He Got Soul: Ruben Studdard

The "Velvet Teddy Bear" performs at the Soul Train Awards.

Our American Idol  - The Germany-born, Alabama-raised crooner got his big break in 2003 as the Season 2 winner of the popular reality competition series American Idol. Ruben credits his mother’s extensive catalogue of Donny Hathaway, Fred Hammond and several other gospel music albums as the catalyst to his love for music. 
Topping the Charts  - Studdard’s first single, a cover of Westlife’s “Flying Without Wings,” premiered at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut album Soulful, which topped the one million mark in advance orders before its official release, stole the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 album charts, selling over 400,000 units in its first week. 
Accolades and Awards - Studdard's rendition of the Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell-penned single "Superstar" not only helped to advance him during his American Idol competition cycle, but also later earned the robust vocalist a 2004 Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance and a Soul Train Awards nomination for Best New R&B/Soul or Rap New Artist.
Sophomore Success  - Studdard’s sophomore effort I Need An Angel  — a gospel album featuring production and writing credits from R. Kelly, Mary Mary and more — entered the gospel charts at No. 1. Since its release, the record has sold over 500,000 units. Ruben Studdard: September 12 - The American Idol winner turns 35 this week. (Photo: Moses Robinson/Getty Images for GMA)

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Topping the Charts  - Studdard’s first single, a cover of Westlife’s “Flying Without Wings,” premiered at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100. His debut album Soulful, which topped the one million mark in advance orders before its official release, stole the No. 1 spot on the Billboard 200 album charts, selling over 400,000 units in its first week. 

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