the stage and he hasn’t been there once, this show has favored him every single week but everyones so focused on the controversy that they can’t see the reality. no one really listens to him, they are to busy watching him groove around. He’s only recently had two good performnces, and that certainly isn’t worthy of a champion, but that’s how it works people they get a guy that is a mediocre talent with a gimmick and make you fall in love with him and worship him, that’s what an idol is, it’s a false god people believe in and rally behind and stand up for because they don’t think people should pick on him for being different. Let’s be honest how else does a mediocre singer make it in this business? Through clever marketing and controversy. Ashlee Simpson, Jessica Simpson, Britney Spears…add Taylor Hicks to the list. His shelf life is only as long as he can keep up the act. Hope he learns from Gay Aikens mistake and doesn’t get caught on the web cam doing the nasty with another guy. He’ll be back at the HoJo’s lounge faster than a fart in a dust storm if that happens. If you are happy buying into this fake I’m happy for you, but don’t drag me along just because you can’t see the obvious. I was never into buying something that was forced on me or following along blindly like sheep.
Alpha Female Says:
May 10th, 2006 at 7:42 pm
I think Taylor is a breath of fresh air but with a tad bit of nastalgia. Simon is mean to everyone and can apologize to who he likes. There are obviously a lot more people that like Taylor according to the tallies (or a lot more passionate people that like Taylor to spend a lot of time voting for him). He is all American. Not Alt-Rock specific genre singer like Chris, not a “trained since the womb to become famous” singer who has the mechanics to a “T” but no soul like McPhee. He sings the kinds of songs Americans love. The roots of what was created here. He isn’t a screamer who is so ashamed of being in a CHRISTIAN rock band that he hasn’t mentioned it (Chris). He is who he is and it is heart warming to realize that other people love the realness of him. It is funny how some see someone so real that it seems unreal to them. Like Kellie Pickler. I didn’t particularly see her as great but her “realness” that everyone wanted to turn into a “fakeness” because it was too real was wonderful. She was out because she didn’t know what to do. She was plucked from a very small town where people don’t do you wrong. Welcome to Hollywood.
There is a difference in these contestants in that Taylor is all about the music and his interviews and actions prove it. Chris has said himself he has always wanted to be in the spotlight. Two good guys but only one doing it for the right reasons.
AI is a show people can watch or not watch just like any other. The people involved are involved because they want to be. People try out because they want to and unless someone is physically hurt on the show, there is no reason for anyone to apologize for anything. Taylor had to make some changes, so what. According to the polls it hasn’t made much of a difference. Everyone in my family loves Taylor from the over 70 grandparents down to the under 5 year olds. We love America, we love the blues, we love rock, we love country, we love R&B, and Taylor can flip from one to the other better than any other. Well ROUNDED he is! Don’t stress it people. Just vote!
sun Says:
May 11th, 2006 at 3:32 pm
An honest response, are you high? If not I reccommend it for ya.

You are taking this WAY too seriously. Taylor makes people feel good, he has a gift for that and singing…nothing quite that deep..I promise. Get over yourself.
Anonymous Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 9:41 am
From now on out the judges need to keep their mean spirited comments to themselves and stop manipulating the voting. Manipulation doesn’t work as you can see…the public has a mind of it’s own and we like Taylor…do you get it judges? I voted this year for the first time because I am just tired of seeing them pick and pick at one contestant…it reminds me of a bunch of chickens picking the feathers out of another chicken until it dies…but as you can see Taylor Hicks is not going to lay down and die. He has class and the public and fans are behind him all the way. You notice he doesn’t act mean back, he is a classy, mature performer and the public appreciates that and responds. Way to go Taylor.
sam Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 11:40 am
While I believe that Taylor Hicks does have singing talent, I don’t believe that he has “it” that in the long run he will attract more fans beyond his current fan base. I see the “American Idol” as someone who will be able to break through genre barriers and attract even those who don’t normally listen to their type of music. For example, I’m more of a hip-hop fan, but I can be sold on someonr like Chris.
dfurus Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 1:25 pm
After reading all the comments, I am somewhat shocked. I never realized the last minutes changes were forced on Taylor. To his credit, he went on to sing his heart out anyway. He is and has been my favorite since I saw him audition, Chris was my 2nd favorite and I am sad to see him go, he’ll be really successful, i am sure. By the way, I bought Taylor’s CD, Under the Radar, I hear it’s wonderful, won’t get it for 2 to 3 weeks, though.
NoWayTayTay Says:
May 12th, 2006 at 7:04 pm
Umm, Puh-leeeze. Everyone gets a tough time from the judges esp. Simon. And Taylor seems nice enough but he simply has no talent. Sorry, but that is the way I see it, period. You can flame me, cry, whine, etc. but at the end of the day he has turned in more mediocre, lame, off-key performances then any other contestant in the top ten. His good performances are on relatively simple songs which again demonstrate little in the way of vocal talent or range. AI is inherently unfair on so many levels that it is pointless to debate it. I prefer to look at talent and while he certainly can sing better then me that ain’t saying much. clearly since Chris is now gone all those boldly predicted that it was rigged for Chris were wrong. Also if you want to talk about unfair, how about the extra air time he got after being requested personally by a supermodel. Ummm, they don’t let everyone do that do they? Of course, there probably won’t be a huge outcry on this site about how unfair that was to the remaining 2 or even to Chris on his night to be booted… Yeah… talent has little to do with this show and to pretend otherwise is to live in fantasyland.

So - Say what you want, flame if you choose - but he is the least talented left and has been for several weeks. Not that that really matters.
wanda Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 8:51 am
OHHH PLEASE!!!!!!! all you taylor haters make me laugh !!! ha ha ha dont be haters…if taylor was not the best he would have been in the bottom before and he has not..ha ha ha…but now mctatas (kat) and pwe (chris now gone,THANK GOD ) have been…so stop hating and get on the taylor wagon because he is going to be the next ai..as he should…p.s. the look on chris’s face was priceless !!! i keep rewinding to that moment… ha ha ha
wanda aka ( taylorfromthestart) Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 9:21 am
p.s.s. all you taylor haters talking about you will never watch ai again because pwe (chris) was voted off HA HA HA HA HA like anyone cares if you do !!!! ha ha ha taylor haters
NoWayTayTay Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 1:29 pm
You know people might not hate so much if you presented a point of view that wasn’t so pitifully pathetic that it wasn’t laughable. Oh and BTW talk about the pot calling the kettle black - “McTaTas”? it amazes me at how bringing down a beautiful, talented and sure to be successful girl is such a joy around this country nowadays. I guess it shouldn’t be all that amazing tho - it is pretty much what AI is really about - humiliating and chewing up talented people.
In case I be accused of the same please note that I am saying for all the world to see that I am not pointing out Taylor’s flaws to humiliate - the fact is he is probably a great guy, fun at a party, has a lot of enthusiasm etc - it is that he doesn’t measure up in the actual criteria of being able to sing. I can sing enthusiastically too - and still no one would want to actually hear it.
BTW, to be fair, I listened to his CD last night - And I would say it a lot cleaner and better polished then his AI work but I find it still very much lounge singer material. I’m sorry I tried but i think he should have been cut a long time ago.
taylorfan Says:
May 13th, 2006 at 4:31 pm
Taylor Hicks will win AI. He’s the most beloved, because he has the most talent all around. The rest are all as dull as dishwater. But, that’s my opinion. You don’t have to agree with it, many of you feel strongly about your choices. As for all the nasty comments about his dancing, if that were a crime then Elvis, Mick Jagger and pretty much every rock and roll legend is guilty of the crime of dancing all over the stage. America doesn’t always choose the best singers to be idols or
Britney Spears and Madonna would never have become famous. Get over it. This is a process. Taylor is winning this process, because the majority of Americans prefer him and soon it will be evident when he’s crowned this year’s American Idol and we can all get ready for next year.
Chloe Says:
May 14th, 2006 at 6:03 pm
I’m sorry but Taylor Hicks isn’t really AI material
I mean yes he does have an Okish voice but even though it shouldn’t be AI is also based on looks aswell as voice and unfortunately Taylor just doesn’t have the looks of a pop star. Hasn’t anybody noticed that out of all the previous winners of AI the ones that have done the best for themselves have amazing voices BUT also have the look. Take Kelly Clarkson and carrie underwood the two AI winners who have probably done the best for themselves not only do both of these have great voices but they also both have the looks.
AI are also looking for a winner who can sing a variety of different music and this again is not really Taylor.
That is why i didn’t believe Chris was going to win because he cannot sing a wide variety of music and obviously he didn’t win.
This then leaves Katherine and elliot who both have a good chance although i believe that Katherine is a very strong runner for the next AI winner, she has a great voice, she can sing pretty much anything and shes got the looks. Slightly similar to Kelly Clarkson (although not as good as Kelly in my opinion) and look how well Kellys done for herself.
And lets face it people if Taylor does manage to win hes not going to be around for long, hes going to fade into the background like many others have done. Well thats my opinion anyway.
Elizabeth Says:
May 14th, 2006 at 11:19 pm
I’m sorry, y’all, but I just have to laugh and shake my head at stupid comments like “Taylor Hicks is not AI material”. Yeah, that’s why he’s IN THE TOP 3, SORRY YOUR FAVE IS NOT.

Those of you who are “embarassed for Taylor”, fine. That leaves more for me! You don’t think he has the looks? ::THUD:: Get your eyes checked. He’s a beautiful soul, inside and out. Don’t agree with me? I really don’t much care. SOUL PATROL, TAYLOR! Your fans know why we love you. A change is gonna come, baby!

It’s really sad that fans of some other contestants feel the need to personally bash and insult anyone in the competition. If any of these people were untalented and awful, they wouldn’t be there. I cannot imagine spewing insults toward Kat, Chris or Elliot, even though they are not my favorites. They are all wonderful people with amazing talent, just like Taylor, and none of them deserve this kind of stuff from total strangers. Y’all should be ashamed of yourselves.

The lack of class shown by some people who post these kinds of things may very well be telling as to why your favorites aren’t on the show anymore. Think about it.

It ain’t no groove thang, it ain’t no country twang, it’s a simple refrain, IT’S A SOUL THANG!
Chloe Says:
May 15th, 2006 at 2:34 am
Actually my favourite is still in the top 3. My favourite is Katherine which is slightly obvious according to my comment.
And i don’t mean to be horiible but talyor IS embaressing, I’m not saying he isn’t a nice person but why oh why must he dance like hes on speed while hes on stage HE CAN’T DANCE. and the person above me is talking about elvis and mick jagger but they have got some sort of dancing skill where as im sorry but taylor does not.
John Says:
May 15th, 2006 at 11:31 am
I think Taylor will win. Not because he has the best voice since he doesn’t. There have been numerous bands and or singers who have been sucessful without having stellar voices. Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen come to mind.

Taylor is fun to watch and listen to. The others left in the competition don’t have the stage presence or playfulness to connect to the audience like Taylor does. Yeah I know that it is supposed to be a singing contest, but they never mention each week before voting “Please only vote for singing ability” and since they don’t mention this it is a popularity contest. Who can entertain the best, and in this arena Taylor will win hands down over Elliot and Katharine.
Anonymous Says:
May 16th, 2006 at 10:03 pm
I don’t think Paula sets a very good example when she’s always hitting Simon just because she disagrees with him. For heaven sake Paula, let the man finish a sentence.
Anonymous Says:
May 16th, 2006 at 10:04 pm
I like Taylor because of his goofy dancing and getting into the music, not in spite of it.
bryan Says:
May 16th, 2006 at 10:10 pm
guys…katherine should win…taylor wun be able to sell cds.coz the audience like his moves …not his voice…..so go for katherine…
Anonymous Says:
May 16th, 2006 at 10:13 pm
i think taylor will win too….but katherine should win because she can take the risk….and taylor’s fan out there….please give katherine a chance…vote for her…and vote ellioit off…..let katherine and taylor be the finale….
ali Says:
May 18th, 2006 at 10:02 am
first of all i have to say I LOVE TAYLOR!! SOUL PATROL!!! also I went to high school with him!!

and finally, saw this on some t-shirts, and on here, what does THUD mean? or stand for?
thanks.
debbie Says:
May 18th, 2006 at 2:27 pm
Maybe you have and maybe you haven’t heard this but thought I would pass it on. Would make for a great a investigative story. Took this excerpt off of the American Idol site under Taylor Hicks. Thius post should be close to the front and I have given you the authors avitar at end of this message.

The phone lines maxed out at 16 million votes, so NO PHONE VOTES ABOVE THAT NUMBER WERE COUNTED!!!

Using the D I A L Idol busy percentages, you can calculate how many ATTEMPTED votes there were for Taylor last night that were not counted:

Taylor: 79.8% busy = 64 MILLION VOTES NOT COUNTED
Elliott: 69.8% busy = 37 million votes not counted
Kat: 68.4% busy = 35 milion votes not counted

If AI had provided sufficient bandwidth for all the votes to count, Taylor would have won by a landslide. Also notice that Elliott might have come 2nd!!! Since D I did not track the 3rd line, I have used the busy figure for Line 2 on the assumptiont that that would be an average of the 3 lines.

PLEASE people, call/email/fax everyone you can at Fox, AI, and the news media to let them know the TRUTH. It won’t matter how many new phone voters you recruit to vote for Taylor if they do not provide at least 6 lines for each contestant for 4 hours. Tay does not need new voters, he just needs the phone lines open so the existing voters can get through!!!!! If ALL votes had been counted last night, he would have beat Kat by almost 30 million votes.

Please keep this at the top — none of the other voting strategies are going to make any difference if we don’t get some action on this issue. And make sure the news media know about this, so AI cannot purposely throw away millions of Taylor votes and hand the title to Kat because of a few extra text votes!!!!!!

If you would like a copy of the calculations to send to TPTB and media, PM me and I will send them to you.
idoleejit
Joined: 03/19/06
Posts: 559
Dez Says:
May 19th, 2006 at 12:21 am
Wow. Do you guys use spyke and dialidol to make sure Taylor gets his votes? Don’t care about the guy. I just hope you all buy his cd’s because previous AI fans have been hit & miss when it comes to loyalty. Since you all seem to know him so well and he’s so nice and such a kind soul, could you tell the kind soul that he looks constipated when he sings and to either poo or get off the pot.
Thanks1
taylorsfuturewife Says:
May 20th, 2006 at 11:33 am
Dex, you ignorant slut

We will buy his CDs…you sound just a tiny bit jealous.
Cindy Says:
May 24th, 2006 at 9:05 am
How on earth can Taylor fairly compete against the daughter of a Fox Network exec? I don’t think Kat should even be on this show.
busybee Says:
May 24th, 2006 at 10:00 am
It should be made public that Kat is the daughter of a Fox executive. How unfair is that?? Granted she is attractive but she is a cookie cutter of all LA singers who ‘make love to the camera’. Taylor Hicks is a fantastic talent and it’ll be a real shame if he doesn’t win. SOMEBODY will appreciate him for the talent he has, even if he doesn’t win.
Pypec Says:
August 28th, 2006 at 1:46 am
http://www.galerias-jeropa.lesbianasxx.com @X@ http://www.sexo-estriptease.lesbianasxx.com @X@ http://www.conejito-movieclip.lesbianasvip.com @X@ http://www.tetonas-desnuda-gratis.lesbianasvip.com @X@ http://www.falda-jpg.cachondas18.com @X@ http://www.gay-cojiendose.cachondas18.com @X@ http://www.free-porn-gay-phoenix.pr0n-only.com @X@ http://www.links-amatuer-sex.pr0n-only.com @X@ http://www.handjobb-models-xxx.jerking-pros.com @X@ http://www.hand-job-gave-him-porn.jerking-pros.com @X@ http://www.fotolog-morenas.19jovencitas.com @X@ http://www.menudas-download.19jovencitas.com @X@ http://www.wielkie-kurwy-clip.h.przeworsk.pl @X@ http://www.lolita-pornos.h.przeworsk.pl @X@ http://www.kurwe-w-dupe.r.podlasie.pl @X@ http://www.sperma-xxx-kurwa.r.podlasie.pl @X@ http://www.rodzenie.g.opoczno.pl @X@ http://www.vanoza.g.opoczno.pl @X@ http://www.pupy-w-aucie-darmowe.fb.lapy.pl @X@ http://www.wytryski-porno-pornole.fb.lapy.pl @X@ http://www.pornosy-ladacznice-liwe.d.rawa-maz.pl @X@ http://www.pierdol-mnie.d.rawa-maz.pl @X@
www.lake-shore.co.uk Says:
October 11th, 2007 at 9:52 am
AI knows that Taylor is getting the highest number of votes

Comments

You must be logged in to post a comment.