Ruben Studdard Delivers Soul-Stirring Performance at The Studio At Mizner Park

By Joanie Cox Henry

Studdard Stuns: Ruben Studdard shines on stage in Boca Raton. Photo by Joanie Cox Henry

The Studio At Mizner Park in Boca Raton transformed into a sanctuary of soul last Saturday night as American Idol champion Ruben Studdard brought his aptly named "Masterpiece Tour" to an adoring Florida audience. The Alabama-born vocalist, whose velvety baritone first captured America's heart in 2003, delivered a performance that was both technically impressive and emotionally resonant.

Studdard's commanding stage presence was matched only by his vulnerability as he wove personal anecdotes between his musical selections. The evening felt less like a conventional concert and more like an intimate gathering where music and memories flowed in equal measure.

Between songs, Studdard shared heartfelt stories about the women who shaped his life. His eyes lit up as he recounted taking his mother to the Grammy Awards after his American Idol win. "My mama, who raised me on the classics, completely transformed into a teenage girl when she spotted Smokey Robinson," he laughed. The audience roared with delight as he described her whipping out a disposable point-and-shoot camera from her purse, abandoning all pretense of celebrity cool to capture memories of her musical heroes.

These personal touches—stories of family barbecues, his grandmother's wisdom, and his Southern upbringing—created a genuine connection with the audience that elevated the concert beyond mere entertainment.

When it came to the music, Studdard's versatility was on full display. His rendition of "Superstar" was nothing short of transcendent, with sustained notes that seemed to defy human lung capacity. His cover of Smokey Robinson's "Cruisin'" paid perfect homage to the legend his mother had once gushed over meeting on the red carpet at the Grammys, while his interpretation of Michael Jackson's "Rock With You" infused new energy into the classic hit. Another highlight of the night was Studdard's cover of "Never Too Much." He made the 1981 Luther Vandross hit totally his own, adding so much funk and flavor to this tune, which I find so melodically and lyrically satisfying.

Of course, Studdard didn't neglect the original hits that made him famous, delivering them with renewed passion and maturity that comes from two decades of artistic growth.

What made the evening truly special, however, was Studdard's authenticity and the harmonious chemistry he had with his band, which was equally as dynamic and talented. Eric Stuart Dubose, who slayed on guitar, was fresh off a Babyface tour. Studdard's drummer, David Smith, contributed riveting rhythms and impeccable timing, providing a prime foundation for Studdard's soulful vocals, while keyboardist John Jackson added unexpected textural flourishes that elevated the entire performance.

The Studio At Mizner Park provided the perfect intimate setting for such a personal experience, allowing Studdard's soulful voice to fill every corner of the venue without losing its emotional nuance.

By the end of the night, it was clear that Studdard hasn't just survived in the often-brutal music industry—he has evolved into an artist whose technical technique is matched by his emotional intelligence and storytelling ability. "The Masterpiece Tour" proved to be exactly what its name promised: a carefully crafted artistic experience that left the audience moved, uplifted, and thoroughly entertained.

For those who missed this unforgettable evening of soul, one can only hope that Studdard returns to South Florida soon. In the meantime, the memory of his velvet voice and heartwarming stories will surely linger with those lucky enough to have attended.

The Studio At Mizner Park always has something exciting coming up, including a 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. with Sheena Easton on May 3, 2025. Visit https://thestudioatmiznerpark.com/ for ticket information and more details on the latest events happening at this intimate venue.

Some additional images from this super fun experience: