After parting ways with RCA Records, Jennifer Hudson has found a new home at Epic Records. The news came from Epic Chairman and CEO L.A. Reid.
“Jennifer Hudson is the defining voice of this generation,” Reid said in a statement. “Her award-winning presence on records, in film, and on stage establishes her as one of the premiere artists to emerge in this century. I’m enjoying collaborating with my friend and mentor Clive Davis on Jennifer’s first Epic album and excited for her fans to hear what we’re up to… all will be revealed soon!”
Hudson’s new album will mark Reid and Davis’ first time collaborating in nearly 25 years.The last time they worked together was on Whitney Houston’s groundbreaking Bodyguard soundtrack, which was released in 1992.
“I signed Jennifer in 2007 believing her to be the strongest candidate as the next generation’s Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston,” Davis said. “She has become that, as LA and I excitingly reunite to capture Jennifer at her all time best.” Hudson, who wowed the crowd on Sunday night at the BET Awards with her soaring rendition of Prince’s “Purple Rain,” said she was eager to get to work on the next phase of her career.
Hudson also shared her enthusiasm about her new venture.
“I couldn’t be more excited to embark on this new chapter with two of the most prolific musical legends of this generation,” she said. “There is no doubt that this is just the beginning of a very special collaboration and I know that the result will be something unforgettable. I am looking forward to the creative process and sharing new music very soon!”
Hudson has released three solo albums thus far: Jennifer Hudson (2008), I Remember Me (2011) and JHUD (2014).