Sneak Peek: Taylor Hicks' New Single
Last year's American Idol, Taylor Hicks, is out with a new single, "Just To Feel That Way."
The track is from his self-titled debut album, which entered the Billboard Top 200 album chart on Dec. 12 at No. 2.
The 30-year-old Birmingham, Ala. native has described his debut album as a blend of old and new.
"It's my modern take on modern soul music," Hicks told The Showbuzz in December. "I like to say the word 'modern whomp music,' because it's just got that funky, bluesy, jazzy, but modern edge. And that's kind of the route I wanted to take on this album."
Listen: "Just To Feel That Way" (Windows)Listen: "Just To Feel That Way" (Real)
Hicks begins his tour in support of the album on March 14 at the House of Blues in New Orleans. He's also scheduled to appear in St. Charles, Mo.; Green Bay, Wis.; Atlantic City, N.J.; Baltimore; and Kansas City, Mo. with more dates to come.
During the "American Idol" tour this summer, Hicks had a chance to perform in much larger venues than he's ever played.
"Playing on arena stages was exhilarating," said Hicks. "The energy was interesting because there's definitely a longer place to get to the energy — from the fans to the stage. You really have to connect with people who are all the way back in the audience."
But Hicks said he is more comfortable performing in small theaters and clubs, as he will on his upcoming tour.
"I enjoyed the experience of playing arenas, but for me, as an artist, I think the more intimate settings and the more theater-oriented settings is right for my music," said Hicks.