"You know, Simon he's an artist representative, but Randy and Paula actually were in the industry as artists so they had, you know, the information that they offered to us from their aspect"

This quote by Ruben Studdard is referring to the judges on the program American Idol. Simon Cowell was an artist agent, while Randy Jackson and Paula Abdul were both in the industry as artists. This implies that they had an unique perspective to provide the participants on the program. They could offer insight into the industry from their own experiences as artists, which was important to the candidates. Studdard is implying that the participants were fortunate to have the judges on the show, as they could supply a wealth of understanding and experience that would assist them in their own careers. The judges were able to use recommendations and assistance that was based on their own experiences, which was indispensable to the participants.