Last month, Grammy-nominated singer and American Idol winner, Ruben Studdard performed live at BB Kings in Times Square. It was a part of his “Can’t Nobody Love You” Tour. There wasn’t an empty seat in the house, and ladies were mesmerized by Studdard’s voice. The velvet teddy bear’s performance at BB Kings reminded fans why he’s considered to be one of the best vocalists of our generation.
Studdard rose to fame while competing on the singing reality show, American Idol. In May 2003, he won first place on the show and released his debut album, Soulful. The album sold over a million copies, was certified platinum, and released the popular single “Sorry 2004” and “Flying Without Wings.” He was also crowned the “Velvet Teddy Bear” by legends in the industry such as Gladys Knight.
The Alabama-native followed up with more singles and records and is eager to present this new body of work to fans. His single “Can’t Nobody Love You” is out now and his new album When Love Calls Me will arrive on October 28th.
Singersroom.com chatted with the melodic Southern singer about his new single, American Idol, Prince, and so much more.
Check out our short Q&A below!
New single, “Can’t Nobody Love You”: You know what? To be perfectly honest, there wasn’t any concept. I have a studio at home. My band came over, and we were grooving. And that’s what came out from the groove. And honestly, that’s the best music; free-flowing your record. The record reminds people of that old school sound. It was authentic because all of us were doing it together at the same time. We didn’t have to do all whole bunch of takes and edits for this record.
New album When Love Calls Me: We’re six albums away from my debut album, Soulful, and I am older. I was a kid when I recorded Soulful. I’m in the studio with my gospel album, and it’s just a new sound. The album is more mature, a grown folks vibe and the songs reflect a more grown-up feel. I can listen to certain songs and say I’ve been through that, or I can relate to that situation. My delivery on the songs is different from my debut album.
Remembering Prince: I remember listening to the Purple Rain album when I was a kid, and I was so impressed with him. I would listen to the whole album, except “Darling Nikki,” because of the content. [My Mom] was like alright now, cut it off put on something else. He was such a great musical influence on me; he was R&B, pop, church, and rock all at the same time. He was the best pop singer, the best rock and roll singer; it was ridiculous. Prince taught artists to be different with music. I felt like I had to pay tribute to the man; he wasn’t here to sing his song, but at least me and the fans can sing it for him.
American Idol: The best moments on the show was just being on the show, making it to Hollywood, visiting New York after I made the Top 12. Making the Top 12 was a huge moment for me. We also had a photo shoot in Central Park during the middle of a blizzard. Another special moment was actually WINNING; it was awesome, and the whole experience was great. I want to give out a shout out to man Ricky, who was my best friend from the show. I surely miss him.
Maintaining that Stellar Voice: It’s all GOD! If I gave myself credit for it, I would be wrong. It’s all God. I don’t always eat the things that I should eat, so I know God is maintaining my voice.
Having A Supporting Fanbase Thirteen Years Later: I think it’s the power of television; I was in 100 million people’s homes every week for six months. People just don’t forget; it’s like asking people how do they still say D-Y-N-O-M-I-T-E. It’s the same concept.