Ruben Studdard Seeks to Preserve Negro Spirituals with ‘The Normal Hill Jubilee Documentary’ Kickstarter Campaign (Video)

By Timothy Yap Sep 21, 2014 05:29 AM EDT

American Idol winner Ruben Studdard is urging fans to preserve the music of historical spirituals through "The Normal Hill Jubilee Documentary" Kickstarter Fundraising Campaign which runs throughout the month of September. Donations are being accepted via Kickstarter to fund the project at the link here:https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1309582072/the-normal-hill-jubilee

"Please join me, in doing something special, preserving a piece of American history," said Studdard who has found success in both the R & B and Gospel music genres.

The Normal Hill Jubilee Documentary will examine the evolution of an art form and the deep- seated need to express faith in song. This film will capture the untold stories from historians, Freedom Riders and include interviews with celebrities, civil rights activists and everyday people. This inspiring documentary is being constructed to understand spirituals, which are so prominent during times of strife.

Ruben Studdard rose to fame as winner of the second season of American Idol and received a Grammy Award nomination in December 2003 for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance for "Superstar." In the years following Idol, Studdard has released five studio albums, including his platinum-selling debut, Soulful and the top-selling gospel follow-up, I Need an Angel. He is most well known for his recording career, which has produced hits including "Flying Without Wings," "Sorry 2004" and "Change Me," but he has also segued into television and stage work. Most notably, he toured with Robin Givens in the comedy-drama Heaven I Need a Hug and in 2008 starred as Fats Waller in a national tour revival of Ain't Misbehavin'., which spawned a Grammy-nominated soundtrack.

Watch Ruben Studdard explain the importance of the campaign in his own words here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_Bq3Bo-IDNc

For more information regarding the project please visit: http://normalhilljubilee.com