Ruben Studdard paying tribute to Luther Vandross in Cerritos performance

CERRITOS — During his “American Idol” run, Ruben Studdard was hailed as “the next Luther Vandross.” See the Grammy nominee pay tribute to Vandross with the late legend’s timeless hits, including “Always and Forever” and “Here and Now” at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts (CCPA) on Sunday, Sept. 15 at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $40.

Dubbed “The Velvet Teddy Bear” by Billboard, Studdard celebrates the legacy and achievements of the eight-time Grammy-winning R&B guru in “Ruben Sings Luther.”

Studdard fills the evening with Vandross’ timeless romantic ballads such as “Never Too Much,” “A House Is Not a Home,” “Power of Love,” and “Stop to Love.” Variety magazine noted Studdard appropriated much of the late tenor’s nuances with “a smooth, deep burr without any real somersaults.”

Studdard became a household name after claiming the title of “American Idol” in 2003. In 2004, he was honored with the NAACP’s Image Award for Best New Artist and nominated for the American Music Award for “Favorite Male Soul/R&B Artist.”

Studdard’s first album, “Soulful,” earned him a Grammy nod for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for his rendition of Vandross’ single “Superstar.” Studdard’s 2004 sophomore album, “I Need an Angel,” was selected the No. 1 Gospel Album of the Year by Billboard.

His latest album, the romance-themed “Unconditional Love,” features collaborations with Stevie Wonder, Eric Benet, and Lalah Hathaway. Most recently, Studdard appeared on the Broadway production “Ain’t Misbehavin’.”

For tickets or more information, call (562) 916-8500 or go to cerritoscenter.com.