Ruben Studdard UNCF Performance

[@iveywebb]

THEE BEST Ruben performance I've seen. I cried right along with Aretha when it originally aired. I've cried every single time since then. Wiping tears now as I type 😢💝.

[@wintersantiago2274]

Why didn’t he ask Aretha for permission to re-record this song? She was clearly feeling his rendition. This could have easily been his biggest hit. He sings effortlessly and amazing. What a voice!

[@evajones9896]

I thought the same thing!!!!

[@nycnycBarb]

Yesss

[@yvonnemorten7776]

Maybe he knew how personal it was to her and he respected that more than any monetary gain. He did it just to bring her joy. She said at one time this was a song that brings tears to her eyes always because she so missed her sister. All money ain’t good money. He did it out of love. Priceless‼️

[@kevinkilgore3346]

When you pay tribute to a great songstress and her late sister for writing such a beautiful classic, you sing it with the grace and integrity which it was originally recorded. Ruben did just that. Most young artists today would have tried to twist it and modernize it. But Miss Franklin can't be changed. She is the standard. Ruben was able to pull her heart because he did what needed to be done. Aretha's sister Carolyn died at the young age of 43 in 1988.

[@126tash]

I agree whole-heartedly most didn’t understand her emotion..her sis wrote that song, who had passed on. I have a new respect for Ruben, he sAng the hell out of that song which is one of my all time favorites...just WOW.

[@tinarjackson9844]

That was awesome then.. And even more beautiful now,! RIP 👑 QUEEN ARETHA!

[@Seremonii]

I agree ! It brought Aretha to tears so she obviously felt the same way.

[@livdouglas3410]

kevin 💛😉

[@vincejelineo748]

Very well said

[@lexichanel2843]

I pray she and her sister is sitting at a piano in heaven singing this song again!

[@KaissaDoumbeMoulongo]

Alexis Neal 😢❤️🙏🏿👸🏾🎶💔😢💕

[@williammitchell1804]

Thank you, Ruben Studdard. You did this song justice for Carol and Aretha. Keep on being you. Much respect.

[@KAMALAISHERNAME]

I've NEVER seen any other artist bring tears to Aretha's eyes..... NEVER.

[@KaissaDoumbeMoulongo]

THE READ QUEEN true! 😢❤️🙏🏿👸🏾🎶💔😢

[@reneemartin943]

Cause her sister wrote this for her & she is missing her❤

[@k.y3551]

@@reneemartin943people have sang this song for her before and she didn’t cry. Rueben made her cry.

[@-HRH]

Aretha’s most moving song. I wept until my eyes ran dry. Goodbye, Ree Ree 😔

[@-HRH]

Lisa Toro That's what moves me the most about this song. Her sister asked her to come over so she can pour her lonely heart out to her. Did she finally find her "angel"?

[@robinobee6425]

HRH me too 😢😢😢❤️

[@livencali1]

Awww! Seeing Aretha crying made me tear up! She must have been thinking about the old times. And Reuben's voice is so beautiful and mesmerizing. Aretha you are truly flying with Angels now.

[@WagnerCostaOfficial]

The queen of soul was crying because she was missing her sister who wrote the song for her 😢 R.I.P. ARETHA!

[@derrickburgess8185]

And her dear friend Luther Vandross.

[@111marcie]

Oh yes and she could barely hold it together, gripping what she was holding and closing her eyes. That song really touched the queen! R.I.P Queen of Soul!

[@mobutter2879]

Didn’t Ruben pass away too..?

[@WagnerCostaOfficial]

@@mobutter2879 NO, btw he's 42yo now.

[@ktterry6853]

TALK ABOUT AN UNDERRATED VOCALIST. SING RUBEN!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MrSpain29]

It's hard to get that kind of emotion from Aretha, but, this definitely did it.

[@deronreed2945]

yup

[@livdouglas3410]

oh my my......this is just awesome! Aretha look so beautiful , I fell her genuine tears, she misses her sister. .Ruben they got the right one to sing this song as a tribute to her. He certainly honor and respect greatness, just calm and smooth. the orchestra especially the pianist, background singers ...all flows together. Love it!!!!! I have played this over and over and over... so glad I found this on KZbin….. I remember years ago me and my 5 sisters got a limousine went to see her perform here in the Dallas Metroplex.....we had so much fun fun.... R.I.P dear lady! we miss and love you..

[@vickystokes2803]

I think she was emotional because of her sister and Rubens singing. he really sang beautifully so much so I was tearing up.

[@luckie6682]

Vicky Stokes RIGHT NOTHING ABOUT ARTIST ALL DID WELL THAT NIGHT!

[@sabirahmalika3335]

Vicky Stokes it is a beautiful song. I'm teary eyed too😥😥

[@latishascott8053]

😁😢

[@livencali1]

Me too! God his voice is so soulful and beautiful!

[@iansnyder274]

man, Ruben really reached me deep inside...so genuine..no gymnastics, just pure heart and soul....well done Ruben!!!

[@mariawilloughby5315]

Aretha looks fabulous in that turquoise! I love that, my favorite color. :)

[@angieoconnor7400]

Aretha is my Queen PERIOD, but I have never seen a tear drop from her eye ever. In a way it was nice to see because she is The named Queen, she takes on that role seriously.

[@reginasmith9014]

Angie O'Connor yes!! I agree, she took her title seriously and had much respect for it!

[@landerblockton9123]

What a beautiful rendition. Moved her to tears. Just beautiful.

[@foreverhungry7777]

When a tribute is done right. Telling a story, giving you something you can feel. 💔

[@JD54007]

Ruben captured the spirit of that song. He took Aretha back into the studio when her sister introduced this masterpiece. I felt part of what Aretha was feeling listening to Ruben!

[@90sKidsSchoolLibrary]

First time I have ever seen her cry!

[@JewelsR4ever]

I've seen her cry. But it's super rare. Believe that. I love my Queen!!!

[@ErikaMcQueen89]

Whitney Fan probably thinking about her sister Carolyn

[@adamribs6470]

yeah first time I've seen someone touch her heart like she's touched ours w/out showing off their vocal range. This song was meant to make Aretha feel appreciated tht she needed love like anyone else does. But thinking of her sis, it hit home. thks Ruben you brought the real meaning of the song smooth & sincere...

[@tinarjackson9844]

@@ErikaMcQueen89 she was I'm sure of it!

[@sandyfarley260]

I teared up with Miss Aretha during this song. Her sister Carolyn, who wrote it for Aretha, died in her early forties, from cancer after Aretha did everything in her power to try to save her. Bittersweet.....!

[@liechinglan15]

those backupsingers are the voice of angels.

[@ericagardner2298]

Only singer that night that brought her to tears sing it Ruben

[@ThisIsBrianMcKnight]

erica gardner it might not be his performance, she might just be reflecting on the past and how she felt when she wrote this and how far she’s come in her career. Or maybe she yawned ?

[@Cin2023]

Brian McKnight -- With all due respect, Ruben sang that song! Yes, he brought her to tears. Deal with it!

[@ThisIsBrianMcKnight]

cindi 0 I feel sorry for people like you.

[@luckie6682]

Brian McKnight I can agree with you actually that was one of the most touching songs she has ever done that reminds her of the sister that was close to her......Its a memory thing for all musicians like myself.

[@ktterry6853]

ALTHOUGH RUBEN IS DOING A WONDERFUL JOB I THINK SHE IS THINKING ABOUT HER SISTER CAROYLYN WHO WROTE THE SONG FOR HER.

[@rscotty45]

Did you see the look on her face. Great job brother, you felt the song.

[@blkjuanesrose7381]

Ruben bought Ms. Aretha to tears, she was trying hard not to break down, this song bought back memories for her. I have to get ruben his prop looking all slim and trim.

[@islandgirl5382]

I had never seen this Video before 2 days ago and as I watch Aretha drop her tears, with Dignity; I can only imagine she is thinking of Carolyn and definitely giving her approval of Ruben, the background singers and the talented musicians who accompanied him in this BEAUTIFUL CLASSIC!!!!

[@prettygrlcricket]

I love this tribute. Ruben really did it with class. I felt every word of the song.

[@Michelle-jz8vl]

Rip Aretha! This song is absolutely beautiful. Ruben did this song justice! Had Aretha tearing😢

[@chachacha850]

Being from DETROIT...Aretha was a requirement in our home...everytime my Aunt had a breakup...we listened to Aretha to help her get through it. I was SEVERELY affected when Aretha passed, her music always pierced my SOUL ...RIP QUEEN..Reuben good version ❤

[@MoniqueBoea]

What I love about watching all of these videos is she knew that we all loved her. RIP beautiful

[@heavenlygoddess5617]

Sing Ruben Studdard! You did justice for that song The Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin!

[@misstrmc]

You can tell this performance unearthed some pain in Ms. Franklin. Brought me to tears for her. That’s the power of music - good music. So grateful for all the years and the gifts she left us. God bless the Queen! Rest In Peace...

[@darrylcarter1459]

yeah all of the other tributes I've seen she didn't react like this-some say it was for her sister that wrote it. RIP Aretha.

[@islandgirl5382]

I can't stop replaying this video, looking at Aretha; Queen of Soul; R. I. P. !!!

[@rhondaunderwood9321]

Man, Ruben, I love this! I keep listening to it over and over. You did an Aretha Franklin song serious justice! :-) Good stuff! So underrated!

[@louenkleinsmidt]

This one messes me up everytime. Mr Studdard just gave it the right touch

[@datboi1975]

Written by Carolyn Franklin..my fav...ruben did that!!!!! Where is he? He needs to come back with something to feed our soul.

[@sydw9585]

Probably the best rendition of this song ever sung behind Aretha. I seen him in concert before and the man is gifted I wish him much success.

[@taiwoaminu9882]

you hardly see r & b singer that sing with ease & good voice like Reuben.

[@travismcdonald7831]

Sitting there reminiscing on the good days with her sister must have been sad and beautiful. I love Aretha she was one of the few real entertainers.

[@islandgirl5382]

I hope Ruben Studdard will be allowed to sing "Angel" at Aretha's Funeral! I know it is not Gospel but seeing that the title is "Angel"; and she is truly that , In my opinion in her honor I think it would be appropriate this final time.

[@slj8512]

Island Girl Me too, I dont think I have ever seen her emotional, this was beautiful!

[@Cin2023]

I was hoping he would... but looks like he got over looked. Its too bad too. 😔 I can think of one performance that should have been scratched...but..oh well. 🤔😎😡

[@CuirPhotodotNet]

....that....was a beautiful moment in black culture.....

[@RUTHE1ONE]

Best performance of the night. This is real music folks...written by Aretha sister and song my Aretha...The original version is a BEAST and this version is a KILLA!!

[@derrickburgess8185]

Just seeing the Queen cry my heart melted. Rest In Peace Diva.💜

[@KaissaDoumbeMoulongo]

Derrick Burgess ❤️🙏🏿👸🏾🎶💔😢

[@marvinking9848]

This song is touching Aretha deeply, being a song written by her beloved Sister, BUT NOW, she's with her siblings Erma, Carolyn, and Cecil.

[@karenwhite8680]

Ruben beautiful, Lady Franklin your Queen forever 👑💜💐🌺🌸

[@SEFYH]

Ruben better KNOW he had my ass crying during this performance!!! He really should take it to the studio!

[@RolandaV-NatureGoddess]

The moment she grabbed the program(paper in her hands) trying to ground all that hurt into it, I knew I was about to witness the 1st time in history the Queen break down😢 R.I.Paradise Queen ReRe👑

[@dancingdiamonddesigns413]

Ruben nailed this and Aretha appeared to really feel it. Perfect.

[@wealthy5702]

Rest Well in the Fathers Arms Aretha, you've been through so much. The pain is gone. Thank you for sharing God's gift with us.

[@melspc]

Just an awesome rendition of Aretha's song. Ruben sings so heavenly; he sings effortlessly. I just love the Velvet Teddy Bear.

[@twinmason8285]

She was so beautiful

[@kensou2828]

man this is the best of ruben

[@peacethomas6834]

#RIP to a #Legend 😢.. Ruben voice so smooth & he did a great job.. Me & Aretha was in tears 😍🤞🏿..

[@cassandrawilliams829]

Wow Aretha looks so beautiful i truly enjoyed this performance and Reuben Studdard

[@dondon8644]

Ps.Ms.Aretha has been through so much

[@lecuyerdooley1084]

That rendition touched Aretha's heart ... and not to be shady, but it ain't exactly easy to do that lol. Go Ruben!

[@kay22100]

Right!! 😂🤣😂

[@HighVibesOnly3x3x3]

Showing my age but, Word!

[@mavisbala3282]

cds'$#÷÷aSSSZ VFRFD#$$$/:;/$/:"';"//- ,&^ 6

[@brandim.9347]

All facts

[@beautifulbennett5801]

I cried like a baby. I have a sister named Carolyn who passed away. She was my angel

[@mrsbarbarav]

He did it! Oh yes Lord He did! Brought her to tears

[@MsOneleo17]

ALL HAIL TO THE QUEEN!!!! This brought her to tears. I remember watching this show.Ruben gave the best performance of the evening,no doubt.I Looooooooove ARETHA.

[@tania0070]

Rest in Peace Sistah Queen. Weep no more.

[@Emeless]

This was one of the best performances of the evening and good music can move anyone to tears. We can all assume that we know why Aretha dropped tears, but I would think it would be the reflection of her not having that "Angel" in her life, losing her sister Carolyn, her dad, Luther and a host of others that meant so much in her life. Long live the Queen!. Thanks for posting.

[@slj8512]

So many times over the years when I have watched this I wondered what was running thru Ms. Aretha's mind. Now today my mind did not go there because I have the peace of knowing she is an angel in God's holy choir. R.I.P. Ms. Aretha.

[@darrelljernigan3241]

Any artist could have attempted this song! Mr. Ruben was the best candidate for this dedication. Salute brotha!

[@vancemars1174]

Not only was Ruben SANGIN that song but you could tell that Aretha took a deep thinking about her little sister Carolyn because she did actually write a FEW of her hits and sang background for quite a while💯

[@Chaseieday7555]

Most beautiful rendition. Thank you Ruben! Rest Ms Franklin. We love you.

[@kamariatoure42]

Hell I'm crying too. I need an angel man in my life. Im sure that's what Aretha was thinking and feeling also. Every woman, especially a diva needs to be loved

[@chochief]

this made me cry thanks ruben and the queen

[@brandonpalmer4300]

His vocals on this song were so on point that I saved the audio of this video as an MP3 years ago. You can sorta appreciate his vocals while watching this LIVE event, but the thing about it is: When you listen to the audio--minus getting distracted with the wonderful stuff and emotions of the video--it sounds even better. And the sh*t was LIVE. Great job, man. Great job.

[@bobbymarsh1]

Brandon J. Palmer how did you do it bc I’d love to have it as well

[@bernlin2000]

He has such a nice gentle rasp to his voice that he uses carefully, it's really special and I think Aretha really noticed and appreciated his tone

[@brandnewtubesox]

Ruben looks so calm and unassuming that it's really misleading. I converted this to MP3 years back... and y'all his voice is really gifted... the difficulty of pulling off such a gifted voice without yelling is extremely high. at any rate, it's so well sung (with everyone watchin this dude on a stage... with Aretha Franklin watchin.. not in a studio) that it even sounds good converted at low bitrate by those KZbin to MP3 programs/sites. .... Do me a favor? Replay the video then close your eyes and LISTEN... You're welcome.

[@uwalkem]

Technically speaking If someone ever asks you what's SOUL music simply play this. And yes you are proper my brother in paying homage, this is one of those rare instances where a great performer reclassic-ifies a classic!

[@KaissaDoumbeMoulongo]

Bellicose City 👍🏿

[@godsson1860]

That was a moment right there... We didn’t see Queen show emotion much

[@network_isnetworth]

Still listening in 2021 got me through some hard days

[@pookie3093]

Aretha has fulfilled her blessed duty here beyond measure. My God, what a legacy, what a meaningful contribution she has given to the world. When God gives talent, when He gives gifts, He never half-steps. I am most sure we will miss her terribly. I hope she didn't suffer in her latter days. Right now, may God bring comfort to her family and friends. My heart is heavy because she has lifted up, and pulled up myself, and a great many people through song. And she was the best of the best that did so. Thank you my Lord, for bringing Aretha and her gift to all. Thank you Jesus!

[@KaissaDoumbeMoulongo]

Kevin Crump your words moved me to tears... you said that t all. 🙏🏿❤️👸🏾🎶💔😢💕

[@pookie3093]

Thank you so much. You make me feel good. God bless you!

[@betovenmoza6726]

I discover every day Blacks musicians and I thank KZbin. I love Ruben Studdard. A very big moment, especially when I saw Aretha shed tears.

[@shielercubie1228]

This song (Angel)💕was beautiful in my ears at six yrs of age now at 50+it is much appreciated at heart with love and meaning...Rueben Studdard you are amazing you did that🎤🎶R.I.P.😇 Queen Aretha you will always be in the hearts That God allowed you to touch forever for always you are loved🌹

[@seanbuchanan4961]

A outstanding performance. !!!

[@islandgirl5382]

What a BLESSED and EXQUISITE,TALENTED life she has had!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@islandgirl5382]

In another one of my solemn moods this evening; had to see Aretha and Ruben singing my favorite song by Aretha! Don't know how anyone can give a 'thumbs down' on this song, Just Evil and must be getting paid to do so!

[@beverlybeale6693]

Yes Ruben! I've played this over and over again. I got the same reaction....tears....so smooth/classic. Love it

[@dreRNME]

Hurry Back Big Ruben! We miss this type of singing!

[@gregoryeberhardt6470]

What really comes from the heart, will surely reach someones heart. Rueben touched Aretha's heart.

[@SEFYH]

I have loved that song since I was a child. It STILL makes me cry to this day.

[@lindabrown2090]

I don’t know who in the world could put a thumbs down on this performance by Ruben Studdard, singing this song. It’s obvious that they do not appreciate good music when they hear it. This is such a beautiful song! And he sings it beautifully. It even touch the one and only original singer of this song Queen Aretha Franklin.

[@kathydean6097]

I love his voice. No lip singing needed. Beautifully done.

[@chrisbeatty9280]

Her crying made me cry because I know how it is to lose a family member you were so close to. Makes you wish they were still here.

[@joyayoung7046]

I loved his version... kept it plain and simple and I felt his every word..

[@TomCatFromMA]

I found my angel and it's Aretha Franklin.

[@stellartunes]

outstanding. true, it's nice to see her vulnerable, and showing emotion. What an honour For Rueben, well done, and love his voice with that little crack. perfect.

[@siddharthnaagar7028]

Aretha and Carolyn died exactly 30 years apart and both from cancer. The two of the greatest musicians. RIP

[@nmfd72]

came across this today (Mother's Day 2019). Aretha was total LOVE, just like a Mother to us all. R.I.P. dear Queen of Soul!!

[@jazztasticd2478]

Just beautiful....

[@kimberlahill3310]

He touch. Her ❤️ heart

[@bobbietolson6621]

So beautiful queen rip

[@georgannduckett5503]

Omg...Ruben sang the hell out of this song. It's such a beautiful melody. The musician's in this was awesome! The voilins👍

[@lexichanel2843]

I feel for her at this moment because I have a sister that I am VERY close to and I can't imagine losing her

[@LeroyWareTravels]

Beautiful rendition. 🤴🏿😉

[@chrisbanks9679]

Great job Ruben! Every time I watch this video it makes me feel good. Mrs. Franklin was touched by your singing. I believe she was flooded with good memories of her sister Carolyn who wrote such a beautiful song.

[@Sangria3]

This is one of the most beautiful songs in the world. I love Reuben and wish him much prosperity in his career. He sounds like a beautiful songbird!!! Thanks for posting this one.

[@christiandivamd]

I would've loved for him to record this.

[@ohmy8689]

christiandivamd Me, too.

[@nat3asha]

that was beautifull, authentic and so so so so moving he delivered e true meaning of the song BIG REUB!!!!

[@cvc1814]

All Time favorite song by Ms Franklin

[@islandgirl5382]

Beautiful Song!! Aretha dropping a TEAR; Pass the torch Aretha, It's Still your song! No One does it like U!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@calvinhill9363]

She is thinking about a lot of things at this moment, Aretha went threw a lot of hurt and pain in her life, but she stayed strong even when weak, she was a hell of a woman, she dealt with everything she went threw until the end, what a QUEEN we had, glad I got a chance to see and hear her in my lifetime, it will never be another singer like her, thank god for giving her the gift to touch people in away no one could. R.I.P