Seven Days: Vermont's Independent Voice

Hopelessly Devoted

An “American Idol” winner needs no introduction. Say “Soul Patrol,” and millions of reality-TV junkies would know you’re talking about Taylor Hicks. The bluesman’s career took off when he was named top dog in 2006, but he was no stranger to the music biz. The Alabama native had already self-produced two soul albums by the time he auditioned for the singing competition, and he’s since branched out, even grooving to “Beauty School Dropout” as Teen Angel in a Broadway production of Grease. But he’ll stick to his niche when he pops into Rutland’s Paramount Theatre on Saturday. With his signature country, R&B and jazz edge, the salt-and-pepper-haired musician pushes the boundaries of rock ’n’ roll. Idolize that.