Net Worth Ranker
What Is Taylor Hicks’ Net Worth?
As of 2024, Taylor Hicks’ net worth is estimated to be around $1 million. This estimation is based on his earnings from his music career, acting roles, reality television appearances, and business ventures. While specific breakdowns of his income sources are not publicly available, we can infer a general idea from his career trajectory.
Early Career and “American Idol” Breakthrough
Taylor Reuben Hicks was born on October 7, 1976, in Birmingham, Alabama. He spent his formative years in Hoover, Alabama, after moving there at the age of eight. Hicks has mentioned that his childhood was difficult, an experience that drew him to soul and blues music. He attended Auburn University, where he juggled academics with playing in a Widespread Panic cover band and participating in varsity sports while majoring in business and journalism. He also joined a band called Passing Through.
Before his “American Idol” fame, Hicks independently released an album titled “In Your Time” in 1997. In 2000, he moved to Nashville to pursue a professional music career, and created a three-track demo tape, but he was unable to secure a record deal. He later released a second album, “Under the Radar.” His prior musical experience became a point of discussion after he auditioned for “American Idol,” where amateur artists are typically sought. Hicks had not been given a recording contract, so he was eligible to compete.
In 2005, Taylor Hicks auditioned for “American Idol” in Las Vegas. Despite Simon Cowell’s initial lack of enthusiasm, Hicks advanced to the final three, alongside Katharine McPhee and Elliott Yamin. He was then given the Key to the City by the mayor of Birmingham, and a parade was also held in his honor. In 2006, Hicks was crowned the winner of “American Idol,” becoming the oldest contestant to win at the age of 29. Shortly after, Hicks signed with 19 Recordings Limited/Arista Records, managed by Simon Fuller, and released his debut single, “Do I Make You Proud.”
Hicks signed a $750,000 book deal for his memoir, “Heart Full of Soul: An Inspirational Memoir About Finding Your Voice and Finding Your Way,” ghostwritten by David Wild.
Music Career and Album Sales
Taylor Hicks released his self-titled debut album in 2006, which went on to achieve platinum status. While impressive, it holds the distinction of being the lowest-selling debut album from an “American Idol” winner. Consequently, Arista dropped Hicks from their roster. In response, he secured a distribution deal and released a compilation album titled “Early Works,” while also touring with “Grease.” In 2009, Hicks released his second album, “The Distance.” Specific sales figures for these albums post-Arista Records are not publicly available, making it difficult to precisely quantify his music-related earnings.
Despite his album sales, Hicks’ income was supplemented by his role in the Broadway musical “Grease” and a variety of other ventures. In 2012, he began a one-year residency at Bally’s Casino in Las Vegas, eventually moving to a larger venue in the city. The financial details of his Las Vegas residency contracts have not been disclosed, but such engagements typically provide a steady income stream for performers. He also joined the dating show “The Choice” and performed at the Republican National Convention during this period.
After a period of recording inactivity, Taylor Hicks returned in 2017 with the single “Six Strings and Diamond Rings,” marking his first new music in eight years. Hicks also starred in a production of “Shenandoah” in 2019, further adding to his income through musical theater.
Other Ventures and Revenue Streams
Beyond his recording career, Hicks has explored various other avenues for income. His role in the Broadway musical “Grease,” which he joined in 2008, would have provided a substantial income. The specifics of his contract and duration in the show are not publicly available. Taylor opened a restaurant in Birmingham, which received positive reviews. The restaurant’s success and profitability would have added to his overall net worth, although exact financial figures are not accessible.
His stint hosting the original series “State Plate” on INSP also contributed to his income. While the specific salary or per-episode fee is unknown, hosting a television show would provide a consistent income. His appearance on the dating show “The Choice” and performance at the Republican National Convention would have resulted in payments, although the exact amounts are not publicly available.
In summary, Taylor Hicks’ net worth of $1 million is derived from a combination of album sales, stage performances, television appearances, and business ventures. Due to the lack of publicly available detailed financial information, this net worth remains an estimated figure.
