New American Idol to sing at Stadium of Fire

PROVO — Taylor Hicks, the newly crowned winner of "American Idol," will perform at the Stadium of Fire, organizers of the event announced Friday.

Officials at America's Freedom Festival at Provo, the group that plans Stadium of Fire, said their invitation for Hicks to perform at the July 1 show was the first major appearance he accepted since becoming the new "American Idol."

The show's finalists are starting a 54-city tour later this summer, but no performance is planned in Utah yet.

"Stadium of Fire is the time and place to see and hear Taylor Hicks in person," Brad Pelo, a trustee of America's Freedom Festival of Provo, said in a statement.

Hicks, 29, won fans across the country with his raw singing style and wild dance moves this season.

Some 43 million viewers tuned in May 24 to watch him sing his first single, "Do I Make You Proud," during the show's finale.

Country singer Lee Ann Womack and three tribute bands will also perform at this year's Stadium of Fire, held at LaVell Edwards Stadium.