Ruben Studdard: I Need An Angel Is Number One
Ruben Studdard "I Need An Angel" album is number one. Ruben Studdard's debut gospel album, " I Need An Angel," took the #1 spot on the Gospel sales chart this week with sales topping 96,000 copies, also landing at #20 on Billboard's Top 200 album chart. "I Need An Angel" is the highest selling gospel debut since Kirk Franklin's "Nu Nation Project" in 1998. To put this achievement in perspective, the #2 gospel album this week sold only 8,000. The album is Ruben Studdard's follow-up to his multi-platinum 2003 Grammy-nominated debut "Soulful".
The lead single "I Need An Angel" was written and produced by award-winning hit maker R. Kelly. In addition, the album contains new Ruben Studdard renditions of many inspirational classics and traditional tunes, including the much-loved classic"Amazing Grace" and the traditional "Fix It Jesus." Additional tracks include "Goin' Up Yonder," "Shout To The Lord," "Restoration," "We Have Not Forgotten" (featuring Fred Hammond), "Ain't No Need To Worry" (featuring Mary Mary), "Center of My Joy" and "Running Back To You."
"I have been singing gospel songs since I was a child and I really wanted to go back to my roots with this record." explains Studdard." "My mother was in the local choir. I went to pre-school church and it was a teacher there who first heard me sing. I was doing solos at a young age - my first one was "I'm Yours, Lord." I continued singing in church and in school and I listened to all kind of music at home. Every song on this album has a special meaning to me."
Ruben Studdard whose musical journey began in his native Birmingham, Alabama when he sang with the local choir at the age of three chose all the songs for the album, focusing on tunes that have played an important role in his life.
Additional producers that contributed to the album include Warryn Campbell (known for his work with gospel duo Mary Mary, Luther Vandross, Brandy and Dru Hill) and Eric Dawkins (of the gospel group Dawkins & Dawkins and writer of songs recorded by Quincy Jones, Tyrese, Commissioned and CeCe Winans).
Ruben Studdard, who also won an NAACP Image Award for his debut album "Soulful," spent much of late 2003 and early 2004 touring across the country, giving audiences a first-hand look at why his emotive performances brought him national recognition and acclaim week after week during "American Idol."
Ruben Studdard "I Need An Angel" album tracklisting:
1. I Need An Angel
2. Center of My Joy
3. Goin' Up Yonder
4. Fix It Jesus
5. Amazing Grace
6. Shout To The Lord
7. Running Back To You
8. Restoration
9. We Have Not Forgotten
10. I Surrender All
11. Ain't No Need To Worry
12. Don't Give Up
Ruben Studdard "I Need An Angel" album: ORDER IT NOW.
I have been listening to Ruben's new Gospel CD almost non-stop, since I bought it last week. This si his favorite genre of music and you can hear the joy he feels in singing it. This CD just plain makes you feel good!
Posted by: OSB | December 03, 2004 at 11:21 PM
I love this CD! Ruben you are the man! This is my first gospel CD! I love "Fix it Jesus", and "Goin Up Yonder"! I have been singing these songs since I bought the CD! Go Ruben! Keep up the good work! Can't wait for the next Gospel CD!
10 Thumbs up for this CD!
Posted by: Renee | December 06, 2004 at 03:31 PM
This CD is even better than Ruben's first album. Each and every song is a joy to listen to. I LOVE THIS CD!!! WELL DONE!!
Posted by: Rachel | December 07, 2004 at 07:25 AM
This is by far one of the best Gospel CDs I have ever owned. I had a co-worker download it and I listen to it every time I am in my car. The songs are so inspirational and I can't explain the feeling that comes over me when I hear them. I am so plesed that Ruben is using the talent that God gave him in a positive way. I just want him to know that I was deeply moved by the songs he sang and just to let you know that I purchased 3 CDs for gifts. I gave one to my mom today and I could see tears gathering in her eyes as we listened to it together. I want to wish you God's speed and encourge you to keep doing what you are doing. I would love to see you in concert so when you are in North Carolina again I will be at your concert.
Posted by: Julia Armstrong | December 12, 2004 at 01:58 AM
This is a really great album. I was disappointed in his arrangement of "Center of My Joy" I really expected to hear the powerful voice that we are used to. However, I still like the song and I still like Ruben. The rest of the album is great. It has been in my CD player since I brought it when it came out.
Posted by: Carol | December 13, 2004 at 09:20 PM
I listen to I need an angel and was so moved that I had to purchase the cd. I Need An Angel is such a powerful song, and the cd is so wonderful that you cannot help but be impressed by this American idol winner. He cannot make a wrong move
Posted by: Ty | December 20, 2004 at 04:26 PM
I listen to I need an angel about every day when they play it on the radio. I loved it so much that i bought the cd. When i play this song i wonder what a wonderful song it is. I need an angel is a very touching song.
Posted by: Relly T | January 01, 2005 at 12:10 AM
I just like to say that I love Ruben's music. Why? Every time I listen to it, it make me think about things that I have been through.
Posted by: Miocha Douglas | January 21, 2005 at 02:21 PM
I've heard the song but i haven't bought the cd yet i like the song its very nice
i love it:>
Posted by: Nathalie | May 28, 2005 at 07:56 PM