Taylor Hicks Scores a Victory in Maryland!

"In the Game of Life, He Who Touches the Most Lives Wins."

Heartwarming stories about how Taylor Hicks has positively impacted the quality of life for many of us are abundant. Some share that they are enjoying a greater appreciation for music, but many run deeper and are more profound in their effects on the lives of others.

Recently, several touching stories about how Taylor Hicks has dramatically altered lives were shared with Taylor’s Angels by Mr. Bruce Torres. Mr. Torres is with Cabana Cove Concerts and was the promoter for Taylor’s July 6, 2007 Hagerstown, Maryland show. Mr. Torres is an avid fan of Taylor’s and worked diligently to promote the show not only to the general public but also by offering special opportunities to charitable organizations within the community, allowing them to enjoy the amazing artistry of Taylor Hicks as well. He worked closely with Taylor’s Angels and donated over 60 tickets to the Boys and Girls Club and Girls, Inc. in Hagerstown.

In an email, Mr. Torres relayed the following:

Greetings from Hagerstown,

I want to share two very special stories with you. We had a presale on April 14th so that local residents would have a chance to buy tickets to see Taylor before we put them out for general sale. There was a women standing on line with her 13 year old son and another son who was about 6 years old and had obvious emotional and physical disabilities. I talked with her and she told me that during Taylor’s performances during the AI season, her son would actually start sort of dancing and would be glued to the television. When Taylor's CD came out she bought it and told me his music is one of the only things that he responds to. She likes to put it on and dance with him. Amazing!!

The second story touched me even more. As I was standing outside the box office talking to people in line, an elderly man came out and said, “I understand that you are the person responsible for bringing Taylor Hicks to the Maryland Theatre". He shook my hand and proceeded to tell me this story. He woke up one morning and saw that his wife was sitting at the kitchen table crying. She is sick and he naturally thought something was wrong. He asked her if she was ok and all she could do was hand him the local paper with the article about Taylor coming to the Maryland Theatre on the front page. He told me that his wife is a huge Taylor fan but is not well enough to travel, even short distances, and knew she would not have the opportunity to see Taylor on tour. When she saw the paper, her tears were finally those of joy!!!

When the game of life is over, he who touches the most people wins. Score two for Taylor in Hagerstown.

Bruce Torres

In working with Mr. Torres and Cabana Cove Concerts through Taylor’s Angels, I became increasingly aware that this promoter was actually promoting Taylor Hicks, his artistry and his music and was focused on that aspect more so than the bottom dollar. His attention to every detail regarding Taylor’s visit to Hagerstown, Maryland was impeccably thought out. As a result, people in that small community camped out overnight to purchase tickets to this event. Although the temperature was 30 degrees that night, Mr. Torres stayed with them and offered them hot coffee and encouragement. At the day’s end, Taylor had set the one day sales record for tickets at the legendary Maryland Theatre, where his idol Ray Charles had once played.

As everyone is well aware by now, Taylor’s performance in Hagerstown was one of the best of the summer tour. All the fan sites were talking about his energy, passion and song selection. Of particular attention was Taylor’s dramatic encore, which included an acoustic version of “Happier With Him”. In my heart, I believe Taylor knew the passion with which this show was promoted and was touched by the love he felt in this small community.

Mr. Torres and his wife, Cassie, were speechless after reading some of the comments on the various fan sites regarding how well received Taylor’s concert was in their small hometown. They send their warmest thanks and wish to respond to Taylor’s fans in this manner:

" To all the fans who sent messages regarding the Hagerstown concert, my wife, Cassie, and I want to thank you for the kind words. It was our first concert production and we were honored to have Taylor Hicks as our guest. Those of you who were there know what a special night it was. For so many others who could not attend but got to listen in or see some of the video, I am sure you could feel it as well.

Being able to bring so many children to the show was as much a gift to us as it was to them. For one little girl who had recently revealed an unbearable past, it became a very special night. The only peace she has known over the last year has been his music. Her mother told me that looking up at the pictures of Taylor on her wall gave her something to smile about. She was the first person I brought in to meet Taylor during the meet and greet. Nothing will ever erase her horrible experiences, but in that one moment sitting next to Taylor Hicks, the world became a better place.

Taylor Hicks’ music is his vehicle, but his caring and compassionate nature is the "heart and soul" of the artist.

It was a pleasure to be a small part of the magic that is following him around. We hope to have him back in Hagerstown sometime, and we hope to see some of you again."

Bruce and Cassie Torres
Cabana Cove Concerts

Taylor Hicks did indeed score a big victory in Hagerstown, Maryland. He has unknowingly touched so many lives in immeasurable ways.

To view the media coverage of Taylor Hicks receiving a key to the city of Hagerstown, scroll to the bottom of the page and click on the link.

Written by Tina (DidNotExpectThat)


Tags: Taylor Hicks, American Idol, Soul Patrol, Taylor's Angels