Boyd: Second album in the works

SIKESTON, Mo. -- It was a good week for Neal E. Boyd.

In addition to celebrating his 35th birthday, he learned Wednesday that the funding and rights were secured for a second album. He shared that news while addressing members of the Sikeston Area Chamber of Commerce at Thursday's monthly luncheon.

"It's been a pretty wild year," said Boyd.

The tenor, who won "America's Got Talent" in 2008, admitted that he never thought he would be able to do a second album, so the tracks on his first one reflect his Southeast Missouri upbringing. The album, "My American Dream," was released in 2009 and peaked high on the classical album charts.

"This next one will probably be a bit more universal," he said.

Boyd also spoke of his continued support for the Kenny Rogers Children's Center, from which his nephew now receives treatment.

In fact, Boyd hosted a big birthday party Thursday night, during which he requested donations be made to the Center. "And I'm committing myself today to singing at next year's Telethon," he said.