‘Idol’ winner really ‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’
Studdard puts his career back on track after ‘A.I.’
There’s no statue on his mantle announcing it, but Ruben Studdard is still the proud winner of the second season of “American Idol” in 2003.
“It’s just like winning a Grammy or an Oscar,” says Studdard, who was also nominated for a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance that year. “To me it’s just as important.”
Studdard has spent the last six years touring, releasing albums and belting those high notes. On Friday, the man that “Idol” fans dubbed The Velvet Teddybear takes a break from melting hearts to star in a revival of “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” the finger-snapping revue about the music scene in 1930s Harlem.
Studdard says he believes now is a more relevant time than ever to celebrate the songs of African-American legends who weren’t properly appreciated back then.
“The one thing that I bring to the show is an appreciation of where I am and where he wasn’t able to be,” says Studdard about his character, jazz icon Fats Waller. “These artists were affected by racism so strongly, even though they were so popular. I think this musical and the time that we’re in is really a blessing,” he adds.
The five-person cast includes other ex-Idols French ie Davis and Trenyce Cobbins, allowing Studdard to feel right at home. But “Ain’t Misbehavin’” is a limited engagement, so what’s coming up for the singer? Broadway?
Co-host of the next reality TV show with Justin Guarini?
“Charley Pride can’t be the only black country star,” Studdard teases. “That’s all I’m saying.”
‘Ain’t Misbehavin’’
Friday through Sunday
The Strand Theater
536 Columbia Road, Boston
MBTA: Orange Line to
Downtown Crossing
$28 - $58, 617-482-9393
www.citicenter.org
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