Hmm… sorry to say I was disappointed. The ballads are boring… the uptempos are sub par… This CD could have been so much stronger with the right material. Think of Toni Braxton’s debut CD… Whitney’s… Mariah’s… all quality… Considering the amount of time they took to put together this CD, Im very much unsatisfied. Her voice is definitely strong. The material on the other hand… very mediocre.

Brian I agree with what you said 100%, I pick up a copy of her album 2day. I LUV Jennifer Hudson, she’s doing her thing. I hope everybody goes out and support her. She’s really talent.

I hate that they put “And I Am Tellin’ You I’m Not Going” so wack. But thumb ups Ms, Hudson……

Not enough to get me to buy the album. Sounds average. Guess it’ll be a download.

Brian, you are truly one of the best damn music critics out there! Thanks for keeping us in the {music} know!

Brian I disagree. I don’t think there is anything R&B about Jennifer’s album. This album is straight pop. I was extremely disappointed w/ the tracks posted. If the entire album consists of these types of tracks, then I think I’ll just keep my money.

I really thought JHud was gonna come harder than this. I was expecting something w/ soul & great (not that pop bullshyt) beats. For her to have worked w/ so many producers I don’t understand why all the tracks sound the same.

Not to be negative, but I don’t think Jennifer’s album will be successful.

@ #1

Cosign!

love the song “my heart”!!!

I support Jennifer Hudson all the way! There is a beautiful ballad thats out there. She sang live on the Steve Harvey Show. ” Giving Myself over to You written by Robin Thicke. I wonder if that song is on the album. That is a beautiful song and very soulful.

yet another reason you shouldn’t be reviewing music. great voice yes, good album no

J. Hud cd has some good songs it but overall it is just okay

I ran out and got the album first thing this morning………well Ms. Hudson has disappointed me. Its just ok, nothing special.She has such a great voice, but all the song sound like filler tracks and nothing to me STANDS OUT.I wasn’t an intial fan of Spotlight but the radio played it so much it grew on me. Pocketbook, cool not great. The album is just cute, but I expected soooo much more, especially since I had to wait so long for her to come out with something. Maybe her performances will sell this but I think this album will just fall through the cracks. I like Jazmine Sullivan’s album much better. Thanks for nothing Jennifer!

Jennifer Hudson’s debut fell short for me.
Her voice is still incredible, but the material did not mesh well.

I have to disagree with your statement OP, that this was a cohesive effort.
The tracklist arrangement was really off-putting. There wasn’t a chance presented to get into the groove because it kept skipping around.

All in all, “Spotlight” is the strongest song of the entire album.
However, there are 4 other contenders for standouts: If This Isn’t Love, We Gon
Fight, Invisible, I’m His Only Woman.

My suggestion: Put the 5 songs above in order and listen to what Jennifer’s debut SHOULD have offered through and through.

I can’t stand to look at her,muchless listen to her scream/sing/whatever…UGH!

This entire CD sounds like movie theme music. It is very dissapointing. Shes still riding the Dreamgirl train and she needs to move it on up to 2008. Hate it!

“I think the only thing I’m mad about is them slinging “And I Am Tellin’ You I’m Not Going” at the end of the album.”

Oh Gawd NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO……..Not this screaming mess again!!

I waited for this not impressed, expected more, she sounds like Judy Garland when she perfroms live.
I saw and heard he perform at the kodak theatre recently ( I worked the show), as a dresser asst. and many were not impressed with her live performance.
I will not will be buying the album, but I am going to download “I Am His Woman” the cut with Tasia, it sounds more soulful than the rest.
Sorry Brian, I don’t agree,the hype is over.I felt then Dreamgirl was all hype.
They probably put I am telling you so people would identify who she was album so long coming out.
Jennifer I am wishing you the best, just can’t buy album,only wise spending these days.
Thanks for the chance to respond here on the Loop.

I am a Jennifer Hudson fan until the day I die but I am completely disappointed with this album. Her vocal range is unbelievable and I expected more of a classical album than the commercial bullsh*t that is one radio today. I wished they would have gotten Diane Warren or someone of the other great songwriters on board her album. On a scale of 1-10 (greatest), I give this album a 7

I like Jennifer, she’s on the lists of artists I want to suppor this year.

I’m sorry,but this girl needs to quit trying to be a pop star. She just isn’t edgy/interesting enough. Maybe some more pictures of her kissing another female(hopefully younger this time)could give her the boost she needs for sales because the songs sure as hell don’t cut it!!

“Sorry Brian, I don’t agree,the hype is over.I felt then Dreamgirl was all hype.”

BINGO!!!! She waited too long after the success of Dreamgirls. The window of opprotunity is now closed.

@ #20 I agree with you… Jennifer waited too long to put this album out. All the hype was around her after Dreamgirls and after she won the Oscar, but her 15 minutes of fame is up! well as far as the singing career goes. She’s a great actress… maybe she should just stick to that. And I cant believe that she’s engaged?!? She just got into the game so doesnt she need to be focsuin on her career instead of focusing on a relationship? Look at Beyonce, homegirl was with Jay for 6 years before they even thought about marriage, the same with Janet and Jermaine Dupri

I really like the song “This Isn’t Love.” I’ll probably buy that and Spotlight off iTunes. I can’t listen to an entire CD of Jennifer Hudson. She should have put out an EP instead - 3 or 4 songs is all I can handle.

WOW! All the hate at J.Hud! Her cd is nice it is not bad. I like the song with her and Fantasia, We gon’ Fight, Giving myself, and Can’t stop the rain. I hate the song with her and T-Pain!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ugh! Not bad but could have been better. I am rididn Jazmine Sullivan’s cd a lil’ more though.

ok #13,15,19 and 20 I will bite, who do you think is a good singer with a great Album?

@1..

Cosign 100%

It wasn’t horrible but at the same time, it wasn’t anything special. Definitely nothing to be hitting up my gurls about. And the pocketbook song is not cute. Through out the whole album I was wondering what the plot was, what was the point of it. I know Cd’s aren’t stories but I just couldn’t get into it, it was just….mediocre. I think she was confused.

@20..

Exactly! Dreamgirls is why she is even doing all this sh*t so around that time is when she should have put out a cd. And I think that if Beyonce wasn’t in Dreamgirls she wouldn’t EVEN be this big. Because Dreamgirls was soo whack and I only saw it because Beyonce was in it, and I’m sure other people did that too. Therefore, Dreamgirls would have been straight to DVD faster than a lighting bolt. She did nothing special in Dreamgirls but scream her gut out, and after winning that Oscar nobody gave 2 sh*ts about her. I have yet to hear one of her songs on the radio.

And her voice can be unflattering at times. She belongs on a platform in a church in a long bright ass red robe, not this. A church would definitely appreciate all that hollering and carrying on.

This CD is totally AWESOME!!!! GREAT JOB JHUD!!!!!

where is mya @

J Hud…J Hud…J Hud…homegirl…I am so disappointed in this album, how could you allow them to put this out..as strong as a singer you are, the productioin..not looking so good! No catchy melodies…baby girl…..I am not impressed at all…spotlight was cute, Pocketbook…o.k. other than that…not interested….I am feeling my girl Jazmine Sullivan way..way…better…I can’t stop listening to that CD…

I’m buying the album after I get off work. I think I heard a track with her and T-Pain and it was a waste of a great song. I try not to listen to tracks on the net because it ruins the surprise.

Love the track with Fanny though…that is my gurl…

well its way better than the “popcorn“ music we have these days, good luck to jennifer hudson

“Dreamgirls is why she is even doing all this sh*t so around that time is when she should have put out a cd. And I think that if Beyonce wasn’t in Dreamgirls she wouldn’t EVEN be this big. Because Dreamgirls was soo whack and I only saw it because Beyonce was in it, and I’m sure other people did that too. Therefore, Dreamgirls would have been straight to DVD faster than a lighting bolt. She did nothing special in Dreamgirls but scream her gut out, and after winning that Oscar nobody gave 2 sh*ts about her. I have yet to hear one of her songs on the radio.”

CO-SIGN!!

My mother tried to force feed that stupid movie. To this day I haven’t sat through that mess in its entirety.

@Mel…thanks for asking

Amy Winehouse
Anything by Erika Badhu
Anything by Sade
Bob Marley…I can listen to him all day every day and it still sounds as good as the first time
Anything by Prince

“She’s a great actress… maybe she should just stick to that. And I cant believe that she’s engaged?!? She just got into the game so doesnt she need to be focsuin on her career instead of focusing on a relationship? Look at Beyonce, homegirl was with Jay for 6 years before they even thought about marriage, the same with Janet and Jermaine Dupri”

The verdict is still out as far as I’m concerned(great actress?). She can’t even pretend to be genuine in interviews. She always comes accross like a complete phony.

I don’t think Beyonce is the best comparison. She started out much earlier and is now married to a man 15 years her senior. Apples and oranges.

“She’s a great actress… maybe she should just stick to that. And I cant believe that she’s engaged?!? She just got into the game so doesnt she need to be focsuin on her career instead of focusing on a relationship? Look at Beyonce, homegirl was with Jay for 6 years before they even thought about marriage, the same with Janet and Jermaine Dupri”

The verdict is still out as far as I’m concerned(great actress?). She can’t even pretend to be genuine in interviews. She always comes accross like a complete phony.

I don’t think Beyonce is the best comparison. She started out much earlier and is now married to a man 15 years her senior. She practically grew up in the business. Jennifer is very new to this(and it shows). Apples and oranges.

Maybe she should have used the same producers that Mary and Jill use. You know, the kind of producers that make music for grown ups and not that bubble gum pop stuff. With Jennifer’s voice, she should not sell out to the pop world and the industry.

We will see the numbers next week.

Maybe she should try Broadway next. She has the voice for that.

Not sure, but I believe Jennifer is singing on Jimmy Kimble tonight!

@34.
Erykah’s last CD was a lil bit of a dissapointment, i have finally admitted that to myself, and she knows it too which is why New Amerykah vol. 2 didn’t come out late summer like it was supposed to.

and as far as the J.Hud CD goes.. it’s a debut. debut’s are not perfect, a lot of people don’t get it right until the 3rd, but she has staying power. Support J.Hud. she is better than a lot of the mess out there.
My favs were: If this isn’t love, my heart, i’m his only woman, and we gon’ fight.

Beyonce’s husband is not 15 years older than her.

Anyway, I haven’t heard most of the album, so I’ll reserve judgment. Spotlight and the song with Fantasia are INCREDIBLE!!

Unfortunately, I do see this underperforming. She’s been outta the spotlight (no pun intended) for too long since Dreamgirls, and the first track hasnt been a hit on mainstream.

i liked j hud in dreamgirls but i agree with the comment that she’s still riding the dreamgirls train…her voice, to me, doesn’t translate well into r&b…it’s WAYYYYYY big and i think she would have been in her element if she had recorded a gospel cd…spotlight was ok, the radio has BEYONCED it (is that how you put it?! lol) OUT!! and i’m a HUGE beyonce fan so no knocks to her, but j hud might wanna stick to acting cuz she’s real good at that but this r&b stuff…needs to die…just like beyonce need to quit acting cuz it’s really not her gift…

Why isn’t Bey a good comparsion? Yes she came out with a group in 1997 but she is the same age as Jennifer and she took her time before getting married. At least bey knows who her man (who is 12 yrs old btw still don’t get what his age has to do with anything how do you know how much older punk is as it relates to Jennifer) is while J-hud is about to get married to this dude she just started dating! She don’t know Punk ass and I wouldn’t even want him after New York had his ass.

Wow.. I guess most folks ears have gotten used to the nasaly one pitch tones of Rihanna, the warbling and lacefront slanging Beyonce, the Janet Jackson swagger stealing and nonsinging Ciara, the ghetto fabulous asthmatic cat on fire sound of Fantasia, to really appreciate J Hud as a regular R&B singer.l. no gimmicks, no drama, no tattoos, just good ol singing..

Go JHud.. I’ll support you..

One more thing.. Brian, I can’t really believe you as a real critic.. Cause you still saying Keri Hilson is the next hottest thing, blah, blah..but I’ve yet to be impressed…

Wow some of these comments remind me of how I felt when I bought Jazmine Sullivan CD last week,. There are a couple of stand out hits, but over all the album was not good. and it seems (from what im reading) Jennifer Hudson’s is the same. Thats sad too powerful vocals and they or the record company didnt know what to do with it

Why does everyone think doing pop music is selling out?
I never did understand that. Its a music genre thats been here almost since the start of music. Pop is music that appeals to the majority. Meaning its not catered to just one specific race or age group.

The sellout comments never made since. Especially, since some of the biggest black artist in the history of music were pop.

With that being said, I listened to Jennifer’s album and I dont think its pop. Not soul or pure R&B, but not pop either.
Who made the rule that every black singer should be pure R&B.
And like someone else said Jenny’s voice is strong but very loud almost to the point of shouting. Which I think is a better fit for gospel music instead of R&B/Pop.

But gospel doesnt sell as well, so I cant knock her for not doing it.

I AGREE THAT THIS ALBUM WAS NOT THE BEST, THE ONLY SONG I AM BUMPING IS “IF THIS ISN’T LOVE”……… BUT I THINK SOME OF YOU ARE GETTING RNB CONFUSED WITH “NEO SOUL” ………….BUT ANYWAY AFTER SEEING HER PERFORM ON THE VIEW, I FINALLY AGREE THAT SHE IS JUST A 1-IN-A-THOUSAND REGULAR CHURCH GIRLS, SHE WOULD HAVE DONE BETTER WITH A GOSPEL ALBUM…….AND SHE STILL NEEDS WORK ON HER CONTROL.

The singles sound ok. I thought it would sound better. I agree with a poster above about her songs sounding the same.

I like J Hud…but this CD is really bad.. I mean come on….yeah she can sing her butt off…but I was really disappointed. There are no catchy melodies and all those slow songs…bluhhhh!! And who could compare Jazmine Sullivan CD to this..Every song on her CD is catchy and interesting and different and new and fresh and dope..and she can sing and she is only 21…and she wrote every song…no comparison. If J Hud had control over her CD maybe it wouldn’t be so bad…don’t get me wrong I wish her the best but with today’s economy I can’t waste any money.

This album is HOT….I don’t know what some of you are listening to lol! Every song has a meaning, and she sounds BANANAZ on every track! And it’s selling like hotcakes….Wal-Mart had none left this morning when i went to cop it, and my friends are having the same problem trying to purchase….so that’s a good thing! Jennifer Hudson is the business…………

@39 I agree. Erykah Badu’s album was terrible, like you it took me a while to say that out loud. I was so diasappointed. However, I do think J. Hud is worth supporting, she may get it right next time.

I luv this album. Jennifer did her thang!!! One lesson Ive learned as an adult is you cannot please everbody…

UH oh yall, target just ran out too. She is really selling the hell outta this damn album lol. I can’t find it anywhere because walmart, circuit city, and best buy are sold out and the lady/trick at bestbuy was so damn RUDE! I guess i gotta wait until tommorro.

The song with fantasia is off the chain even though it’s a remake sound of shirley brown and barbara mason

I knew when I clicked on the comments someone would find a way to bring up Beyonce. It is not that serious that people have to bring her up every time there is a post about another female artist. Get a life people. You people act like she cutting you a check.

@ ME
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2008 /

yet another reason you shouldn’t be reviewing music. great voice yes, good album no

Very ignorant comment. Its his opinion. Thats why is called a review! If you don’t agree just say you don’t.

I think the album is a good effort. I think its good for her voice. There are only so many ways to market a artist like Jennifer. I think they did the best they could do for her.

Support our black women!

The CD is okay it’s not that bad. I like the very last song, and a couple of others. I think its a good easy listening cd.

Bryan,

Your music reviews are consistently awful. You spend two and a half grafs telling us about YOU, and YOUR initial fears, hopes, and dreams, and then tack on an anaemic paragraph about the album.

Constructive critique, bruh. Take the time to actually LISTEN to albums and self-edit before you post. These reviews aren’t nearly as much about what you thought before going in, as they are what the album SOUNDS

Also, add me to the list of people truly disappointed in the album.

#34
So do you think Patti Labelle, Betty Wright, Millie Jackson, Tanya Blount, Chaka Khan or Jill Scott can sing?

All of you Beyonce fans in J-hud fan clothing should stop hating.

I loved this album, esp. ‘We Gon’Fight.’ Tell me that song alone isn’t worth the buy.

VERY IMPRESSED!!!

I keep listening to the cd trying to feel something it sounds better than the first time. Like I said overall it is just ok and it is just that she had more than enough time to make a better cd. So far music has been bad this year.

I’m not a fan of the album but I guess it will grow on me

spotlight was okay and if this isnt love is a little better, dont think if im sold on this project

I’M LOVING THE CD GREAT JOB J HUD

I was so disappointed with buying her album…it sucks hard.

only like 2 good tracks and spot-light isn’t one of them..i hate that song.

kia carter
you venere beyonce but don’ t find jen hud talented? whoaaaa

Geezzzzzzzz only about 3 positive comments. I am scared to buy the album.

I was going to buy it to support a positive sister doing great things but uhhhhhhhhh 99% of you guys said it was not good so…………i’ll pass and kep that money since we are in a “RECESSION”.

I’m lovin it! Regardless of the negative reviews on CL, I think she turned it out. My favorite songs are, “I’m His Only Woman” (my JAM) and “Spotlight.”

Love ya, Jen!

I love J.Hud and I am a big fan. But like the most of you guys I was highly disappointed. This album was not for “US” she tried to please too many audiences and it just ended up not pleasing anyone. I really had high hopes for her, but sadly my girl did not deliver.

70% of those bad comments are HALCYONC. I don’t know where you got 99%. lol

The album is hot! Most of the negative comments are from stans of Beyonce. Go buy the album and judge for yourself. Jennifer outdid herself with IF THIS ISN’T LOVE, INVISIBLE, and I’M HIS ONLY WOMAN. Jennifer’s voice is simply gorgeous.

Forgot to mention another track that I personally love, GIVING MYSELF TO YOU. (tear jerker)

What kills me about people in general is that overall most people allow others to dictate what good music is. I think that the album is a great first effort for Ms. Hudson. I assume that because she played the role of a mature woman that many expected a album like you would get from a Patti Labelle. She is a 27 years old woman who just happens to have a big voice. I could listen to her cd from start to finish unlike Jazmine Sullivan where I tend to skip through, although I think Jazmine has a beautiful voice as well. People were so impressed by Alicia Keys when she first came out and really that cd was bull, but everyone thought it was the greatest thing. Come on, give JHUD a break. She has a far better cd than most out.

Wow, americans are crazy…and clearly have too much time on their hands.

The rest of the worl loves J Hud and can’t wait for her album to be released in our countries!

I LOVE Spotlight!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I love ‘If This Isn’t Love’!!!

Jennifer has a great voice until she starts getting into that hollering. Be glad you all got this album, because a while back, she was about ready to drop one, but they scrapped it because it sounded too ‘Broadway’.

Someone asked who are the real singers. You can find them all on BETJazz!

It seems like a few people(meaning two) were itching waiting for this post to trash her and just kept reposting. The album is really good. The important thing is she sounds great on EVERY song.

Who needs enemies when your own people tear you down.

Everyone says her music sounds too pop, well pop=popular music which includes lil wayne, jeezy, T-pain, and so many more. Their music has crossed over to the so-called “white/pop” stations, and is in the rotation just as much as a “black/urban”station. I like what I’ve heard so far, but it just seems as if everyone was poised not to like the CD because of all the hype. Every good rapper or singer has had good and bad albums whether it was the debut or 2, 3, 4 or 10th album. She is trying to find her way in the industry like everyone else. The music indursty is so wack right now, with the exception of a few artist, and most of them don’t get the credit they deserve.

I love J hud as much as the next but like Jazmine >>> and we already have enough Ballad heavy albums as of late, its getting cold and we need some pick me up music, ……

I think this Beyonce/Rihanna/Britney generation has gotten so use to listening to these manufactured products of the industry that you just can’t appreciate good music and REAL SINGERS. I listened to Jennifer Hudson’s entire CD and it is very nice. Give the girl a chance.

Im ashamed that people have been brainwashed into believing big voices have no place beyond gospel. Aretha, Chaka, Patti… apparently would never have made it in todays style over substance rubbish heap.

Whether its RnB or pop or rock or country its a fantastic singer and album. Thank God I got an album I can actually listen to back to back. I highly recommend it.

Congratulations Ms Hudson… good review CL

……..Awwww, I don’t like the Album. Every song sounds like she is jus singing words
…….. on a page. It took 2 months for Spotlight to grow on me. Imma listen to it again
…….. on my way home, maybe my opinion will change. But as for now, not really
…….. good….sorry. Altho I have to say J-Hud can sing her a** off. But i can throw a
…….. rock and hit a good singer…hell its 2008, 12 yrs can sing like they’re 25. She
…….. needs a little something more. Still love Jen…always will. but the LP sucks.

I’m co-signing with every mature, rational comment made in this thread.

Brian obviously likes the CD, could the review have been a little more focused on the music, yes, but his point was clear - it’s a good album!

First of all, suspend your expectations. You’re setting yourself up for failure when you expect her to sound a certain way and she doesnt meet your expectations. How can she? She’s not in your head! Musical tastes are more diverse than ever and there are many factors you have to consider.

This is her first CD and she didnt do any writing of this material so that should tell you that she is, not completely but ultimately somewhat powerless when you are dealing with the juggernaut called the recording industry.

Is Jennifer BETTER than some of the material she was presented for her album? YES! But you know what, there should ALWAYS be room for growth. Give the girl some time, this is her first CD!

You need to really sit down and give this CD a fair listen. In my headphones Jennifer sounds amazing. Crystal clear and strong, vulnerable when she needs to be and defiant, sassy, or whatever the mood calls for. In fact she makes the material better than it is with her vocals alone. Give her time and she will evole into an even more amazing performer.

It took me a few listens to really get INTO the album as much as I am now but I never felt it was a BAD album. This album is actually hot! She dabbled in a few genres of music but I say good for her! She can do that, well. This is an album Whitney could have recorded. Albums like this contain pop, R&B, gospel. Stop limiting yourselves. Give it a chance to sink in.

Jennifer definately has some stand out tracks on the album. I personaly enjoy: Spotlight (The mix is better than the original track that was released, it sounds more like the video version); If this isnt Love (hot song, they utilized her voice quite well on this): Giving Myself (this is kind of like a wedding song, which is usually NOT my style but Jennifer definately GIVES something to it, fyi - the track on iTunes is differnt from the track that leaked earlier, which is the same version on the pressed album version - I prefer the iTunes version - more nuanced, I believe the pressed version is the ruff cut of the vocal);

Pocketbook - very understated but almost throwback givin that the backing track is primarily comprised of beatboxing. Hot concept for a big singer, to only have beatboxing behind her. I have several video concepts for this song that would take it next level. Hot and sassy track. Jim & Tim did their thing. Next, and a lot of people will disagree with me here BUT I really like Whats Wrong (Go Away) with T-Pain. Sure, the idea of Jennifer versus auto-tune is outrageous…but to me, thats what makes the song unique and he plays second fiddle to Jennifers fine tuned delivery and passion. If this was sung by a standard vocalist it would just be another R&B song. With the addition of T-Pains vocoder, it gives it a slight edge. Unfortunately people are so turned off by T-Pain that they cant see the Forrest for the trees. Anyway,I could go on and on.

You Pulled me THrough, the Diane Warren track (yes I CTFU when I read that she should have a Warren track on her album…when she already DOES!) It’s the standard fare from Ms. Warren and at first listen somewhat unimpressive but now, it’s one of my favorite tracks. Jennifers sweeping vocals, the piano. Good stuff. I’m His Only Woman, the Jennifer/Fantasia sparring match is a great listen and they go at it. I wouldnt call it a scream fest like some have, I enjoy the passion of it. It’s Woman to Woman meets Fire and Desire. What yall know about THAT!

Cant Stop The Rain: Good, melodramatic song about drinking and driving and the angst over others irresponsability. Nice change of pace from the other tracks and jennifer gives it the brooding feel it requires.

Oh, I forgot MY HEART - sounds like a B-Cox joint. Has that swagger. I could hear Mary J singing this once upon a time. It makes your head bob when it comes on and really gets going at the end.

We Gon Fight, signiture Tank with a great gospel feel. This feels like raw Jennifer. I can expect more of this from J-hud as her career progresses, and it will! Strong slow to mid-tempo.

I dont need to discuss AIATY as has been talked about adnauseum. I agree that they should have left it off the album. Anyone who wanted to hear that song DID! Let it go Arista!

Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There. This is definately Jennifers comfort zone, although I believe she sold all of her material well you can definately tell Jennifer LOVES taking it to church! Put on your sundays best and get ready to sweat ya perm out. Jennifer ends her album with a soul stirring gospel track that takes it back home.

One last thing. Target is selling a version with the Bonus track “Stand Up” which is an amazing song. It floated around the net and was recorded about a year or so prior to the filming of Dreamgirls BUT they took that great track and re-recorded it, revamped it, and made it even better than before.

Anyone just writing this album off is PLAYING THEMSELVES! THis is an amazing start for an incredible artist like Jennifer Hudson, who will only get better in time, as she has proven time and again. Let’s get rid of our crabs in a barrel attitude and support this sista. There is so much that goes into putting an album together that a lot of people dont consider and I must say, at the end of the day Jennifer has really managed to put together an eclectic yet stellar album that she can be proud of. Who would have thought? I did! And just to think America didnt even vote her into the top 12. Randy did! And Im so glad for that.

Good luck Jennifer Hudson. Judging by the mentality of most in this thread, you might need it but - I think with a God given talent like hers - she WILL overcome.

………….Lets try this again

…….@ 57 …..I totally agree

…….Im sorry, but the album sucks. Don’t get me wrong, the chick can SANG. But
…….it’s 2008, I can throw a rock and hit good singer. She needed a little somethin
……. more. I begged the ppl at wal-mart to let me buy the album at midnight. And
……. I played it, I was soooo not impressed. I been listening to it all day, still not
……. moved. BTW She looks stunning on all the Promo pics

………….Lets try this again

…….@ 57 …..I totally agree

…….Im sorry, but the album sucks. Don’t get me wrong, the chick can SANG. But
…….it’s 2008, I can throw a rock and hit good singer. She needed a little somethin
……. more. I begged the ppl at wal-mart to let me buy the album at midnight. And
……. I played it, I was soooo not impressed. I been listening to it all day, still not
……. moved. BTW She looks stunning on all the Promo pics

….And I have to disgaree with 34, a lot of artist first albums are the most impressive.
…. I just feel like they got it wrong. And please ppl, no one is sayin J-Hud isnt
…. talented. Everyone knows she can sing. The comments are jus our reviews of
….. the album. She let them control (producers and writers) control the
….. direction of her album, so it’s not personal.

Some magazine, I think it was Rolling Stone, was concerned that her vocal abilities wouldn’t translate in the world of R&B/Pop industry. So maybe she just sat back & let Clive & co., control how & what to sing…I dunno. But the album wasn’t a good effort, however, I’m still rooting for Jhud. Hopefully she can get it right the 2nd time around.

What is wrong with you people the CD is great, there are a lot of excellent songs on it. She worked with so many amazing artist and producers… My favorite in order We Gon Fight (Tank), If this isn’t Love, Can’t Stop the Rain (Produced by Stargate, Co-Produced by Neyo), My Heart, I’m his only woman (Missy & Jazmine Sullivan)Just because she has a strong powerful voice does not mean she should be singing all R&B and Gospel. Her record labels intention was to make this an album that was not catered to one demographic group and I think they succeeded. For the comment above Diane Warren did You Pulled Me Through. J Hud’s Cd has such a versatile style and has a song for everyone. I for one am so glad that they didn’t try to make her into a Whitney Houston or Mariah Carey b/c that is not who she is. I would have hated a Cd like that. Great Job Jennifer, don’t listen to the haters from what I can see most of you didn’t like her anyway so why would you buy her CD. Definitely worth buying..

SOLANGE HAS THE BEST ALBUM OUT RIGHT NOW

@ 89

I co sign that a lot people are sleeping on Solange but her cd is the best one right now.

I think this CD is decent to ok, It is like a 6 out of 10. She could have come better,I think what she needs is some artistic point of view. Not something where you feel like she is just doing what the producers or writers want her to do.

As soon as I find the album I AM BUYING IT!!! I CAN’T FIND IT ANYWHERE. J-HUD IS THE BUZINESS!!!!!! I’m sure most of the people making the negative comments don’t even know what good music is. If you don’t have anything good to say, WORK ON SELF. It’s your inner hatred that seeping out.

@ 89 & 90

What’s up Solange.

I haven’t heard the album yet but I’m gonna give it a try since I love her voice. Soulful voices in mainstream R&B haven’t done well since Toni Braxton if you think about it. That’s probably why I’m so intrigued by her album. I heard “My Heart” and it isn’t my taste but its a pretty good song. I also heard “Pocketbook” which was NOT my taste but I also don’t think it was a good quality song. “If This Isn’t Love” I like so I’m gonna keep that track. Hope to hear more tracks from her album I like!

when it comes to album reviews, CL is dreadful because 90% of the commentators are Beyonce fans who know that JHud has a better voice so they slate her.

I was never feeling spotlight, but to say that Jhud’s voice could not translate to r&b is bullshit because Whitney had a big voice (mayb not as big as jhuds) and she managed to be a successful pop artist! Also clive davis managed whitney, like he managed jhud, if he wanted to he could have ensured this album went internationally platinum.

Aretha has a big voice and it translated well in r&b and pop/soul!!!

CL can’t be trusted on album reviews so I’ll go on youtube and check the album out for myself

Jennifer’s album is very, very good. I’m honestly surprised by the amount of negative comments, but then again you can’t expect everyone to like it. You can’t expect people to know good music when they hear it, either. Allz I know is I like it. Someone mentioned that they wished she had Diane Warren (one of the best contemporary ballad writers) write a song on the album–she actually does. It’s called “You Pulled Me Through”, and it’s a beautiful song.

Overall, Jennifer gets an A from me. Great debut material.

In the same way that Barbara Streisand put her broadway recordings on her albums…Clive INSISTED that Jennifer put “And I Am Telling You” on the debut cd…it makes sense, and WHO would tell Clive “no”? This is what she said this morning making her radio rounds to promote the CD…GO JHUD!!!

For all the negavtive comments im going to still get the album. I love jennifer hudson voice. Alot of people r so use to no good music today. There r alot of beyonce fan on here saying negative shit. Why r you bringing up her man for. She can do what she wants i know alot of you doing what you want. Punk seem like he a nice guy and he look good so please like come on. im going to cop it next week since it sold out everywhere. PEOPLE DO NOT KNOW REAL MUSIC. TEENAGE POP MUSIC PLEASE GO J-HUD.

eh.
i always said she should be singing gospel

um first song is hot not the rest

It’s obviously selling like crazy, because i can’t find this album anywhere! Wal-Mart has the damn poster up, but they keep damn selling out, bestbuy is out, circuit city is out, target is out, so I don’t know when i will be able to get this album….UGHH! I will try again on Friday.

#83 CL need to hire you to do music reviews. lol

93.

SALI
Wednesday, October 1, 2008 /
@ 89 & 90

What’s up Solange.

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LMAO at your joke I am NOT Solange but her cd is good IMO. J. Hud cd cool too I bought it so I am supporting her I don’t have io give it rave reviews…..

“So do you think Patti Labelle, Betty Wright, Millie Jackson, Tanya Blount, Chaka Khan or Jill Scott can sing?”

ABSOLUTELY!

“I was never feeling spotlight, but to say that Jhud’s voice could not translate to r&b is bullshit because Whitney had a big voice (mayb not as big as jhuds) and she managed to be a successful pop artist! Also clive davis managed whitney, like he managed jhud, if he wanted to he could have ensured this album went internationally platinum.
Aretha has a big voice and it translated well in r&b and pop/soul!!! “
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Since I’m making 70% of all the negative comments I might as well finish. Lol!

Whitney IMO is much more marketable. Although I’m not particularly a fan of that type of singing in general she has much more control over her voice and I don’t feel like she’s shouting at me. Plus, Jennifer’s facial expression when she sings scares me. I remember Simon mentioning this on American Idol.

Aretha is one of the best and one of my favorites of all time. She is an ARTIST. She plays the piano and writes her own music. This woman is a genius. Jennifer has a long way to go.

With those boobs, she makes a nice booty call at 2:00am.

#105

So your stance is that she can’t sing or she just needs to do more?

Because in all honesty she is a great up and coming power house under Clive. You have to remember Jennifer is coming out around so many other great artist i.e. Jill Scott, Alicia Keys and others. When Whitney came out they were not many, I recall only hearing Anita and Phyllis( two of my favorites), so she was able to shine and become so successful.

But if you think all the ladies that I listed can sing and are not shouting, then I can’t understand why you think Jennifer shouts. Heck Millie Jackson made her career on actually shouting. To me it seems like you have some personal reason for not liking her.

Oh and here is a tidnit for you, back in the day some people thought that all Aretha did was shout on records.

Music, if it is good is supposed to make you feel something. It is art. So if you can sing or if you can’t sing if your song makes people feel a certain way then it is doing its job.

But I respect your opinion and it was good talking to you. I like conversation like this.

I dont understand why people downing the album because the label desided to tune her voice down and record softer tracks like spotlight and pocketbook. I am so glad she aint screaming and hollering like “I am telling you”. Jesus can you imagine a album full of “I am telling you’s”. Everytime I hear that song I jam my ears or cut it off. This album is an upgrade for JHud.

Whitney was the first big voice that’s why she made it big and had hit after hit. And soon after Whitney came Mariah so yea Whitney had competition. Whitney just could sing better thats why she remained popular. And one of the strongest voices out here still

Ok I wasnt sure if I was going to comment because I’m a HUGE FAN of JHUD’s ….
For the most part, I loved Giving Myself Over To You more on the STEVE HARVEY RADIO SHOW where she sang it live…listen to that people & comment again On Youtube…I did go out early morning to buy the cd which usually I dont…maybe she should go somewhere else because she truly has an OLD SOUL and her voice is so powerful, its going to be hard to sing what the younger generation is listening to…she’s not a performer & these young kids want the booty shaking, drop it likes it hot & typically that’s not her…She’s a R&B kind of girl, unfortunately that’s not as marketable as this junk they’re listening to nowadays…Other artists sometimes takes several years before their cd’s are huge hits…These ignorant people think this young girl is a 15 minute one in a lifetime opportunist….WRONG…this girl has been non-stop busy since 2005-06…BUSY like there’s no tomorrow…

I will continue to support her because she’s going places…If Oprah Winfrey would have allowed all the negative comments to hold her hostage, she wouldnt be where she is today…Oprah sugguested to JHUD not to read the tabloids…Heck the news & the negativity of the news is horrible so I dont blame them for not allowing PEOPLE do control their destination…..JHUD keep @ this race called life and do what you do babygirl…STAND FOR SOMETHING OR FALL FOR ANYTHING…Keep Christ in your life..a fan

Yo I loved J~Hud from the Gate…and once i saw here in Dream Girls it Confirmed My thoughs of her being a Triple Thret…The Enitire Album Is Redickulously Sick, lol…I Love It and Everything affiliated with her (and the cut with Fantasia is Awesome…

Damn alot of you guys don’t know what your talking about…a bunch of haters seriously,,,,im pretty sure like 80 percent of the people that wrote hater comments listen to shitty music and have no clue about real music. Everyone always wants to catergorize people and she sure as hell didn’t let people by doing this album…it’s very versatile and she is defitnitley one of the best oice of our generation… People open up your ears….stop feeding into all the shit out on the radio that everything out their is very fabricated musically and image wise as well

I think the album is wonderful and I’m pretty sure her future projects will no doubt be bigger and better. I look at it as building up to a long and prosperous career in an industry that these days only allows you 15 minutes. Jennifer Hudson will be one of this generation’s future great singers. People need to seperate the talent from the material. I think she did a beautiful job with what she was given to work with and the album is made to appeal to everyone. Trust me I have been playing it back to back since I purchased it and she has something on there for everyone of every age. I freaking luv her and what she about to do for the music industry.

let Beyonce drop some less than sub par crappy album today. I bet my name people would sing its praises. Whatever, there just aint no pleasing people these days!

“So your stance is that she can’t sing or she just needs to do more?”

I do think she can sing. Don’t get me wrong, but she’s one-dimensional. I remember seeing her on BET with Beyonce and his was a screaming match.
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“But if you think all the ladies that I listed can sing and are not shouting, then I can’t understand why you think Jennifer shouts. Heck Millie Jackson made her career on actually shouting. To me it seems like you have some personal reason for not liking her. “

They may shout, but on key. Jennifer needs voice lessons IMHO. In all honesty, I don’t like her. I think she’s a complete phony. I liked her on American Idol for a split second-even more than Fantasia who I adore, but her personality ruined it for me.
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I enjoyed our discussion as well. Hope to talk again soon.

horrible album. mediocre at best

I think the album is tough. Maybe not for the teeny bopper audience or for the people who hate church and anything that reminds them of it, but there is definantly something for everyone on this album. I love We Gon Fight, I’m his only woman, Invisible, Giving myself, pocketbook, Spotlight. The songs that Brian put up here were not the greatest from the album. So don’t base your judgement just based upon the songs listed. I think some of you are just into show your booty music, not real singing. Some of you hate the fact that she is getting all the opportunities some of you have been dreaming about. But get over it. The CD is fire.

I don’t think some people can deal with a R&B album now in days that doesn’t sound like hip hop. The fact that ya’ll think Solange album is the best just says maybe Jennifer’s albums will never be for you. Everyone has different taste. I think Jens album is great. That soulful R&B sound ain’t for everyone. Some people like the light pop sounds. Jazmine is great, too. But there is not asmuch R&B Soul as jennifer’s. Beyonce fan, I am a Beyonce fan, but I know her music is strictly for the clubs and for the people who not really particularly interested in the voice aspect. Beyonce has a fantastic voice, but I don’t think that’s what ya’ll pay attention to with her.

I just came across a song that did not make her album:

http://www.zshare.net/audio/1991537498be8971/

Half you hatin’ azz teens must be on crack…I rarely agree with Brian and his overhyping of artists (that he really likes) but he was dead on with this album…Jennifer’’s album is a very stellar effort..and #5 you dumb idiot!!..I hardly call pushing 225,000 copies not selling..you must’ve fell and bumped your head..anyhoo…GOODLUCK J.HU!

as a huge fan of beyonce, i should say i’m different fromothers coz i also support all other female black artists, coz they are all making us proud.
i have the album, jennifer hudson, and i actually like some of the songs…can’t stop the rain, if this isn’t love, we gonna fight and invisible.
pocketbook has such a great beat that it doesn’t suit her, coz i keep on imagining the performance of the song, and i don’t see her switching on stage at all.
it is ok for a first effort…

I thorougly enjoyed this debut album by Ms Hudson. I’d hazard a guess that the distinction between those who appreciate this effort and those who do not is largely generational.

25 and 26 LMFAO your a loser B fan who’s still pissed that Jennifer over took that mole!!! B is not pretty, has NO voice and does nothing but rifts to make up for her flat voice. She can’t act for her life and is only known cuz she shakes her ass. DreamGirls was ALL about Jennifer and B ruined the whole movie even pro reviewers think so. B is crap and is angry that Jennifer took what she wanted AKA TALENT!!!

As a HUGE fan of JHUD, I can proudly say that she is a “DREAM” COME TRUE! Her voice is very powerful and ful of insparation. I find it comfortable for people like me who have a dream, to sing, or … show off any talent they have, to look up to her because despite of her haters, she never gave up till she reached her DREAM! -JQ

This album is decent, its grown folks music thats why some of you youngins are up in here hatin.