Celebrity Travel: Go away with Ruben Studdard

Born in Frankfurt, Germany, and raised in Birmingham, Alabama – where he currently resides – Ruben Studdard won the second season of “American Idol” when he was just 21 years old. Now 46, the Grammy-nominated recording artist – who’s also known for his critically-acclaimed portrayal of Fats Waller in the musical revue “Ain’t Misbehavin’” – is tackling something new: his first Christmas album, “My Favorite Holiday.”

“Christmas has always been my favorite holiday, mostly because of the memories I have,” Studdard said. “Both sides of my family have big Christmas gatherings and it’s always been such a happy time for us all. Now that I’m a father, I look forward to the joy and excitement that surrounds the home when our children open the gifts that Santa has left for them.”

Studdard keeps his fans updated on his work and travels on Facebook (@RubenStuddardMusic) and X (@RubenStuddard). For his latest tour dates, check out the artist’s Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/p/DCmRMTdJdX6/).

Q: If you've ever gone away for the holidays, which was the best trip?

A: I’m usually always working on holidays. So I have to say that my best trips are always the ones that I get to be with my family. I travel so much for work that it’s hard to nail down when or where our next vacation will be. I’m sure this summer will be filled with Mickey Mouse and other theme parks for the kiddos.

Q: What are your hopes for 2025?

A: To be the best husband and father that I can be. I also pray that God will allow me the opportunity to continue doing this thing called music.

Q: Which childhood trip stands out?

A: When I was eight years old, I went on a trip to New York City with my aunt. It stands out to me because I went to my first Broadway show. I think that trip showed me what was possible.

Q: Where are some memorable places you've performed in?

A: I’ve been blessed to perform in so many cities with so many iconic individuals. The one performance that stands out for me is when the late, great Aretha Franklin invited me to her hometown of Detroit to perform for her birthday celebration.

Q: What is your favorite vacation destination?

A: In the winter, I love Park City, Utah. It’s so beautiful and peaceful. In the summer, I love going anywhere in the Caribbean.

Q: How have your travels impacted you as an artist?

A: Being able to travel and see how different cultures react to my music is awesome. There’s nothing like being in a room with people [who] don’t speak English, but they can sing your songs. Music is the ultimate unifier!

Q: Do you work on music when you're on the road?

A: I’ve never really worked on music [traveling]. I feel like the creation of music and its performance are two separate institutions. They both deserve equal attention to detail.

Q: It's not always easy to stay healthy while living out of hotels. What do you do to ensure that you will be as healthy as possible?

A: My manager and I have started walking while I’m on the road. Let me rephrase that. He’s always been walking [and] I’ve started to join him in those walks. Helps clear the mind and get ready for the show.

Q: What's the most important thing you've learned from your travels?

A: That people are mostly the same, no matter where you are. I’ve been to so many places and most people are friendly, kind and interested in having new experiences.

Q: If you could only pick one place to eat, would you prefer a food truck or fine dining?

A: I would have to say fine dining. If I’m gonna eat only one meal, why not make it the best meal possible?

Q: Where are your favorite weekend getaways?

A: Well, my wife and I love weekend getaways to New Orleans. Great food, music and culture. You just can’t beat it.

Q: What are your five favorite cities?

A: Birmingham, Atlanta, New Orleans, New York City, Philadelphia.

Q: Where would you like to go that you have never been to before?

A: I would love to go to Morocco.

Q: When you go away, what are some of your must-have items?

A: My computer, phone and wallet. [Laughs]

Q: What is your guilty pleasure when you're on the road?

A: Ice cream. I can’t have dairy for the most part when I’m touring because it messes with my voice. But if I have more than three days off, I’ll have some ice cream.

Q: What kind of research do you do before you go away on a trip?

A: I have to know what the locals say are the best places to eat at. Also, I need to find that off-the-beaten path hotel that has a great staff, but is low-key.

========

(Jae-Ha Kim is a New York Times bestselling author and journalist. You can reach her at www.jaehakim.com, follow her on Instagram and X @goawaywithjae, or read more from her on Substack (jaehakim.substack.com).)