AMERICAN IDOL sensation Taylor Hicks may have slimmed down since winning the world’s most-watched singing contest but he will still take on the shoes of a singing Santa when he came to Manila to spread Christmas cheers.

Hick’s series of concerts at the Ayala Malls is definitely a holiday treat for music fans and last-minute holiday shoppers. With his signature salt-and-pepper hair and raspy soulful voice, Hicks broke all stereotypes and exceeded expectations by taking the American Idol title during the show’s fifth season.

Born and raised in Alabama, Hicks had no formal musical training, he picked up singing, guitar and harmonica on his own.

Hicks is known for his single “Do I Make You Proud,” a song that was part of his music showcase when he performed at the Ayala Malls last December 18 at the Glorietta 4 Park, December 19 at the Greenbelt 3 Park and on December 20 at the TriNoma.