Ruben Returns: Anyone Care?

American Idol's second-season champ announces a May 19 release for his new album, Love IS

By Gina Serpe Feb 19, 2009 8:05 PMTags
Ruben StuddardAP Photo/Jim Cooper

His passing mention and split second of screen time with fellow American Idol champs on last night's results show may have been the most publicity he's received in months, but Ruben Studdard is nonetheless primed and ready for a comeback.

The Clay Aiken-whooping reality champ has announced a release date of May 19 for his fourth studio album, Love IS.

The Grammy nominee and onetime area code propagator also unveiled the drop date of the album's debut single, his first since 2006. "Together" is set for release on March 17 but can be heard beginning today on AOL Music.

The real question is, will anyone cuddle up to the Velvet Teddy Bear's return?

Poll

Ruben Studdard Comeback Poll

The prodigal Idol returns. This news is:
Exciting—he may not be the biggest Idol, but he's got chops and real staying power
30.7%
Dull—the Velvet Teddy Bear should go back into hibernation
39.1%
Not news—forget the Teddy Bear; the only Idol animal I want to hear about is Anoop Dogg
30.2%