The Velvet Teddy Bear at One World Theatre…

With the snap of a switch a burst of lights flash on, illuminating the glossy surface of the stage.  The velvety curtains are extended to the floor, with a splash of turquoise, magenta and purple.  Production crew runs around, making sure every microphone is set in its proper place and all sound amplification is perfection.  The masses start to file in, buzzing with obvious excitement in anticipation for the show to begin.  With the announcement of the overhead speaker, the first taps on the stair tread can be heard.  A dark shadow comes into the light, as everyone jumps into a screaming applause for the one, the only, Ruben Studdard.

While he may be known as the “Velvet Teddy Bear,” Ruben Studdard is one force to be reckoned with.  Filled with soul and charisma, Studdard first amazed the American public with his pipes and bravado on the second season of American Idol as the underdog from Birmingham, Alabama.   While he started off from humble beginnings, Ruben blew everyone away week after week and ended up taking the crown championship of American Idol winner.

He has since followed the win with five successful albums of gospel and R & B music (produced by Babyface, Ne-Yo, Jimmy Jam and Terry Lewis to name a few), a grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, and many, many tours under his belt.  Studdard has also branched out into acting, appearing on TV shows such as 8 Simple Rules and being a part of the musical revival, Ain’t Misbehavin’.

On May 7^th, Austin got a real treat when Ruben Studdard was featured at the One World Theatre.  Walking in with a cool confidence and a twinkle in his eye, this soulful artist got the crowd going with an array of songs, including some of his classic tracks, new music and even a few well-known covers like Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On.”  Like any seasoned artist, Ruben also connected with the audience, stopping to tell stories behind the music and tales of childhood and growing up in the South.  Throughout the set, his incredible voice and booming presence knocked patrons to their feet, while his joyful attitude and great sense of humor kept everyone laughing; a perfect combination for the evening.

It was absolutely mind-blowing that I, or any audience member for that matter, would be able to see this true and present star in such an up-close experience.  It was so personal, so superb that I actually forgot where I was, as all surroundings melted away and my eyes were only glued to Studdard and the glow from the spotlight above.  It was more than a treat to see this artist in a venue of only 300 seats, and actually feel his sound wash over you and infiltrate your ears like no large venue could ever provide.  Whether you want to see an incredible R & B talent like Ruben Studdard, Jazz, Country, Alternative or even stand-up, One World will always be able to provide that one-of-a-kind experience for any audience member and their favorite musical star.

A Real Classic: Pure Prarie League

“Amie, what you wanna do?  I think I could stay with you…for a while, maybe longer if I do…” If you were born anytime after the mid 1950’s, these words and music have been ingrained into your psyche as a true insight into American culture and pastime.  As the warm, melodic strum of fingers hits the guitar and the country-tinged sound flows down the ear canals, this classic song immediately takes the mind back to a time when rock n’ roll was king, life was simpler in so many ways, and there was nothing better than hanging out with friends and listening to great music.

It’s 2012, but here at the One World Theatre, Pure Prairie League (PPL) were out to prove that they still rock.  Forming in the late 1960’s, these rock n’ roll country boys of Columbus and Cincinnati finally burst onto the scene in 1974, when their little-known album, “Bustin’ Out,” produced the single “Amie,” that shot them to fame.  While the group had struggled in the beginning before finding any notoriety, their unique myriad of musical styles soon had audiences captivated.  Dueling guitars nearly shredded during a performance combined with a touch of country and a contributing piano, made this group of musical substance stand out among the rest.

While Pure Prairie League enjoyed great success in both the 1970’s and 80’s, they released their last album of nearly twenty years, “Mementos,” in 1987. While the group continued to evolve their sound, band members and tours throughout the next few decades, in 2002 they went back into the studio, and in 2005 released their long awaited album, “All in Good Time,” to great commercial and critical success.

Back on tour, the community of Austin couldn’t wait to hear this group ascend the stage again.  Performing to a sold-out show at One World Theatre, these boys had everyone captivated from the moment they hit their first note.  Playing faster than a cricket on a cool Summer night, this musical group charmed the audience with their lightning skills on the guitar and bass and smooth musical notes.  In between songs, the band proved they had a great sense of humor, even making fun of themselves for waiting 18 years to release a new album.  Among the new songs and old hits, the excitement and joy of the night was capped off with PPL’s modern rendition of “Amie,” which was the perfect way to end such a great night of music.

While One World Theatre always seems to feature fantastic artists from such a wide genre, it was remarkable to see such an act and piece of musical history just steps away from where I sat.  One World never ceases to amaze in its intimacy and incredibly warm feeling when seeing any artist perform in its theatre.  Being able to see a favorite musician perform live is great, but having the chance to view their show so up-close and personal in Austin is what makes this venue stand out from the rest.  If you haven’t had a chance, come by to experience your favorite artist in such an extraordinary way!