Affectionately known as the "Velvet Teddy Bear" for his smooth voice and lovable personality, Ruben Studdard ... successful music career that spans genres, including R&B, pop, and gospel.

Proudly repping his hometown then and now, Scripps News caught up with "American Idol" Season 2 winner Ruben Studdard ... Now Studdard is working on a new challenge: New music.