An American Idol winner left a lasting impression on the music world by transforming a 1971 Carpenters classic into a Grammy-nominated hit more than three decades after its original release.Ruben Studdard reimagined the Carpenters' song "Superstar" into a brand-new version for the second season of the reality series. His performance of the song helped him advance in the competition and eventually earned him a Grammy nod in 2003 for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance.
“Superstar” was a perfect fit for Studdard because the song's emotional vulnerability and soulful melody played directly to his strengths as a vocalist. The song’s slow pace showcased his controlled phrasing and gospel-influenced delivery without theatrics.
Just as importantly, the lyrics suited Studdard’s personality, making his delivery feel sincere rather than performative. His ability to convey longing and intimacy helped reframe the Carpenters’ soft-pop classic into a deeply soulful ballad.
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Before the Carpenters and Ruben Studdard, Eric Clapton played on the original version of 'Superstar'
According to American Songwriter, the original version of "Superstar" was penned by Bonnie Bramlett and Leon Russell. It was first released in 1969 and called "Groupie (Superstar)" for the group, Delaney and Bonnie and Friends, with Eric Clapton on guitar.
Several late '60s and early '70s female vocalists tried their hand at recording the song, including Cher, Bette Midler, and Rita Coolidge. In fact, it was Midler's version that inspired Richard Carpenter to have his sister, Karen Carpenter, take a crack at the tune.
He said in the liner notes to the Carpenters box set From the Top, per American Songwriter, “Late one evening during the period in which we were recording our third album, I happened to tune in to The Tonight Show. Bette Midler, who was then relatively unknown, was a guest and on this particular show sang ‘Superstar.’ I felt the song was a hit and a natural for Karen.”
Ultimately, "Superstar" hit No. 2 on the Billboard charts for the brother and sister group in October 1971. The song would remain on the charts for 21 weeks in total.
Karen Carpenter died in February 1983. Richard Carpenter occasionally performs their music today.
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