This is a very good CD and is much better than Clay Aiken's. However, this is also the most adult American Idol album and is only suitable for teens. Although there is nothing too explicit, some songs are very sexual. There are a few bad words and there is one minor drug reference.
Soulful
(2003, Pop, by Ruben Studdard)
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Is it age appropriate?
About our ratings -
Is it any good?
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Common Sense says
A truly gifted Idol singer with heart.
Why We Rated This 
for Ages 11 and Up
The good stuff
What to watch out for
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Violence:
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Sex:
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Language:
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Consumerism:
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Drinking, drugs, & smoking:
What Parents Need to Know
This review of Soulful was written by Kathi Kamen Goldmark
Parents need to know that this is a fun CD that everyone in the family will like. There are a couple of edgy lines that keep this from being G-rated, but compared to most tween and teen CDs, this is a guiltless pleasure. You might want to ask your kids why they think other people have to be so "in your face" when Ruben is just as entertaining without any sexual, commercial, or violent messages.
Families Can Talk About
Talk to your kids about the media in their life. We have more tools and tips that can help
- Families can talk about Ruben's incredible voice and how body image doesn't always play a part in winning. How important is image for a singer? You can also discuss how being the "nice guy" goes a long way.
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More on Soulful
What’s the Story?
Ruben Studdard stole a lot of hearts during his stint on American Idol. We rooted for him because he didn't look like your typical pop pretty-boy; we liked him because he seemed like a sweetie; but we voted for him because of his wonderful voice -- rich, expressive, and soulful. Appropriately, Ruben's debut CD is called SOULFUL, and that he is. He doesn't disappoint, shining the most on the cover tunes: "How Can You Mend A Broken Heart" is a show-stopper. "Superstar," usually sung by women as kind of a backstage groupie's lament, is given an interesting twist with his straight-ahead, masculine delivery.
Is It Any Good?
On Soulful, Ruben shows off his phenomenal singing abilities to near perfection. There's a little bit of imaginary drinking and a couple of playfully sexy interludes ("What Is Sexy," "After the Candles Burn"), but this very mild CD is unlikely to offend anyone, particularly because Ruben's sweetness shines throughout. Although the musical arrangements and production fall far short of doing the singer justice, Ruben's amazing voice will make this a CD the whole family can enjoy.
Music Details
Released on: 12/09/2003
Parental advisory: No, Edited version available: No
Parental advisory: No, Edited version available: No
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Most Recent Reviews
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I rate this title pause for age 0 and give it
Nice debut album
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