The first of the super American Idol voting pushes was when it came down to Ruben Studdard vs. Clay Aiken in season 2 of American Idol. The good team hear at RBMVibes was split between the two, but no one could deny the talent behind the velvet teddy bear. As we’ve flown behind him-wingless and all- we’ve been treated to a career that showcases a marvelous voice-sometimes behind less than outstanding lyrics and marketing. The ups and downs have included being kicked off his label, touring with the cast of A’int Misbehavin’ in the role of Fats Waller, and also getting married. We’ve heard his “Sorry for 2004″, but after that apology most can still only name a few of his songs. At times, Studdard surely did seem like he needed his angel. Still Studdard has remained strong and has ventured into both R&B and Gospel garnering moderate success in both. His last album was gospel and featured the hit “Love Him Like I Do” which he recorded along with Deitrick Haddon and Mary Mary. Now he’s back and moving out of the gospel realm and working on his fourth album, “Love Is”. This time he’s teamed up with superstar producers Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis and the early internet buzz is looking good Studdard. In an interview with CNN.com, Studdard said he is ready to take his role as the heir apparent to the gone too soon big boy artists Gerald Levert and Luther Vandross. This is what his idol fans have been waiting for since he commanded over 3.4 million viewers on the Idol stage. “Together” is currently on the Urban Adult Contemporary charts. Other songs to look out for is “Song For Her” which is a sweet love song for his wife and his cover of Al Green’s “For the Good Time.”

New York area residents can get a free Ruben performance this summer at Central Park’s SummerStage along with gospel artists, Tye Tribbet and G.A. and Smokie Norful at 3 PM on Saturday June 13th.

Since we know you like being in the know, take a gander below at the video for the first single “Together” and listen to a few other tunes. America, its your idol “RUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUBEN STUDDARD!”