Born: July 14, 1978
City and Country of Origin: Birmingham, Alabama
Music Training: sang at church; studied voice at Alabama A&M University
Awards: American Idol
Top Recordings: "Flying Without Wings"
Ruben Studdard Biography: Ruben was born to parents who were both teachers. His interest in music took him away from a promising career in football. He won a full scholarship to Alabama A&M University where it was hoped that he would use his massive body to help out on the offensive line. He received his degree in 2000 having majored in voice. He started his professional career singing with a local jazz/soul band Just a Few Cats. In 2002 he along with one of the backup singers in the group entered the American Idol competition. His music training paid off as he quickly climbed to the lead in the competition with his self confidence and easy laid back manner apparent to all who watched. He finally beat out Clay Aiken by just a few thousand votes. His entry into the pop music industry was choreographed to keep the competition with Clay alive. His first recording "Flying Without Wings" was eclipsed by Aiken's "This Is the Night." His much ballyhooed first album released was delayed for months as the producers and record company built the hype. When it finally was released it had a distint R&B hi-hop flavor.

Music by the Decade:

Sounds of the Fifties

Sounds of the Sixties

Sounds of the Seventies

Sounds of the Eighties

Sounds of the Nineties