On April 20, the New York Chapter hosted a GRAMMY SoundChecks event with Arista Records recording artist Taylor Hicks. Approximately 20 GRAMMY University Network members and 10 high school students, chosen by event sponsor Verizon, attended the event. The "American Idol" winner spoke about his experience on the show, touring and growing up in Alabama. He noted his musical influences throughout his life, with Ray Charles topping the list. He first spoke to the students about their goals and what they hope to achieve in the music industry and then he opened the floor to a question-and-answer session. Taylor was gracious and generous with his time and offered complimentary tickets to the students for his evening concert.