When Taylor Hicks won Season 5 of "American Idol," he didn't just ride on the 63.4 million votes that helped him secure the title. Oh, no. While on the "American Idol" tour with the other finalists, he was already beginning to promote himself as a solo artist.

"I had my band follow me, and we did shows after the 'American Idol' concerts," he said. "It was like a shadow tour. It's a wonderful way to kick-start a record."

That strategy worked well for him (his first recording, "Taylor Hicks," went platinum), so he's repeating it while on the "Grease" national tour, which arrives in San Diego on Tuesday.

On March 5, after performing in "Grease" at the San Diego Civic Theatre, he'll head up to the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach for a solo concert featuring songs from his new CD "The Distance," which will be released March 10.

When Hicks stepped into the role of Teen Angel in the Broadway production of "Grease," he had never acted before. But the role (played by Frankie Avalon in the film) is small. He comes onstage to cheer up the confused character of Frenchie, then leaves after singing one song -- "Beauty School Dropout."

"I had been offered many roles, but this one was a great introduction to acting and musical theater," Hicks said. "I wanted to pick the right part to get my feet wet. This one has allowed me to learn and get experience."

The producers also encouraged Hicks, known for singing R&B and soul, to tailor the role to his musical strengths.

"They allowed me to write some R&B horn lines, which is key for me," he said. "It's wonderful to have that outlet for me to create the role."

Hicks is following in the footsteps of other "American Idol" contestants by tackling theater, including Clay Aiken, Fantasia Barrino, Diana DeGarmo, Josh Strickland, Frenchie Davis and Tamyra Gray. He sees the transition as a natural one.

"The TV show is about singing and entertaining people," he explained. "We needed to be able to do both to do well on the show."

Hicks will be doing both as he introduces his new album next month. He will end each performance of "Grease" by performing the first single from his new CD, "What's Right is Right." Those who like what they hear are invited to join him at the Belly Up for more on March 5.

"Audiences will experience me in the Teen Angel role for 30 minutes, then 30 minutes later experience me as me," he said. "It's a one-two punch. It will appeal to fans both old and new. It's a soulful song, one of those ones that sticks with you."

Hicks took his time with this album. He wrote 70 percent of the songs and spent a lot of time selecting the other songs.

"I really took the time to pick and record the songs I wanted to record," he said. "I really enjoyed the process. I tried to touch all the styles that have influenced me. I got some great players as well. I wanted to put together a timeless, classic record."

Hicks admits that he still watches "American Idol," although it's usually quick glimpses before going onstage. So far, he has no favorites in this year's competition. His experience on the show is still something he's grateful for.

"I'd do it all over again," he admitted. "I love the idea of it. It's a wonderful platform to start from. It gives you many opportunities, from singing, to acting and musicals. I've been blessed to be part of it."

"Grease"

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday and Wednesday; 7:30 p.m. March 5; 8 p.m. March 6; 2 and 8 p.m. March 7; 1 and 6 pm. March 8

Where: San Diego Civic Theatre, 3rd and B Street, downtown San Diego

Tickets: $18-$84

Info: (619) 570-1100

Web: www.Broadway SD.com

Taylor Hicks in Concert

When: 9:30 p.m. March 5

Where: Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach

Tickets: $35 in advance, $37 day of show

Info: (858) 481-8140

Web: www.bellyup.com