'American Idol' winner Ruben Studdard and runner-up Clay Aiken sign with BMG

According to People Magazine (link for subscribers only), American Idol winner Ruben Studdard has been signed to music industry legend Clive Davis' J Records, part of the Bertelsmann Music Group ("BMG"). Ruben will be spending Memorial Day weekend working on his new CD, which, according to Clive Davis, will combine pop, R&B and hip-hop-influences, and may include a collaboration with rapper Fat Joe.


According to Hollywood Reporter, J Records' roster also includes Luther Vandross, the ailing plus-sized soul crooner with whom Ruben is often compared. Planned release date for Ruben's first single, "Flying Without Wings," is June 3, and the full CD will follow in September. Clive Davis will executive-produce the CD, with Idol creator Simon Fuller serving as a consultant.

Meanwhile, Idol runner-up Clay Aiken signed with RCA Records, which is also part of BMG ... and also reports to Clive Davis. Clay joins oriiginal Idol winner Kelly Clarkson on the RCA roster. Planned release date for Clay's first single, "This Is the Night," is June 10.

Pre-orders of both singles continue to be available through Amazon.com.


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