‘Idol’ competitors vie in CD race

Ruben Studdard may have triumphed over Clay Aiken in the latest round of “American Idol,” but that doesn’t mean the competition between the two singers has ended.

In the race to release their debut albums, Aiken looks to be the winner, with an Oct. 14 date set for his untitled RCA Records album. Studdard’s album for Clive Davis’ J Records is titled “Soulful” and is due Nov. 11.

Both had been targeted for release last Tuesday but then were bumped back to separate release dates in September before being rescheduled again to the current dates.

Studdard’s album will include contributions from R. Kelly, Missy Elliott and Fat Joe, while Aiken is getting guest assistance from producers and songwriters including Steve Mac, Cliff Magness, Desmond Child, Steve Morales and Rick Nowels, according to Billboard.

-- Randy Lewis