As WBRC commemorates its 75th anniversary, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the station’s most significant moments, including the early days of American Idol. The show’s tremendous success and the viewers’ votes played a crucial role in launching the careers of several talented individuals from Alabama.
“Ruben Studdard was declared the winner of season 2 of American Idol in 2003, with a total of 24 million votes, as announced by host Ryan Seacrest.”
Ruben Studdard, known as the ‘velvet teddy bear’, put “205” on the map over 20 years ago as the first American Idol winner to showcase Alabama’s remarkable singing talent pool. Looking back on his career, Ruben spoke about the overwhelming support he received from his hometown. He auditioned for Idol to prove to people that he could make it, and his Grammy-nominated success is a testament to his talent and perseverance.
According to Studdard, he saw this opportunity as a once-in-a-lifetime chance and didn’t want to let it slip away. He was aware of the age restrictions, with the maximum age being 24 years old. Fortunately, Studdard was exactly 24 years old at that time, and he knew it was his last chance to be a part of the show. He took a leap of faith and went for it, and he is grateful that he did because it completely transformed his life for the better.
As Alabama’s finest talents took the stage, the audience swelled in size, showcasing the state’s rich musical heritage for all to witness. Even Bo Bice, the runner-up of American Idol’s fourth season, was embraced by the enthusiastic crowds.
Taylor Hicks, the winner of season five of Idol and a Hoover native, is known as Mr. Soul Patrol. He is a memorable figure we cannot overlook.
Hicks stated that in Alabama, people value three things: cooking, football throwing, and singing. He emphasized that those who excel in these areas receive immense support from the community.
During an interview at Dread River Distillery in Birmingham, Taylor spoke with WBRC about the impact the show had on his career.
According to Hicks, “It completely transformed our lives. As a Birmingham native and a performer who had been active in the southeast for many years, getting the chance to launch my career from that platform allowed me to remain in the entertainment industry for almost two decades.”
Back in 2006, the Riverchase Galleria was packed with a multitude of fans who were cheering on the season 5 winner known as the soul patrol. As he began to unleash his energy on stage, the audience mirrored his enthusiasm and went wild with excitement.
People from Alabama showed their support by filling up the BJCC, and their enthusiasm even reached the Governor’s mansion.
American Idol’s early years were a massive success, drawing in record-breaking ratings and a devoted audience that Hollywood couldn’t ignore. Even Birmingham hosted auditions during this time. Hicks believes that Idol paved the way for the multitude of singing shows that exist today, acting as a catalyst for the genre’s continued popularity.
Hicks expressed that having FOX6 present in Birmingham during that time, and throughout their careers, was a truly meaningful experience for everyone involved.
After his victory on Idol, Hicks has pursued various ventures, including acting, co-owning the popular SAW’s Juke Joint located in Birmingham, and securing a coveted Las Vegas residency, among other notable accomplishments.
Hicks revealed that he has imbibed the trait of never turning down opportunities and working hard while being kind to people. He attributes this quality to Charles Barkley, whom he looks up to. The Alabama native also mentioned that he is still following Barkley’s footsteps and striving to become better every day.
In addition to his impressive musical career, Hicks has also been featured on a Grammy-winning record. When he’s not in Nashville, he splits his time between there and Birmingham. Recently, he made a comeback by releasing his first single in 14 years called “Porch Swing”.
In 2023, Ruben dropped his latest album, but for him, nothing compares to the joy of being a father. He takes pride in touring the country and sharing his music with his fans.
