On his debut album, AMERICAN IDOL's second-season winner Ruben Studdard, like runner-up Clay Aiken, surprised some listeners by delivering a disc that presented much less teeny-bopper pop than might be expected, considering the TV show's audience. While Aiken developed a Barry Manilow-esque modern-pop/Broadway hybrid, Studdard dove deep into R&B, unveiling a surprisingly mature effort loaded with urban street credibility.

With 2004's I NEED AN ANGEL, the "Velvet Teddy Bear" once again proves that he is his own man, by recording a full album of contemporary gospel featuring songs by heavy-hitters Fred Hammond, Bill Gaither, and Walter Hawkins, along with the R. Kelly-penned title track. Though often compared to Luther Vandross, here Studdard does his best Al Green, with the smooth, nimble, bass-laden "Goin' Up Yonder" sounding like a combination of Reverend Green and WHAT'S GOING ON-era Marvin Gaye. "Fix It, Jesus," on the other hand, is pure old-school revival meeting, with a foot-stomping beat sure to raise the rafters and engage the spirit. A work that's both uplifting and highly accessible, I NEED AN ANGEL is a clear indication of Studdard's continued artistic growth.

Format: Audio CD
Release Date: 11/23/04
Label: J Records
Distributed by: Provident-Integrity
UPC: 828766262322
CShopper ID: CSMUS0780

1.	I Need An Angel			Listen
2.	Center Of My Joy			Listen
3.	Goin' Up Yonder			Listen
4.	Fix It, Jesus			Listen
5.	Amazing Grace			Listen
6.	Shout To The Lord			Listen
7.	Running Back To You			Listen
8.	Restoration			Listen
9.	We Have Not Forgotten			Listen
10.	I Surrender All			Listen
11.	Ain't No Need To Worry			Listen
12.	Don't You Give Up			Listen