Colton Rudloff
Music artist Band: Midnight Red
About Colton Rudloff
Colton Rudloff: A Pop Star Born in Buffalo
Born on January 17, 1989, in Buffalo, New York, Colton Rudloff has gone from singing in private to standing on some of the world’s most exciting stages, earning his place as a modern pop sensation. Best known for being a member of the boy band Midnight Red, Colton’s rise to fame is a story of talent, perseverance, and a little bit of YouTube magic.
Early Days in Buffalo
Growing up in Buffalo, Colton showed an early interest in music. Although he initially kept his talent to himself, quietly singing and experimenting, everything changed when he experienced American Idol during its first seasons. The performances of standout stars like Kelly Clarkson inspired him to take singing more seriously. He even auditioned for the show as a teenager but was deemed too young at the time. Undeterred, Colton continued to hone his skills, eventually sharing his talent online.
It wasn’t long before his YouTube videos caught the attention of talent scouts. Colton’s unique voice and stage presence stood out, proving that Buffalo had delivered yet another incredible voice to the world. One thing led to another, and Colton found himself on a path that would take him from his hometown to Los Angeles and beyond.
From YouTube to Midnight Red
Colton was destined for Midnight Red, but it didn’t happen overnight. Originally formed by Anthony Ladao and Eric Secharia, the group had a few members but needed one more to complete their lineup. That’s where Colton came in. His videos surfaced during the band’s YouTube search for a new vocalist, and soon he was flown to LA for auditions.
He described joining the group as a leap of faith—and possibly the best decision of his career. Midnight Red came together as a perfect blend of talent, personality, and passion. The band’s sound is an eclectic mix of pop, dance rhythms, and harmonized vocals, giving a nod to classic boy bands while creating something refreshingly modern.
Rising to Fame
Midnight Red quickly gained traction in the pop music world, aided by powerful support from producer RedOne, known for his success with artists like Lady Gaga. The group released their self-titled debut EP in 2011, featuring catchy singles like “One Club at a Time,” which became a National Dance Day anthem. Colton’s vocals were front and center as the band embarked on high-energy performances, showcasing choreography to complement their music.
Perhaps most memorable was Midnight Red’s experience touring with legends like the Backstreet Boys and New Kids on the Block. Performing as an opening act for these iconic groups gave the band the opportunity to connect with devoted fans of the boy band genre while learning from some of the best in the business. For Colton, it was like a masterclass in performance, helping him and his bandmates raise their own bar with every show.
Inspirations and Personal Growth
Colton has often credited his inspirations for fueling his passion for music. Kelly Clarkson, Adam Levine, and Stevie Wonder are among the artists he admires most. Beyond making music, Colton has shared his personal milestones publicly, including celebrating three years of sobriety in 2021, a testament to his resilience and focus on personal growth.
Fans of Colton also know his fun-loving yet grounded personality. Whether it’s sharing pictures of his two beloved dogs or connecting with fans on social media, Colton remains personable and approachable—a proud Buffalonian at heart.
A Celebration of Talent
From uploading YouTube covers in Buffalo to singing for thousands of screaming fans, Colton Rudloff’s career is a reflection of what’s possible when natural talent meets determination and opportunity. Midnight Red may have evolved over the years, but Colton’s voice, charm, and connection to his roots continue to resonate with fans.
For Buffalonians, Colton Rudloff is yet another shining example of the rich talent born right here in the Queen City. His success story is not just an inspiration for future musicians but also a reminder that dreams can come true—even if they start in a small town with big hopes.
Here’s to Colton and the continuous energy he brings to the world of pop music!