I didn't see the season with Studdard, so I am not familiar with his voice. What he's doing is a good thing and if he can keep kids and young adults off the streets and away from gangs, he may serve a greater purpose.
Agreed. Ruben seems to be a decent guy. His voice is pleasant, mellow and smooth. It's probably more in the general style of a Nat King Cole or Mel Torme than the typical guy singer these days, only he's not as good a singer as Cole or Torme.