NEW YORK-- Taylor Hicks is now a platinum recording artist. His self-titled debut album was certified platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America, selling more than 1 million copies since its release on Dec. 12, 2006.

Hicks has reached this milestone prior to the release of an official single. The first single, "Just to Feel That Way," goes to radio this week.

Hicks will also kick off his first headlining tour on Wednesday, Feb. 21 in Jacksonville, Fla. at the Florida Theater, with dates currently scheduled to run through April 27 in Kansas City, Mo. This is the first time fans will be able to see him perform songs from the new album in a live venue.

Hicks won the fifth season of “American Idol” last May.