Christopher Ruben Studdard (born September 12, 1978), is an American R&B, pop and gospel singer. He rose to fame as winner of the second season of American Idol and received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for “Superstar”.
In the years following Idol, Ruben has released six studio albums, including his platinum-selling debut, Soulful, and the top-selling gospel follow-up, I Need an Angel. He is most well-known for his recording career, which has produced hits including “Flying Without Wings”, “Sorry 2004”, and “Change Me”. Ruben has also segued into television and stage work. Most notably, he toured with Robin Givens in the comedy-drama I Need a Hug, and starred as Fats Waller in a national tour revival of Ain’t Misbehavin, which spawned a Grammy-nominated soundtrack.
Ruben continues to tour in various avenues – most primarily with his band, performing his catalogue of music plus a few timeless classics. In 2023, Ruben will embark on a national tour with close friend and fellow American Idol alum Clay Aiken, as the duo celebrate the 20th anniversary of their run on Idol.