It wasn’t long before the R&B lovers became obsessed with the singer and fans affectionately nicknamed him “Velvet Teddy Bear” after his win on American Idol. To our collective delight, the singer emerged the show’s season winner in 2003.

Over the course of 15 years, Studdard released his platinum-selling debut album, Soulful (2003), along with five other albums: I Need An Angel (2004); The Return (2006); Love Is (2009; Letters From Birmingham (2012); and Unconditional Love (2014).

For the playlist, Studdard selected 10 of Vandross’ most popular hits, including the classic “Here and Now”, “Always and Forever” and “A House Is Not A Home.” Then he put his own unique spin on them.

“I’m just trying my best to get as close as I possibly can without trying to copy him verbatim,” he explained. “My interpretation.”

The homage to Vandross is fitting, as Studdard has been compared to Vandross since the first note he sung on American Idol. If there was ever an artist that would do Vandross justice, it’s certainly Studdard. The star told People:

“I don’t think people were only focused on the fact that I sounded like or looked like Luther but rather, ‘Oh this guy reminds me of Luther because he interprets songs well.”

BUT THATS NOT ALL

Studdard heads out on a 22-city “Always and Forever” tour, starting April 8 in Sacramento, California, which he says aims to come as close as possible to the shows the fabulous Vandross was well known to put on during his heyday. From costumes to choreography Studdard insists, “We wanted to do it the correct way.”

Don’t just save your money for Jay and Bey. Look out for Ruben Studdard too!