Ruben Studdard

Ruben Studdard is an American singer and actor known for his work in R&B, pop, and gospel music. Born Christopher Ruben Studdard on September 12, 1978, in Frankfurt, West Germany, he was raised in Birmingham, Alabama. He began singing at the Rising Star Baptist Church at the age of three, laying the foundation for a career that would eventually bring him national attention. Studdard studied voice at Alabama A&M University, graduating in 2000. He rose to fame as the winner of the second season of *American Idol* in 2003. That same year, he received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his recording of "Superstar." He has been affectionately referred to as "The Velvet Teddy Bear," a nickname given to him by Gladys Knight. In 2004, Studdard released the gospel album *I Need an Angel*, which includes the song "Jesus You're The Center Of My Joy." His catalog also includes the albums *Soulful*, *Unconditional Love*, *Ruben Sings Luther*, and *The Way I Remember It*.