Former "American Idol" winner Taylor Hicks has shared that life after winning the competition in 2006 was "a lot tougher than it seems." Nearly two decades after his victory, Hicks reflected on the realities of sudden fame and the biggest misconception about winning the popular singing competition.
Hicks, now 49, who was known as the leader of the "Soul Patrol" during his winning season, has built a career that includes concerts, a Las Vegas residency, Broadway performances, and television hosting.
Reflecting on the whirlwind that followed his win, Hicks offered advice he wished he'd received earlier: "Be patient and trust in God."
He credited his upbringing in Birmingham, Alabama, and his parents for helping him stay grounded in the entertainment industry. "One trait that my parents taught me and my values is to stay grounded and make sure that you are nice to others," Hicks said. "Karma's a real thing, so be nice, be sweet and be happy."
Hicks also noted that aspiring reality TV stars today face a more competitive landscape than he did. "Luckily for me, 'American Idol' was the only game in town," he previously told Fox News Digital. "I think the last talent show that was on television was 'Star Search.' And once 'Idol' became so successful, I think 'America's Got Talent,' 'So You Think You Can Dance.' There's all these entities that kind of popped up that you really have to compete for now."
Looking back at the moment he was crowned champion, Hicks advised his younger self, "Enjoy the wave as much as you can because in this business, sooner or later, it's going to crash, and you've got to catch another one."
As part of the nation's 250th anniversary celebration, Hicks performed "Nineteen," a tribute to young Americans who served after the September 11 terrorist attacks. He described the milestone as "an amazing time in history for our country."
Hicks is also scheduled to perform at Flora-Bama Lounge on July 11 and host the Connecticut Country Music Festival in North Haven, Connecticut, on August 1.