Rumors we like to hear: Jennifer Hudson to do a gospel album?

AceShowbiz.com reported a rumor that Chicagoan Jennifer Hudson may be considering recording a gospel album.

That’s the kind of rumor we like to hear. Let’s hope it’s true.

Such a move wouldn’t be surprising. After all, Jennifer’s breakout performance from the film Dreamgirls, “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going,” has gospel written all over it, from her dramatic vocal technique to the song’s pacing and explosive ending. And on her eponymously titled debut CD, Jennifer concludes with a stunning rendition of “Jesus Promised Me a Home Over There.”

Nor would it be unprecedented. Many pop singers who started in gospel made sacred albums in the midst of their career: Dionne Warwick, Brook Benton, Dee Dee Sharp, Roy Hamilton. Recent examples include Regina Belle and Heather Headley.

Jennifer learned her singing craft in part at the Progressive Baptist Church on Chicago’s south side, and she loves gospel music. So…why not!