Escape from Wackadoo Island

Let's face it...when you tell someone you're in the Soul Patrol...oftentimes you brace for the worst.

On more than one occasion, I've had people giggle or...if they are related to me...roll their eyes, point their fingers, and outright laugh at me for being a Soul Patroller.

I had someone introduce me to a group of people I had never met as "Our resident Taylor Hicks fan."

I've had more than one friend, when I've told them I like Taylor, look at me incredulously and ask, "Why?"

I had my relatives shun the "Taylor Hicks" CD I bought as a Dirty Santa gift this Christmas...they actually wanted the lava lamp and thermos set OVER the CD. (The nerve.)

And my cousin said, "When I saw your present, I said, 'I'll be sure to not pick that one...it's from Shelley and I'll bet it's a Taylor Hicks CD.'"

Yeah...there have been many occasions when I've felt I was a novelty for liking Taylor...like I was some bizarre baboon sitting inside a glass case, being studied by statisticians and pointed at by the public.

For as much fun as it is to be a fan of Taylor Hicks...America has attached to it a stigma. And that stigma seems to say...being in the Soul Patrol means you must be slightly nutty.

I can't say I like that at all...especially for how self-conscious it makes me at times.

I don't like that when I get ready to go out in public, I hesitate before reaching in my closet for my "Got Soul?" shirt.

I don't like that I turn the radio down a little when I'm jammin' to Taylor and I come to a stop light surrounded by other cars.

I just don't like folks making assumptions about my personality or behavior based on my music choice.

I guess it comes with the territory...but I wish it didn't.

Now, honestly, I don't feel this is Taylor's fault. The guy is charming and created some pretty amazing catch-phrases that are forever embedded in popular culture.

I think, sadly, the Soul-Patrol-Equals-Gooberish equation was fostered by the connection to American Idol...and that will take a long time to wear off. (Though the Taylors, Jennifer Hudsons, and Kelly Clarksons are helping this cause greatly.)

So...'fess up.

Who has found themselves banished to Wackadoo Island by friends, co-workers, family, and strangers?

Who fights the good fight to prove that being in the Soul Patrol doesn't automatically mean you end every sentence with a hand clap and a shout of "Soul Patrol! Wooo!"?

What is the worst pigeon-hole you've been placed in by admitting your Taylor fanship?

And, finally, how do you plan to Escape from Wackadoo Island?

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The Perfect Taylor Hicks Set list for the Monkbot Convention

Okay...Double D and Shrew had a great idea...let's put our thinkin' caps on and come up with the perfect set list for Taylor when he hits The Big Easy on March 14.

Keep your list to 16 songs and one encore only.

Be sure to list in your comment if you will be attending the show!

I'll start...

1. Soul Thing
2. Hold on to Your Love
3. Just to Feel That Way
4. Feelin' Alright
5. The Runaround
6. The Fall
7. Georgia
8. Levon
9. Poor Boy (by Ray Lamontage...think Taylor could sing some sweet harp in this)
10. Hell of a Day
11. Ain't No Sunshine
12. Louisiana 1927
13. Heaven Knows
14. Use Me
15. The Right Place
16. Hollywood Nights

Encore: Taylor pulls Shelley on stage and sings "You Can Close Your Eyes" with her while he plays the guitar...no other instruments.

Spotlight fades...curtain closes...

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(I guess it's pretty obvious I like the slow stuff best...ha.)

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The Voracious Soul Patrol's Unsatiable Appetite

If you'll look down the right-hand column of this page, you'll see a little red button called "View Site Stats."

I click this button about twice a day to see how we're doing here at Monkbot.

On an average day, we have about 50 - 70 new hits (folks who have never visited the site before) and about 35 - 40 regulars (folks who have visited at least once).

It's always my goal to raise the latter number...which we have...slowly, but steadily.

But as you can see from the chart I put at the top of this post...there are those rare days where our site visits spike.

And, other than the day I featured my interview with Gray Charles...which made Monkbot history by bringing more than 1,000 total hits to the site in one day...every post I make that mentions Taylor Hicks sees increased numbers.

It definitely helps when Gray puts a link from his site to mine...like he did with his interview and on Sunday, when I featured NOLAgirl's Endymion write-up.

But I can also see by my little site counter that the mere mention of Taylor Hicks brings new folks and more return visitors to the site.

This is to be expected, I guess, but what always amazes me is the frenzy by which it happens. The visits are almost swarm-like. Folks will hear that there is a little tidbit about Taylor and they run to that tidbit...then run back to their favorite site to discuss.

It happens with every new group of pictures of Taylor...Swarm

Every news snippet of Taylor...Swarm

Every new video of Taylor...Swarm

Every new audio post from Taylor at Gray's...Swarm...Fawn...Swarm some more

And during the down times...between pictures and snippets and video and audio posts...there's always some rumblings of how great Taylor is and what he should perform/record and how he looks and the like.

All of it is fun...to a degree...but what puzzles me is how it has managed to maintain the intensity.

Taylor Hicks was crowned the Season 5 American Idol nine months ago in an explosion of fireworks, a shower of confetti, and a simultaneous "WOO!" from the thousands of Soul Patrollers who had phoned, texted, blogged, chatted, analyzed, hoped, strategized, and prayed to get him there.

Not to minimize the magnitude of Taylor's talent and general likability, but how is it now...after all these months...the fervor is still fever pitch? Why are we all still compelled to follow his every move? Download his every song? Watch his every video? Write blogs posts about it all?

Is he really that magnetic?

I mean...basically he's just a soulful Southern boy with a killer harp and some really nice pipes...right?

Since Taylor's coronation, a dozen or more Taylor fan sites have come to life on the Web...Taylor-related posts at Gray Charles have continued to bust at the seams with comments...Taylor's performances have been very well attended...Taylor's guest appearances are anticipated and watched with excitement...multiple copies of Taylor's albums were bought by individual fans (me included)...reviews were written and read and argued...and tons of folks created fan vids at GoFish and YouTube.

Nine months is a long time. And in the pop culture world...it's almost a lifetime.

In an age where fame is more fleeting than an Elizabeth Taylor marriage...how has this guy from Alabama...who, despite his propensity for f-bombs and his less-than-trendy bar blues sound...continued to cause a fandom ruckus?

Sure he's cute...okay, really cute. And yeah, his live performances are totally electrifying. But his songs haven't stopped the world from spinning and he's hit a sour note or two. On more than one occasion he's left one too many buttons undone on his shirt and he's even tripped over his own words in the media. He's far from perfect (who isn't)...so, I don't get how he's maintained the magic.

But I do have a theory.

My theory is that...it isn't solely Taylor's charisma driving the swarm...it's the general demographic make-up of the swarm...that drives the swarm.

Anyone who has paid attention knows that the bulk of Taylor's fans (at least the online bulk) are women, age 30 to 60.

This group is quite a crew...women in the prime of life who are learning or have learned to speak their minds and not apologize for it. Women who love the fact that Taylor is still a young man but looks older and is singing music that spans a broad generational gap...which, can connect someone older with the sense of being a part of something youthful again.

I've been fortunate enough to meet some really great folks in this group...some strong women who have a lot to share and a lot of heart. But putting aside these folks and all the good that comes with a gaggle of women from ages 30 to 60, I have to say that the group that makes up the bulk of Taylor's fan base is a little scary, too.

This group can be pushy and demanding. It can be biting and abrasive. The women in this group have worked long enough to afford pursuing what they want, and they have taken care of themselves long enough to feel entitled to what they want.

And what they want right now is Taylor Hicks.

...

Okay...I have to stop here and say that I've reached the point in my post where I feel I've made my argument...but I'm still confused.

I know these women want Taylor (maybe because he seems attainable in some way, maybe because he simply turns them on, or maybe because the whole "thing" makes them feel youthful or carefree or gives them an escape from reality) but I'm still lost when I try to figure out "why the swarm?"

Why is the hunger so great?

Why is the need to find out more so insatiable?

Why go to 15 concerts when one or two would suffice?

Why spend all the money? Admonish anyone who dares criticize Taylor? Download all the media? Comment on every post at Gray's?

Does it feel good...does it give a sense of conquest...or has it merely become habit?

I've been in this crazy mix since Taylor warbled his first notes on AI. It wasn't too long ago that I was all consumed. Heck...you may have noticed I even started my own blog about all this nonsense.

But, over the last several months, my fervor has died...a lot.

My crush on Taylor is gone. My obsession with seeing all his clips has vanished. I've even...gasp...deleted some of my Taylor media.

I've become sane again...well, as sane as I can be.

Sometimes I even feel like a kind of fraud when I put up posts on Taylor...because I'm so NOT in the know about this or that and I'm way behind on what's happenin' at Gray's.

I think I know now what my co-workers and family were thinking about me when I was caught up in this whirlwind that is Taylor Hicks...because it's what I'm thinking about everyone else still in the swarm.

I'm thinking...Huh? What? Really?

So, tell me, how has this managed to maintain? Is all the fuss just about making a fuss...or is it still about Taylor?

Will...or can...the Soul Patrol ever "get enough"?

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Taylor Hicks Performs at Endymion Ball...a Monkbot Exclusive

Our dear little NOLAgirl has had a rough year and a half...what with Hurricane Katrina destroying her home and city. So, she richly deserved her special night last night at the Endymion Ball in New Orleans where Taylor Hicks gave a private show as part of the Mardi Gras celebration. And the wonderful girl she is, our NOLA was gracious enough to share her experience with us. Thanks, NOLAgirl.

Taylor at Endymion

A Monkbot Exclusive by NOLAgirl (a.k.a. Katie)

Click here for photos of the event.

It was a chilly 30-minute wait to get into the Dome for the Extravaganza (my mom told me to bring a wrap but I thought I'd be fine. Duh.). Wind was blowing, excitement growing. It was about 6:30. BRING IT ON. Got into the warmth of the Dome and trekked our way to table DD 29 (coincidence? I think not!). We had a GREAT table (thanks Mr. Keith!) and the first 2 pics show the stage from our table. (The Taylor pics are from closer up, we just walked right up to the barricade) Pretty cool set, huh? No AI tin foil high school prom crap. Nice. Local band The Cheeze Weez entertained us until the parade arrived around 8-8:30ish.

As his float was entering the Dome the announcer gave a little background on Taylor, mentioning that he was a Southern boy and then stupidly saying he also attended Auburn University, to which the boos rang loud and clear (including my own AND the friends in our group that went to Alabama). Taylor was still chucking beads and cups like a champ but you could tell he had to be pooped. I am sad to report that I did NOT catch anything from him on his grand marshal float. However, my friend Meaghan said she DID she him say "Katie, I love you!" So I felt better, naturally. I didn't get a pic of him on the float, but you've seen some cute ones already here at Monkbot.

Covered in beads, we moseyed back by our table to unload (the woman next to me by the parade route got clocked in the face with beads and had to put an ice pack on her eye - ouch.) and get ready for Al Green. He made it do what it do and toward the end of his set Meaghan and I (the blonde in the pics) headed to get in position for Taylor. She didn't know much about him, but I think she was somewhat impressed, or at least enjoyed it. (I talked to her today and she went online to search for Taylor to find out more about him and his music, so that says something!) They had the stage divided into two sides so that the musical acts could transition without having to wait for the crew to change out all the equipment and stuff. So as Al Green was finishing out, I saw Brian, Jeff, Zippy, Sam and Mitch come onto the darkened side of the stage and get into position. I told Meaghan that Taylor was coming soon because that was his band and she was impressed with my skillz and "inside info." Word.

So then the fun REALLY began! He came out ready to rock and started with "Call Me the Breeze." He then did "Hey Pocky Way" with some tagging ("When the Saints Go Marching In" and that "Hey, the Mardi Gras" callback thing to the audience we've heard him do before). He did two originals, which he announced as such, "Soul Thing" and "Hell of a Day," and then did "Gonna Move." They were all great and I was so feeling it (and no, it wasn't just the gin and tonic). The up-close crowd seemed to be, too. His circles dance and harp seemed to get the most response, naturally. He then closed it out with "Dance to the Music" (fun!) tagged with a little "Higher." He of course gave props to all the LMBO guys like usual. Didn't talk much, just the usual "How y'all doin', New Orleans!!!!" and "Happy Mardi Gras everybody!!"' sort of thing. It was short (less than an hour) but SO sweet!



The woman next to me during the performance turned to me after it was done and said "Aww, he didn't sing that song!" and I said "What song?" "That 'make you proud' song," she said. "Ohhh," I said. "Yeah, I don't think that's one of his favorites. You know, not really his style." (trying to be "PC" with this stranger). "Well I like it!" she said, "And he did make me proud!" So one woman was a little disappointed in not hearing DIMYP ... but this woman had no complaints, all around! (except that Taylor didn't call me up on stage to dance with him, as my office mates had predicted Friday - those nutcases).

(In other news, Styx was pretty damn good. "Come Sail Away" was by far the most fun of their set. It sounded like the whole Dome was singing along! Journey ... meh. We left before they were done, as it was already nearing 3:00 a.m.)

I have to say my friend Melissa's parents (her dad rides) were so sweet to me in particular, as they knew I was a big Taylor fan. They made sure we got a good spot and seemed to enjoy us enjoying him (and the whole ball, to tell you the truth!) Her dad came up to me at one point in the night and showed me some pics on his camera from the Friday night more casual dinner that Endymion has. He got some good ones of Taylor. He said Taylor was so gracious and signed autographs and took pictures with anyone who wanted them for two hours. Mr. Keith seemed impressed by him, so that was neat.

Shell, that's all I can think of now! Sorry it's not that creative, but it's the facts baby!

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NOLAgirl...no apologies, babe. That RAWKED! :)

Laissez les bon temps roullez, baby! Yeah!

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Just to avoid confusion that Mardi Gras is all revelry and no pain...here's proof of the dangers inherent in having plastic beads hurled at you...our own Double D got this contusion at the parades in Mobile.



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Laissez le Bon Temps Roullez....with Taylor Hicks

From Double D, "All of my favorite worlds collide.

Check out how dirty his hands are....from the beads. I know they say "Throw 'til it hurts", but after 3 and half hours of throwing cups and beads, his right side's gonna be paralyzed for a week."

Thanks for the pictures, DD.

Was Taylor a Diva on AI...and if so, Who Cares?

A little gossip tidbit from MSNBC says Taylor Hicks was the biggest diva on Season 5 of the show.

First of all...any source that doesn't give their name sorely looses credibility points in my book.

Second of all...who really gives a rip? That was LAST YEAR. He'll give up his crown in a couple of months. Seriously, why bother?

Okay...so I'm going all "grassy knoll" on y'all...but does anyone else smell sabotage? And if so...why? What would be the purpose? Or is all of this the result of some needy lacky behind the scenes at AI who is on a little power trip for getting a chance to be quoted in a "news" story?

Lastly...let's say Taylor is a diva. Does anyone care? Not in the sense that Taylor is so great that his underwear never needs washing...but in the sense that everyone in show business is likey to be somewhat of a diva (let's face it...you got to have a pretty healthy libido ego* to push yourself into any spotlight)...so why should we care about this guy from Alabama following suit?


*thanks to dr. bob for pointing out my libido/ego typo. though i'm sure taylor has a pretty healthy libido, too. bwahahahaha

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Write Your Own Caption

Here's a pic of Taylor Hicks and Katharine McPhee arriving at Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy Party on Feb. 10.

I thought it would be a fun one for everyone to try and write a caption for it.

However...

1. Don't be mean.
   
   
2. Snarking is fine...but don't deliberately trash Miss McPhee. (I know it's a fine line...but I trust my Monkbots to walk it safely.)

Here are a few of my own...

Direct Taylor Quotes
"I said I wanted a blonde!"

"Is it hot in here...or do I have a touch of McPheever?"

"Waaaa! I liked the yellow cleavage dress better."


Cutline Form
At Clive Davis' Pre-Grammy shindig...Taylor Hicks errupted into a spontaneous version of "Pour Some Sugar on Me" by Def Leppard.


Katharine McPhee Thought Bubble
"Grandpa?"

Okay...now y'all try...

If you want to see other pics of Taylor arriving at this event...click here.

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UPDATE: Wow...just 6 comments in and someone became a mean little person who posted ugly things anonymously and ruined the fun for everyone else. The offensive comments have been deleted and commenting for this post will stay off.

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Boy...When Life Is Good...It's Beautiful

As many of you know, when it comes to Taylor Hicks...I've gone 'round the bend and back again.

I like him.

I don't like him.

I'm crushed on him.

I'm tough on him.

I want to marry him.

I'd be happy to just interview him.

I want my picture with him.

I'd just love a picture of him with Traveling Monkbot.

Silliness.

Well...about two months ago I finally came to peace with what I truly want from Taylor Hicks.

I want great music...lots of entertainment...and, oh yeah, to sing a duet with him.

I'm serious.

I've put quite a lot of thought into this final wish.

What would I sing if I had the chance at a duet with Taylor Hicks?

I know I wouldn't want to do a big ballad...too cheesy.

I wouldn't want something cutesy or too rock-'n-roll, either.

After turning it over and over in my mind...I thought I had finally had come up with the perfect song...



This performance makes me smile...one of those pure smiles that overtakes your face before you realize what's happened. A smile that stems from being joyous and in love with life. To sing "Mockingbird" with Taylor would be utterly fabulous.

But, then again...



I love this clip. I love the simplicity and the earnestness. You can see how much Carly loves James. She's so pretty... sun-kissed...love-kissed... and naively bound for heartbreak. This is so bittersweet to watch now...but still so tragically lovely.

This is the song I want to sing.

Taylor, if you're out there...come sing "Close Your Eyes" with me...and I promise to never bother you again...not for an autograph, an interview, a photo, or a marriage proposal.

I swear.

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Well the sun is surely sinking down
But the moon is slowly rising
So this old world must still be spinning round
And I still love you

(chorus)
So close your eyes
You can close your eyes, its all right
I dont know no love songs
And I cant sing the blues anymore
But I can sing this song
And you can sing this song
When Im gone

It wont be long before another day
We gonna have a good time
And no ones gonna take that time away
You can stay as long as you like

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And I Thought Saturday Would Be Boring...

My expectations for Saturday were fairly low.

Not in a bad way, just in a "I have nothing much planned today" way.

Other than catching a matinee with my friend, Jon, and picking up a camera from another friend, Kathy Sue, all I really HAD to take care of was getting groceries. And I also knew I wanted to visit a local butcher shop...but more on that later.

I woke around 8 a.m., got showered and dressed as soon as I could stumble out of bed and let Sadie out. I put on jeans and my turquoise shirt and threw my hair back in a ponytail. I was very pleased to notice that my jeans fit a little looser than normal (thanks to two weeks of cooking for myself...this is possibly the longest I've gone in four years withOUT buying food from a restaurant.)

Once I was ready for the day and had loaded my iPod up with a bunch of new songs I had purchased (I had gone on a Dolly Parton binge thanks to a post at Gray's that morning)...I was ready for the day.

I loaded Sadie in the car and pulled out of the drive to head to Kathy Sue's house. She's having her engagement party next weekend and asked if I would serve as photographer. I agreed, but only if I could borrow her digital camera...which is TONS nicer than mine. She was to leave it hidden in her storage room for me to pick up...as she was visiting her grandmother in the Delta this weekend.

It was a beautiful day...70-something degrees and sunny. As I drove down the street, I couldn't help but notice the saddest excuse of a garage sale going on not more than five houses down from my house. A scattering of smallish, uneventful items were set on a couple of rickety tray tables and overturned cardboard boxes that lined the driveway. I slowed somewhat...to peruse from my car, but nothing caught my eye, so I decided to drive on.

I got to K.S.'s house and found the camera, hidden where she told me she'd leave it for me...under a red plaid blanket.

I jotted her a note to let her know I had the camera, set it on the blanket, then drove on to Jimmy's Gourmet Meat and Speciality Shoppe.

I didn't know what quite to expect at the butcher shop. I had told Jon I was running by the butcher and he said..."The butcher? Are you living in 1950?"

I did feel a little Barbara Billingsly walking into the shop...though Jon insisted it was more of a Jane Wyatt act.

I gotta admit, it was nice having someone wait on me and answer all my stupid questions. The best you get at the Kroger is a guy running around, with lots of customers and little selection.

Another plus is that...all the butcher shop guys were fairly hunky. Not really my type, but very nice to look at through cases of raw meat. Err...that doesn't sound right...or does it?

I asked what type of fish would be mild and tasty.

"Anything but salmon," I said.

They recommended tilapia. It was $7.99 per pound (yikes). I bought three vacuum packed, frozen fillets .

I also saw a beautiful, lean cut of pork and had butcher guy cut me two 6 oz. servings. The coolest part of the visit was that they actually used honest to goodness butcher paper to wrap the pork.

Sadly, it takes very little to impress me.


After the butcher, I ran by the house to drop off the meat and put Sadie in the backyard to enjoy the beautiful day. The garage sale was winding down and my neighbor was moving items to the curb. I couldn't help but notice a big box, filled with old crutches. For whatever inane reason, I really wanted those crutches. But I couldn't stop...I only had a few minutes to get to the new theatre in Madison to see "The Holiday" with Jon.


Fantastic movie. I've never thought Cameron Diaz was a great actress, but she had some wonderful moments. Kate Winslet was precious. Jack Black gave us some chuckles. But Jude...

Jude Law is absolutely beautiful. He radiated from the screen. Not only is he gorgeous, his portrayal of the "widowed dad with heart" was lovely.

My only complaint with the movie is that they hired one of the hottest actors in Hollywood and used him in only one scene.

That actor is John Krasinski.

He was adorable...for the full 60 seconds he was on the screen.

Grrrrr...

But all my irritation with Hollywood was forgotten when I pulled back up to the house.

In my mailbox was a package...from Mind Doc.

I grabbed the package and excitedly opened it...and found...a pair of underwear.

Seriously, when I opened the package and saw the skivvies (pictured atop this post)...I howled with laughter. They are genuine Neighborhoodies drawers. Of course they are WAY too small to wear on my big butt...however...perhaps as a lovely chapeau? The new Taylor Toboggan...I'm sure it will be the next big craze with the kids.


Once I had caught my breath after laughing hysterically at Mind Doc's gift...I went out to check on Sadie in the backyard and noticed some torn paper near the back fence.

Now, I'm used to trash being in my yard. I live across from an elementary school. Cheetos bags, candy wrappers, notes that didn't make it to the teacher, or A+ tests that didn't make it to refrigerator doors...if it was in a backpack at one time...it usually ends up in my yard at some point.

Today's find was from someone who really, really likes strawberry cake...but has a small aversion to the letter "o".


I headed back in the house and put together a grocery list then went to the Kroger to get my non-meat things. I couldn't help but notice the box of crutches was still there, but it was getting dark and I wanted to get my shopping done before it got too late...so, once again, I left them at curbside.

Once I got to the Kroger and was walking toward the entrance, I noticed a mother and two children, a boy and a younger girl, in the parking lot. Both kids had Mylar balloons...obviously purchased for good behavior. But just as they began to load their car, the little girl's balloon escaped and began floating away into the dark sky. She didn't cry. She just stood there and watched. I stood there, too...watching it tussle with the breeze as it lifted. I'm sure I can attribute this to seeing too many movies or watching way too much television, but seeing a balloon on the run always makes me feel wistful and dreamy.

It took a second or two, but I finally came to my senses and stepped out of the middle of the thoroughfare. I grabbed my camera phone as fast as I could to snap a shot for the blog, but that balloon was in an awful hurry. I only managed to capture a blur...as well as two other objects that, I'm sure, I hadn't seen before. I quickly put my phone away and trotted inside the safety of the store...a girl simply can't leave herself vulnerable to a potential alien abduction.


On the way home from the grocery store...I lingered a bit in front of my neighbor's house...pining for those stupid crutches, which still beckoned to me from there cardboard nest. I can't explain what on Earth their appeal was to me. The Okidata printer (circa 1989) and the hospital tray table that also sat on the curb did nothing for me...but those crutches...I wanted them so badly that I couldn't stand it. Why would I want these? Why?!

Okay, so I've rescued more than my fair share of junk from the curb in my time...among my top finds are a chair (still have it), a small bookshelf (still have it), an entertainment center (read: an old phone cable spindle...don't still have it)...and...the pièce de résistance...a 1970-something jukebox with a miniature rotating disco ball hanging above the song menu and the words "Be a Pepper" plastered on the side (this was found by me and my brother, Ben, who helped me load it and haul it home...and then promptly reload it and take it to the dump once Mom saw it).

Curb culling is a sickness...I admit to that. But isn't admitting it the first step toward recovery?

You'll be happy to know, I resisted the urge to take the crutches. I settled for a snapshot. But believe me when I tell you that, after such an eventful day and knowing those crutches were calling to me from a mere five houses away...I could barely fall asleep that night.


I did finally drift off, however...and I dreamed of what a fantastic day I had had...and I rested peacefully knowing that, if those ridiculous crutches were still there in the morning...they would be mine.

Thank goodness they weren't.

I'm truly beyond help.

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In Honor of Taylor Hicks...and Possibly the Creepiest Video Ever

Taylor Hicks revealed on GoFish that the song he secretly listens to at home is "Total Eclipse of the Heart" by Bonnie Tyler.

I must admit...not until I rewatched the video for this post did I realize what it was about.

Madame Tyler had a thing for the little boys.

Creepy.

On a lighter note...way back in 1984, when I was 14 and foolish. I wanted nothing more than to have a hairstyle just like Bonnie Tyler.

And to prove it...



And in honor of Taylor's love of "I Will Survive"...here's an oldie but a goodie.



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Are You a Lyric Lover or Melody Maven?

So I was washing dishes Tuesday night, belting out "I Love the Nightlife," thinking what an absolutely ridiculous song it is...but also thinking how much I absolutely love to sing it at the top of my lungs.

And while thinking...something Wompuss wrote earlier that day kept creasing my brain. She referenced a post from Emily's Everything blog about Taylor Hicks' song "Just to Feel that Way" and how deeply that song touched her (Emily)...primarily because of the lyrics.

See...I think that song is okay...not great...but not the strongest from the album...and certainly not my top pick for the first single (but what do I know...I wash my own dishes for crying out loud).

The point is, since Taylor's album has been released, I've seen how opinions have varied greatly from song to song. Some folks love "Give Me Tonight" (ahem...glares at Bama)..and some folks have sense enough to hate it (me). My friend, Staci, told me she can't get enough of Taylor's "Places I've Been"...and I didn't even feel it was worth putting on the album.

I know people's opinions are purely subjective (a point that explains how stuff like this makes it on the radio)...and I also know that there really isn't any science to a universal song that is loved by all (if so...we'd all be placed in a Zen-like state by "Muskrat Love").



But what I have noticed is that a lot of folks seem to be drawn to songs for the lyrics. The words touch them...move them...speak to them.

I'm just not that deep.

You'd think that, as a writer, I would be drawn to lyrics. But that's not how I roll.

For me...it's all about sound.

The sound of music (excuse the Rodgers and Hammerstein reference)...the hook...the musician's voice...how he or she chews on vowels or spits out consonants. If the sound of a song doesn't grab me...I rarely take time to give the lyrics a chance (maybe that's why I've never been able to get into Dylan).

Take "I Love the Nightlife" for example...I've ALWAYS dug how Alicia Bridges sung "ack-SHAWN"...I mean...it just doesn't get any better than that.

And growing up, I loved Duran Duran...but to this day...I couldn't tell you their lyrics. Without Googling...if anyone can tell me the lyrics to "The Reflex" or "New Moon on Monday"...I'll give them the Monkbot Medal of Honor. Simon Le Bon's inarticulate delivery of lyrics made him sound like he was chewing on taffy. But I didn't care...I loved HOW he sang his muddled words...and I loved the sound of Duran Duran's music...in all its synthesized glory.

Don't get me wrong, I have songs that speak to me...that have lyrics that make me cry.

I truly and sincerely enjoy a well-turned phrase.

But the music has to grab me first.

So...let me hear how y'all listen to music...are lyrics your draw...or is a toe-tapping tune the first to capture your fancy?

(And no fair saying "it depends"...I'll yell foul and make you start over.)

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Merry Christmas to All

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Please, Stop Me from Doing This

After getting little-to-no sleep last night...I'm really punchy, folks.

I just got the e-mail from "Taylor Hicks" about voting for the Soul Patroller with the most soul (see above image).

Um...does anyone else but me think this is a HORRIBLE idea?

Don't these marketing people read the boards? Don't they see...and quake at...the back-biting and ugliness?

Why on earth do they want to promote MORE competition within the walls of the Soul Patrol? More petty jealousies? More snarkiness? More division?

This cannot end up well.

As my own small way of protesting this and showing the utter ridiculousness of the project, I want...oh so badly...to post this as my image...

Please talk me out of this and save me from myself.

I pray I get sleep tonight. I really need it.

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God Bless Us, Every One

I try with all my might to fight the fangirl raging within.

But then there are times...times when pictures like the one below come to the surface...and I'm left...mouth agape...and eyes agog...and I think...truly the world is a beautiful place.

You may voice your appreciation of this photo...but absolutely no o_n__ns, th_ds, sq__s...or, something I read in GC chat last week and almost gagged...p_t_t__s.

Keep it clean and respectable.

Link to the AOL Sessions here. (Thanks for info, Ivoryhut.)

Monkbot eGift Exchange

Tex had a wonderful idea for celebrating Christmas...Monkbot style.

A Monkbot eGift Exchange!

This is how it works. Everyone who wants to participate should say so in the comment section of this post. By 7 p.m. Thursday, we should have everyone's name in the hat who is participating.

I will then take the list of names, number each name, and print two copies of the list. I'll cut one of the lists into separate slips of paper (each slip holding one name). I'll fold these slips separately and drop them in a hat, bowl, or on the floor. I then will randomly pick up the slips and, as I do, will write a number on the back...until all numbers in the list are used. Then I'll unfold the slips and see who they match up with. Finally, I'll post who is "shopping" for whom Thursday night.

You will go online to find your assigned Monkbot a great gift. And the best part is...you don't have to spend a dime!

On Friday, I'll put up a Christmas Tree post for you to put your gift under.

To give a gift, just find an image that would make a great present for your Monkbot buddy and put a nice message to them in the comments as to why this image made you think of them. (Be sure to include a link to your image...remember to use your all-important html skills!)

For instance, if I were to "draw" Quossum's name...I'd say something like:

Dear Quossum,

You have brought so much joy to my Taylor-Hicks experience that you're like one of those warm and cozy quilts you create! To show my Monkbot love...here is your gift!

Merry Christmas!

Love, Shelley

And, because we're all about the Taylor and Gray lurve here...everyone can feel free to find "gifts" for these wonderful guys, too. Just be sure to put a message and link in your post.

That's it!

Who's game?!

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Oh...don't forget to check out the newest installment of our Monkbot Progressive Story below.

Bamaborntxbred has really sunk her teeth into the story. Things are heatin' up!

Also, I've put a permanent link to the Progressive Story in the right-hand column, so folks can find it a little easier.

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And this has nothing to do with our gift exchange, but information about Taylor on Go Fish just went up at Gray's this morning...and I think it's about the coolest thing ever...had to share...Go Fish and Soul Patrol! (Be sure to check out the behind-the-scenese clips while you're at Go Fish.)

How funny would it be if we all submitted questions and said, "I'm So & So...with the Soul Patrol/Monkbot Division. My questions is.....? Viva le Monkbot!"

Get up close and personal with Taylor Hicks

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Monkbot Raises Three and a Half Antennas to "Taylor Hicks"

Creating an album is, in itself, a monumental task. But creating an album in a mere six weeks following a summer-long tour while trying to create a unique sound that pleases a fan base of thousands, meets the controlling restraints of producers and executives, and fulfills your own desires as an artist is unheard of.

But, despite all these conditions placed upon Taylor Hicks and his self-titled debut album, which landed on shelves this week, the 12 tracks (plus bonus) should be considered a success.

The Album
Largely, Hicks achieved what he set out to do...put together an interesting and entertaining album with an old-school feel and a contemporary pop sensibility. Certainly there are a couple of songs...“The Runaround” and “The Right Place”…that immediately take hold of the listener and beg the repeat mode be clicked on the ol’ iPod. The rest of the album, however, needs to breathe a little for deeper appreciation.

On a second listen...“Heaven Knows” and “Just to Feel That Way” become clear standouts along with the impressive “Runaround” and “Right Place.” And Hicks' remakes of his originals…“Soul Thing,” “The Deal,” and the bonus track “Hell of a Day”…are also a lot of fun and very well done.

That’s not to say there aren’t problems with this album…problems that might mean harsh words from media critics. Though Hicks’ vocals are solid throughout the entire album… some of the songs don’t offer quite enough opportunity for his distinct and quirky personality to shine through. Several songs rely on what comes across as preset synthesized percussion and keyboard...which definitely detracts from the organic quality of what Hicks offers. However, where real instruments are used, the results are truly captivating.

The album as a whole probably won’t capture any Grammys, and I’ll venture to guess that the critics at large will pan the work…if for no other reason than most critics are music elitists who would refuse to admit that Hicks set their toes a tappin’ with a few jewels on this album. However, the strength this album has is its potential to drawn more fans for Taylor Hicks. If folks outside of the Soul Patrol can move past the “squareness” so many seem to associate with Hicks from his stint on American Idol and open themselves up to at least listening to the album… few will be able to deny the appeal of more than a handful of these songs.

As for the aesthetics of the album art… the photographs are beautiful and, other than the slightly cheesy “diner” font used for the album title, the overall look is great. However, one major oversight is that there are no lyrics written in the liner notes. All albums featuring vocals should include lyrics. If the words are important enough to put to music…they are important enough to put on paper.

The Tracks
A long-standing guide I use in determining whether or not I will purchase an album is that, before I plunk down my hard-earned cash, an album must have at least three songs that I am drawn to. “Taylor Hicks” certainly meets my guidelines. But I didn’t know this until Tuesday, when I downloaded the album from iTunes. Up until that point, I had only heard “The Runaround” and, truth be told, absolutely loved it. I had made a point to not read track names and I also hadn’t read any reviews or thoughts on the album…so that my first listen would be pristine and without bias.

So, when I climbed in my car Tuesday morning after downloading the album and setting my iPod to play the album straight through…I was as wide-eyed as a newborn.

The album was bookended well…with “Runaround” jump-starting the list and “The Right Place” rounding things out…but I question some of the other song choices for this first album. “Give Me Tonight,” “Places I’ve Been,” and “The Maze” didn’t stand out as strong or particularly enjoyable, so their inclusion seems a little curious since at least one song (penned in collaboration with John Mayer) was left off the play list.

The Runaround *****
by Loren Goldberg and James Renald
It’s the driving force of the drum line that pumps this song along. Yes, “The Runaround” has a pop sensibility…but is far from the “pop” I’ve heard since the 1970s. This song has a very soulful backbeat and the punch of the horns breaths new life into an old style. I sang this in my car all the way to work Tuesday morning…sheer toe-tapping goodness. My only criticism would be that there is a shocking lack of harp.

Dream Myself Awake ***
by Rob Thomas
I didn’t dig “Dream Myself Awake” on the first listen, but the second listen was much better. I’m not a Rob Thomas fan…at all…but this song has some very nice qualities. With a beginning measure that brings “Midnight Train to Georgia” to mind, the song plods a little at the start but, once it picks up, is very enjoyable. I have to admit that Hicks’ drawl in this song brought out the fangirl out in me. (Oh, and I need to add that there is line in the song that Hicks delivers that is creasing my brain with familiarity. Does anyone hear something familiar when Hicks sings “I can’t get enough of you BAby”? It’s driving me crazy trying to place where I’ve heard that tune before…especially the “baby” part.)

Heaven Knows ****
by Cory Rooney, Makeba Riddick, Kara DioGuardi, Matt Serletic, Ray Charles, Warren Moore, Smokey Robinson, Robert Rogers, and Marvin Tarplin
Paying homage to Ray Charles, Hicks kicks this tune off with the familiar organ part to “What’d I Say” and the rest is just as fun. The layering in this song is brilliant…the creakin’ sax, the driving percussion, the gospel-like quality to the background vocals. There are a lot of nuances going on here…all groovin’ well together to create a great beat and a strong singability factor.

Gonna Move ***
by Paul Pena
This remake of the Paul Pena classic has a definite Robert Randolph feel…and though I appreciate Randolph’s talents…the repetition and heaviness of the bass line is way too structured for a song that's about ramblin’. There's too much of a push/pull between Hicks’ loose vocals and the music framework. It seems he’s trying to loosen it up…but he’s fighting the instruments…which are thumping out a steady beat. I tried hard to not compare it with Susan Tedeschi’s version and Hicks’ live version…but it was hard not to. Like “Dream Myself Awake,” this song does grow better on the second listen and I truly liked the playfulness of Hicks with the male background chorus. I just wish the song, on the whole, was more loose.

Wherever I Lay My Hat ***
by Marvin Gaye, Barrette Strong, and Norman Whitfield
I had never heard this song before…even though it’s a remake of a Marvin Gaye song. It has a definite “Forever Young” (Rod Stewart) feel and Hicks does a wonderful job with the vocals. I love how this song leaves his voice exposed…vulnerable…but I didn’t really enjoy the synthesized feel to the song. It comes off as a little over-produced.

Give Me Tonight *
by Matt Serletic, Kevin Kadish, Brandon Jane, Lea Crutchfield, Taylor Hicks, and Kara DioGuardi
This is going to be rough, folks, so hold on. I hate this song. From the electronic drumbeat to the unbelievably cheesy lyrics…this is not good. It’s like Lionel Richie trying to be a badass…just...yikes. Maybe my appreciation is stymied by the creepiness factor of a guy wanting a raunchy one-night stand with some hot chick he saw at a party…but I doubt it. I literally cringe when Hicks sings, “There was magic in the air…I was trying not to stare, but you caught me…you caught me COLD.” Geesh…for this we gave up a Mayer song? I was more than disappointed when I saw that Hicks co-wrote this. I’m just relieved some of his other original works (written on his own without collaboration) are on the album to show folks that “Give Me Tonight” is not solely indicative of what he is capable.

Just to Feel that Way ****
by Lindy Robbins, Jess Cates, and Emanuel Kiriakou
Now this song piqued my interest immediately. In it, Hicks sounds like he's stretching his singing chops…and it works beautifully. We may have lost the Mayer song on this album…but “Just to Feel that Way” has a Mayer vibe mixed with a little Marc Cohn. This is a beautiful song. It gets a little “big ballady” in parts, but overall it’s very nice…and very different from anything I’ve heard Hicks sing. I also enjoyed the sound of the strings (which may be synthesized…but they work). Well done.

The Maze **
by Anne Preven and Scott Cutler
I can’t get past the 1987 Casio keyboard sound at the beginning...sorry. Must…try…to move…past…this. Nothing about “The Maze” stood out to me….except the 1987 Casio keyboard sound at the beginning. Stripping this piece down to just a few instruments would have enhanced the overall mood of the song by allowing the vocals to emote instead of compete for attention. The song does grow stronger toward the end…still, wholly, it’s not a real keeper.

Places I’ve Been **
by Diane Warren
This song brings me to the same thoughts as I had for “The Maze”…less would be more. Ultimately, this is a bland piece that I’ve listened to now five or six times and still can’t recall.

Soul Thing ****
by Taylor Hicks
Now this is a great remix of a familiar song. If I was hearing this for first time…I’d be hooked. I love the original…but this one is fun and a nice change of pace, even if the guitar in the middle is a bit much. However, the breakdown after the guitar solo has a quirkiness factor that really drives it home.

The Deal ****
by Taylor Hicks
This is another great rerecord…even better than the original…by far. I not only love the organ in this piece…I like the sax solo (and, as most of y’all probably know by now…I generally don’t like sax solos). Plus, Hicks settles into this piece like he would into a well-worn pair of slippers. There’s a very comfortable and laid-back feeling surrounded by familiarity and warmth. I have a renewed sense of appreciation for "The Deal" now. Thank you, Mr. Hicks.

The Right Place *****
by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance (written for Ray Charles to record before his death)
If for no other reason than this song…everybody should be a card-carrying member of the Soul Patrol. I absolutely am in love with “The Right Place.” The producers got it right on this one…a pared down song that features great lyrics, great music, great vocals, and lots of emotion. I wish the entire album could be this lovely. Hicks practically channels Ray Charles as he caresses this piece. Not only is Hicks sexy and soulful, his whiskey tenor shows a range that wasn’t explored in the album's other songs. He teases his audience in just the right places and hits them between the eyes in just the right spots. Plus…how many women out there would love to hear Hicks calling them “angel”? Um…sign me up. This song is perfect for the end of the album (at least the versions without the bonus track) because it shows the potential that Hicks has to express without all the hoopla of studio mixing and layering….and it gives us a taste of the direction his sophomore album could be heading.

Hell of a Day (Bonus Track) ****
by Taylor Hicks
This is another solid Hicks original. The re-record…with the added brass…didn’t do anything but enhance an already fantastic piece of work. I like the faster tempo and the added bridge. Plus, I actually think these vocals are among his strongest of the previous versions of this song that I’ve heard.

Overall…a great album…and one I will enjoy for a long time.




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Let's See...Something's Supposed to Happen Today....What Could It Be?

I know, I know...we're all filled with glee beyond comprehension that this day has finally come.

Taylor Hicks...the unassuming guy from Alabama who had us riveted to our televisions every Tuesday and Wednesday night last winter and spring...the guy who we emptied our bank accounts for to make sure he would win American Idol...the guy who had the biggest concert tour all summer (I think he was accompanied by a few other singers)...the guy who we all lurve...finally saw the fruits of all his hard work (and ours) with the release today of his national debut album, "Taylor Hicks."

How good does that feel!?!

We're all so very proud of Taylor and wish him well on the sale of his new album.

And I know we could recount story after story of all we did to get him here...and all we're doing to booster the sale of this album (which I've YET to hear).

However...I'd love for us here at Monkbot to share something a little different today.

Instead of saying how wow'd we are by the album...or how proud we are of Taylor...or how heartily we wish him well (which I'm sure we could all say TONS about)...let's, instead, look at what goodness we've encountered through this entire adventure.

Let's applaud Taylor by sharing how his journey has led to MORE than simply a wonderful album.

Allow me to go first.

In March I began sharing myself with total strangers at a little blog called GrayCharles.com. I nervously put myself out there (like so many of us did), fearing ridicule and public shunning.

But ridicule and shunning were the opposite of what happened.

I was embraced by a community...a community that was rich and vibrant and smart and funny and irritating and challenging.

It made me feel great.

As time wore on...I began to drift toward certain names on Gray's blog...Holeigh...Quossum...FLJerseyBoy...Double D...Ascme...Hope...and so many others.

These people would welcome me warmly in chat...they'd e-mail me...and, with some, we'd chat on the phone for hours.

I was having so much fun...but I didn't realize that I still had more growing to do with these folks and others.

In July I met up with NOLAgirl in the Big Easy and she escorted me and my family around the Quarter.

In August, I was privileged enough to travel with Q and her husband, James, to the AI concert in Birmingham. It was on that trip that Q presented me with the most beautiful handmade quilt I've ever seen (plus, it's purple...my favorite color).

At WorkPlay, a friend with a little pull tried to get me a meeting with Taylor...it fell through, but the gesture was very much appreciated.

Jan of Soul Patrol Relief managed to get Q and me to a special presentation at Lynn Park in Birmingham...which got us up close to Taylor.

I was able to return Jan's kindness at Lynn Park by giving her a place to stay when she was stranded in Jackson on her way to a LiMBO event.

I've received cards and letters and phone calls and e-mails and photos from so many of my "Taylor friends" that I hesitate to try and recount them all...for fearing of leaving someone out!

And everyone here at Monkbot has given so much to make this little site so very special.

From Bamaborntxbred helping me post when I'm not able...to MindDoc's concern for my well-being when I posted a video of my drive home...from Shrew making Monkbot fliers to pass around in San Jose...to everyone who signed up for Traveling Monkbot and everyone who is contributing to the progressive story...y'all's contributions have been amazing.

Plus...just yesterday...I received the most fun (and unexpected) care package I've gotten since college.

Sweet, precious little Ivoryhut sent me a box filled with all kinds of Filipino goodies inside. (I now know what Coco Jam is....yum!)



Of course the bag of Monkey Chocolate Banana candies grabbed my attention first...however, I then spotted a bag that said "garlic" and I had to rip it open (I'm convinced that it's my insane love of garlic that has kept me single this long).

Everything in the box looks delicious...but none of it compared to the letter that accompanied the gift. Ivoryhut, your words meant so much and summed up how I feel about you and each of your Monkbot siblings. Thank you!

I'm proud of the last 12 months. I'm proud of myself. I'm proud of Taylor Hicks, and I'm proud of Gray Charles.

But I'm also proud of each of you...for proving to me that there is so much goodness in the world.

Today really is a day to celebrate.

Excerpt from Ivoryhut's letter...

Just sending you a little something as a token of gratitude for giving me a reason to look forward to hanging around online again. You've created a warm, inviting place where others like me can feel welcome, and I feel like I've gained all these great and cool new friends that I can't wait to hang out with every day.

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The Night Before the Twelfth

An Adaptation of "The Night Before Christmas"
By Quossum

'Twas the night 'fore the 12th and all through the blog
Posters were whispering, as if in a fog.

Tension was strong; expectations were high
For the long-awaited CD release was nigh.

The fans were nestled all snug in their thought
That Taylor would go gold with the CD they bought.

And I with “Soul Patrol” emblazoned 'cross my chest
For the Wal-Mart aisles has eschewed my rest.

As dry leaves before the wild hurricane fly,
So flew my thoughts to days long gone by:

To a little TV show that lately we knew,
Which had Taylor and Bucky and Elliot, too.

I remembered the songs—I knew them by rote:
The dancing and prancing and each little note.

As I watched the clock’s hands too slowly go 'round,
To WorkPlay my restless thoughts did bound:

Taylor’s eyes were alight with a mischievous gleam
When he entered with thunderous applause on the scene.

He played and he sang—he gave such a thrill,
That closing my eyes I remember it still.

The harp, the voice, the dancing—oh when—
Please, not too long 'til I see it again?

Then up from the music aisle arose such a clatter,
I knew that gray-haired dude was the matter—

Away to the boxes I flew in a flash,
Beating another ardent fan’s dash.

The fluorescent lights’ gleam on the CD’s cover
Matched the gleam in my eye as I tried to recover,

For what with a twinkling before me did appear
That hard plastic case with a visage so dear:

A cute little singer so lively and quick,
At last! At last! I held "Taylor Hicks"!

Making my purchase, I went to the car,
Hoping our boy would continue to go far.

I was heard to exclaim on that fine winter night:
“Congratulations, Taylor! This one’s outta sight!”

Quossum...beautifully done. Thank you for sharing your work.

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My Taylor/Gray Mindset...Seasons of Change

Taylor Hicks and Gray Charles.

A year ago those names didn't ring even the smallest bell for me.

What a difference a year makes, huh?

Next month marks the beginning of Season 6 of American Idol. I can't believe the insanity is about to start again.

I had not even planned to watch American Idol this past year.

I certainly didn't plan to fall head-over-heels in crush with a gray-haired singer from Alabama...

or to be sucked into the semi-cult of the Soul Patrol...

or to write hundreds of comments on a blog run by a guy I would later call Gray...

or to spend more money than I could afford on text messages, phone calls, ticket buying, travel expenses, etc...

or to start a blog that would end up featuring a logo of a monkey/robot...

or to make and sell t-shirts with said logo...

or to record a Christmas homage to Mr. Hicks...

or...to make so many new friends.

Yeah...it's been quite a year.

I remember when 2006 was shiny and new...and I first saw Taylor and I first learned of Gray Charles. Boy...I had nary a clue of what was about to happen in my life.

With Taylor...I have run the gamut of emotions...from intrigued to fascinated to impressed to obsessed to crushed to humbled to wowed.

Yet...even now...after having gone through so many different feelings about Taylor Hicks...I have to admit that he's still a very compelling character in my life. And, in a bizarro, weirdo (probably stalkerish) way, I feel like...even though we've never met...that I'm his friend...not that he's my friend...but that I am his.

I've supported him and rooted for him and encouraged him and defended him. My fangirl crush...though still somewhat sparked each time I see him perform (or smile)...is outweighed by my intellect. I know we'll never meet or actually be friends...and I guess I'm okay with that. Well...accept for the small part of me that always enjoys sitting down and visiting with someone I care about over a cup of coffee...or a beer.

As for Gray...my emotions have run just as crazy a gamut. I began the year scared and intimidated by our little mystery man. Since then, I've revered him and been totally and thoroughly pissed off at him. I've been friends with him and, now, friendly acquaintances. My only steadfast emotion toward Gray has been irritation...as I'm sure has been his toward me. But, honestly...that irritation (most of it tongue in cheek) has only worked to make the year all the more fun.

I can honestly say that...Gray Charles still totally fascinates me. I still seek his approval on my writing...my thoughts...whatever. Perhaps my need for Gray's approval stems from me never having an older sibling to try to gain the respect of...at least that's how it feels. I admire so much of what Gray has accomplished that I look up to him and hope he sees the same potential in me. That's a lot to put on the shoulders of a guy who just wanted to run a successful blog...but...there it is. Good or bad.

Yet despite these loony emotions, I really have grown and come to a better appreciation of who I am...and what Taylor and Gray mean to me.

Sure, I'd like to be able to sit down with Taylor and interview him...or better yet...sing a duet with him...(oh...and I wouldn't turn down a date)...but in all honesty, I've gained a huge sense of reality concerning all matters Taylor Hicks. He's nothing more to me than a celebrity now...and any hope or thought I had about getting to know him or talk with him is totally out of my realm of reason. This makes me sad...but..I take great comfort in knowing that he's making supreme efforts through Gray Charles to stay in touch with his fan base. That really means a lot.

I'm also thrilled with the fact that his CD is soon to be released. I didn't think I would anticipate this album as much as I do. I was expecting a watered-down version of his pre-AI days...but, with the taste I've gotten thus far, this album promises to really please.

And ol' Gray? Well...yeah...I still get pissed when he doesn't respond to my e-mails...but I can at least deal with it like a rational person now. I've had my time in the sun with him and with GC.com...and it really was Camelot for a while.

I literally had all the wind knocked out of me when GC.com went offline. But I soon realized...all good things must come to an end.

The site now, since it's been back online, is still very enjoyable. Sure...the magic of what was has shifted into a new kind of energy...not a bad energy...just a different one. The good thing is that, with these changes, I've been able to temper my visit time to his site...which has allowed me to enjoy the music he shares even more and to put time toward my own blog. It really is a relief to not worry about always trying to make the pithiest, most insightful comment. (I remember the days when I would stay up until 2 a.m. to write performance reviews and then hold my eyelids open as I waited for responses to trickle in. I ate it up like freakin' candy.)

But now, I'm happy and content to share a thought or two at Gray's. And if no one comments (which is usually the case)...I can cope...and get to bed earlier.

I do miss my exchanges with Gray though...they were the most fun. But I guess you can't go home again.

Yeah...I guess I'm settling down from my Taylor Hicks/Gray Charles high. The euphoria was grand while it lasted...but there's something soothing in knowing that I don't need that high anymore. I just need Taylor and GC.com...sans expectations beyond entertainment.

It's been a good year. And I have a singer and a blogger to thank for it.

I don't fully know what to expect from 2007...but I can't imagine it topping 2006...not that there's anything wrong with that.

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Khakis Make Shelley Happy

Sorry, folks...since I put my posts up the night before...I have no real write-up for Thursday. (It's currently Wednesday as I write this.)

I'm determined to hit the bed early tonight.

However, because I don't want to leave y'all without ANYthing to talk about...feel free to discuss Taylor's performances this week on GMA, Regis & Kelly, Leno, etc. I'm sure y'all have lots to say...but remember I don't want to hear your thoughts on any songs but "Runaround," as that's the only song I've listed to.

Oh and to make up for the lack of a post...here's a little treat...a lurvely video of a hot guy in khakis.



AAAaaaahhhh...this commercial is literally an opiate for me...I swear, when I watch it, I can actually feel the endorphins kick in.

MMMMmmm...go...boy...go!

Nice.

Oh...and for any guys out there seeing this...um...this post is not really about looking at a hot guy in khakis...it's about how good all of us girls would think YOU would look in khakis.

Um...yeah...that's it.

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P.S. Unless you can write a logical, well-thought out, intellectual comment as to why...there are to be no fangirly comments about how good Taylor would look in khakis.

P.P.S However, if you CAN write a logical, well-thought out, intellectual comment about Taylor needing a pair of khakis so he has something to wear on the days his jeans are at the cleaners...please share.

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