The Urban Daily » jennifer hudson

J-Hud, Chaka Khan Confirmed For Whitney Grammy Tribute [VIDEO]

ReBecca Theodore-Vachon — Sun, 12 Feb 2012 16:00:32 +0000

In light of Whitney Houston’s death, the programming for tonight’s Grammy Awards is making room to celebrate the life of one of pop music’s most iconic talents. According to Ken Erlich, Executive Producer of the show, Jennifer Hudson and Chaka Khan have been tapped as one of the artists to pay tribute to Houston. In an interview with a CBS affiliate station, Erlich said:

“She’s (Hudson) had some very significant appearances on the show, it felt right to ask her to come and help us honor Whitney which she will do musically.”

Hudson received her very first Grammy for Best Album in 2010 from Houston. Watch clip below:

SOURCE

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FACT OF THE DAY: Jennifer Hudson Had A Record Deal Before “Idol”

The Urban Daily — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 22:21:35 +0000

Words By Adisa Banjoko

Before landing her career changing slot on “American Idol”, R&B star Jennifer Hudson had a 5-year recording contract with Righteous Records. It is said that Righteous Records put Jennifer through a rigorous year of charm school, physical fitness and live performance training before releasing her from her contract so that she could take part in the third season of “American Idol”, where she finished in seventh place.

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Hudson credits her Grandmother as her inspiration in her 2007 Best Supporting Actress Oscar acceptance speech.“She was my biggest inspiration, she had the passion but never had the chance and that is what pushed me forward.”

In January 2012, Hudson released her autobiography I Got This, but many critics were shocked to find the much publicized murder of her brother; mother and nephew were not mentioned in the book. Hudson is now most famous for her weight watchers ad where she credits the program for losing more than 85lbs.

Watch Jennifer Hudson’s audition from the third season of “American Idol”!

Take a look an JHud’s transformation from thick to thin below:

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Did VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul Live Up To Expectations? [VIDEO]

Darnella Dunham, Senior Producer — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 19:09:36 +0000

Putting Mary J. Blige, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, Erykah Badu, Chaka Khan and Mavis Staples on one stage for “VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul” automatically set expectations very high, but did the show live up to the hype? If you missed it, here’s the full-length episode of this super soulful show.

Get More: Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige and Kelly Clarkson Open The Show, Music Videos, Live Performances

Jennifer Hudson Tells Ebony Mag: “I Never Said I Was A Size Zero”

ReBecca Theodore-Vachon — Fri, 18 Nov 2011 00:05:06 +0000

Ebony Magazine rings in the holiday with their December/January cover girl, Jennifer Hudson. The actress/singer looking svelte in a ruched blue dress, addressed rumors concerning her recent weight loss. Jennifer says:

“I am going to finally address that size-zero thing that Joy [Behar] said on The View. Hell I wasn’t even on the show. I never said I was a size zero. I got crucified by I don’t know how many people who cussed me out because they said I’m putting out the wrong message and telling people to be a size zero. I got called every name under the sun and was told, ‘You should be ashamed of yourself for talking about being that size.’ Well, honey, when I do say I’m that size, then give me that speech. I never said that.”

There does seem to be major haterade coming J-Hud’s way over her new look. What say you readers? Does J-Hud have a right to be on the defensive? Share your views in the comment section below.

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The Truth About Jennifer Hudson & David Otunga’s Engagement

The Urban Daily — Thu, 27 Oct 2011 19:31:35 +0000

Yesterday on “The Wendy Williams Show,” Wendy revealed what’s really going on with Jennifer Hudson and David Otunga‘s engagement. Rumors that the two have split have been in heavy circulation, but Wendy’s hot topics team found out the truth.

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After reaching out to David’s publicist at the WWE, Wendy learned that the couple is actually still together. Jennifer and David have a son together, and hopefully this publicist was telling the truth!

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Take a look at Jennifer Hudson before and after her weight loss…

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Jennifer Hudson’s Fiance- David Won’t Sign A Pre-nup?

Shamika Sanders — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 15:21:09 +0000

I haven’t really focused on why Jennifer Hudson and fiance/wrestler David Otunga haven’t tied the knot yet but according to MTO and a member of Jennifer Hudson’s family it is because “[David] didn’t want to sign a pre-nup, and so they put the wedding on hold.”

Jenn and David have been engaged since 2008 and already have a two-year-old son.

Would you request for your lover to sign a pre-nup?

Ciara Vs. Jennifer Hudson: Who Looked Better At Paris Fashion Week? [PHOTOS]

Is Jennifer Hudson Better Thick Or Thin? [PHOTOS]

Ciara Vs. Jennifer Hudson: Who Looked Better At Paris Fashion Week? [PHOTOS]

The Urban Daily — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 14:54:54 +0000

Ciara and Jennifer Hudson were out and about during Paris Fashion Week, and both of them looked amazing. But which of these R&B ladies looked the best?

Check out the photos below, and please leave your comments at the bottom of the page.

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The Urban Daily — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 16:40:08 +0000

Getting skinny is something people are usually complimented on, but Jennifer Hudson has been criticized since dropping 80 pounds. Some say she’s lost too much weight, making her head look too big for her body. Others like her body better thin than thick.

Take a look at these photos of Jennifer Hudson before and after.

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Jennifer Hudson Has Set A Wedding Date

The Urban Daily — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 14:55:47 +0000

We don’t see them together much, but Jennifer Hudson is still with her reality star-turned-professional wrestling fiance and baby daddy David “Punk” Otunga. They’ve been engaged for three long years, and now she’s explaining why it’s taking so long for her to get her skinny self down the aisle. Her explanation doesn’t make much sense, but you can read it here.

Jennifer Hudson Has Intense Twitter Beef!

Lil’ Mo Sings Happy Birthday To Jennifer Hudson [VIDEO]

jazzyf — Wed, 14 Sep 2011 20:43:28 +0000

Jennifer Hudson’s 30th birthday was September 12 at Opera Ultra Lounge in D.C. Monday night. She celebrated with her close friends and family. Lil’ Mo was on deck to wish the Oscar award winner happy birthday and she did it the way only Lil’ Mo can do it. She sang the hell out of the happy birthday song for J-Hud.

Check out the video below.

9 Crazy Ex/Stalker Anthems

Jonathan Hailey — Wed, 17 Aug 2011 19:32:00 +0000

As the summer season makes its exit, so are men and women leaving summer romances. Depending on the people, most break ups are hard but you get over them fairly easily. In other cases, you’re distraught and can’t contain the outpouring of emotion. That’s fine. Do what you need to do to get over a person. (There are some suggestions here, ladies)

In the most extreme instances, one person in the relationship doesn’t understand when it’s over. Those are the ones who still call intensely and show up unannounced. A lot of times you don’t catch the subtle signs of crazy. The Urban Daily and I (@JaySpeakEasy) decided we’d help you out. If you’re in a relationship and they constantly play any of these songs–run!

Jennifer Hudson – “No One’s Gonna Love You”

Jennifer Hudson lets the man know from jump that there’s a little bit of crazy somewhere in her head. She sings about her going through some things before getting into the current relationship. The trouble arises when she starts talking about he better not send her to voice mail because all she’s going to do is text him. Here’s a tip: if you got sent to voice mail, the person doesn’t want to talk to you. Leave them alone and maybe they will call you back. But the calling and texting one after the other is a huge turn off and let’s me know you need more attention than I’m willing to bestow. Fall back.

The Supremes and The Temptations – “I’m Gonna Make You Love Me”

This is a duet between a man and a woman, the title should raise a red flag. Despite the song’s intentions of being a sweet love song, it comes off stalker like because there are undertones of forcing someone to love you. If they don’t like you, move on. People like this switch personalities like Lynn Whitfield in ‘A .’ one minute they’re sweet and loving and the next thing you know, you’re playing James Caan to their Kathy Bates in Misery. You all saw how that one ended.

John Legend ft. Kanye West – “It’s Over”

John Legend takes the role of the person being harassed after a break up. The girl in the relationship tried to change him. When he walked instead of caving to her demands, she became obsessive. The calling was non-stop and John Legend wants her to get it through her head that the relationship is finished. If you have an ex still calling and coming around, two things should run through your head, “What the hell was I thinking when I started dealing with them.” and “Damn, I’m good.” Whichever you prefer.

Jazmine Sullivan – “Bust Your Windows”

Jazmine Sullivan made a name for herself with this song about destroying an ex’s whip because he destroyed her heart. Homegirl busted his windows, scratched her initials in the upholstery with a crowbar, and went to town messing his car up. The troubling thing about the whole episode is she’s still crying at the end of the song. That’s reason to be concerned because that means the dismantling of the car wasn’t satisfying enough, which means she may do something worse to get her desired effect of making the man miserable. Plus, they’re crazy enough to tell you to watch them do it?! You better have them locked underneath the jail because the streets won’t be safe.

Lionel Richie – “Hello”

This track has ‘crazy person’ written all over it. Lyrics like “I’ve been alone with you inside my mind/And in my dreams I’ve kissed your lips a thousand times” showcase a person who is a stalker with good intentions. This guy doesn’t want to be a creeper, he just doesn’t know how to express his feelings verbally. Don’t let that fool you, ladies. Just because he doesn’t want to get crazy with you doesn’t mean he isn’t capable of doing so. It’s people personified by “Hello” that will chop you up into tiny pieces if you don’t accept their advances. Proceed with caution.

Isyss – “Single For The Rest of My Life”

The now defunct girl group’s biggest hit is also a stalker anthem. Think about it. These ladies sing, “If I can’t have you, I’ll just be single for the rest of my life.” Excuse me, shortie! You will not be single for ever because some guy doesn’t like you. If you feel that strongly about him, you might need to see a therapist in order to not go down that Glenn Close in Fatal Attraction road. No need for boiling bunnies. Find a new man and let it be over!

ISYSS – Single For The Rest Of My Life (Official Video). Watch more top selected videos about: ISYSS

Mya – Ridin

Mya is gorgeous, so why she can’t keep a man is beyond me. In “Ridin,” she drives all around looking for her man because she cooked him dinner and he didn’t come home to eat it. Some may say this song is more about a woman’s intuition than stalking someone. Those sentiments have merit, however, Mya’s on here because of the lengths she goes to in order to figure out if he’s cheating or not. No need to drive past his mother’s, cousin’s, baby mama’s, and his doctor’s office. No need for all of that. You just wasted a whole tank of gas chasing this guy when you know he’s out doing dirt. Gas is expensive as hell these days. You could’ve stayed home and went all Kelis “Caught Out There” on him.

Lisa Stansfield – All Around The World

“All Around The World” is one of the catchiest stalker songs ever. When you hear it you just have to bob your head. The music is infectious enough to distract from the stalker message. Stansfield is looking for her baby all around the world with no luck. If you couldn’t find him in the first three countries you scoured, you need to have a seat and do some soul searching. There are millions of men on this planet and you can’t find one? You and your stalker tendencies are the problem. Point blank, period.

The Police – Every Breath You Take

A lot of people mistake this song as a love ballad. Personally, I think there’s no way in the world those lyrics could be interpreted as pure love. If someone used these lyrics in general conversation, the police would immediately be called. (No pun intended.) I would not allow myself to be put in a situation where a female wants to know my every move. Actions like that cause claustrophobia in relationships. Hold up, back it up , and give me some space.

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Jennifer Hudson Has Intense Twitter Beef!

Shamika Sanders — Fri, 12 Aug 2011 14:44:25 +0000

Who knew that Jennifer Hudson was a thug! She was engaged in a pretty intense Twitter Beef with one of her followers/haters. According to MediaTakeOut.com, @1984Lips4Daze asked J. Hud a question on the social network and Jennifer responded with “lol u funny! Thank you for your hate n clearly the gym ain’t working for u cuz u look a mess.” That’s when all hell broke loose and @1984Lips4Daze pulled a Nas “Ether” move. She began to attack Jennifer’s husband claiming he was gay, called Jennifer “malnutritioned” and said she had stretch marks on the cover of Essence Magazine! Jennifer responded with “watch what u say cuz i might have to buy a plane/flight n show u some of my southside”

Jennifer Hudson Sings “Happy Birthday” To Barack Obama [VIDEO]

Jennifer Hudson Looks Great In New Pics

Jennifer Hudson Sings “Happy Birthday” To Barack Obama [VIDEO]

The Urban Daily — Wed, 10 Aug 2011 15:11:37 +0000

Jennifer Hudson decided not to channel Marilyn Monroe when she sang “Happy Birthday” to President Obama at a recent Democratic Party fundraiser in Chicago this week. Dressed in a tasteful black dress, Hudson showed off her svelte size zero but kept the sex appeal toned all the way down during her performance.

5 Movie Musicals We Love: Dreamgirls

J.Hud’s Fiance,David Isn’t Too Happy About All Her Weight Loss

CONTEST: Who Was Jennifer Hudson’s Man In Dreamgirls?

Regina Michelle — Sat, 30 Jul 2011 16:00:26 +0000

As a part of our summer movie coverage, TheUrbandaily.com will be posting a new Black movie trivia question and picking winners every Tuesday and Thursday. The more questions you answer, the greater your chance of winning!

So here is today’s question:

Who was Jennifer Hudson’s love interest in Dreamgirls?

CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT YOUR ANSWER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN!

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Jennifer Hudson Looks Great In New Pics

Shamika Sanders — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:04:33 +0000

Jennifer Hudson showcased her newly slimmed down body for the DailyMail where she also talked about her new size 6 and all it’s benefits. “I was doing OK before. But the truth is, so many more opportunities open up when you’re on the other side, as I am now. I’d no idea what I was missing out on. It’s like a whole other world. Suddenly every designer wants to dress you. It’s like, “You look amazing! Please, choose a dress. Have a bag. And what about shoes?” I mean, wow!’ said Jennifer regarding the opportunities a leaner celebrity recieves.

Click here, for more.

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Shamika Sanders — Sat, 02 Jul 2011 19:09:56 +0000

Usher, Jennifer Hudson, Miguel and Fantasia all hit the stage in New Orleans to perform at the 2011 Essence Music Festival. Charlie Wilson, Letoya Luckett, Taraji Henson and Hosea Chanchez were just some of the many celebs spotted backstage at the two day festival!

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5 Movie Musicals We Love: Dreamgirls

ReBecca Theodore-Vachon — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 18:33:06 +0000

Dreamgirls is the film adaptation of the Tony Award 1981 Broadway play. Dreamgirls follows the story of The Dreams, an R&B all girl group who rise to fame during the 1960′s. With a production cost of $80 million, Dreamgirls is the most expensive film to feature an all African-American cast. Dreamgirls was originally meant as a star vehicle for Whitney Houston (and later Lauryn Hill), but after languishing in development limbo for almost two decades, director Bill Condon, fresh off his success the success of Chicago, decided to helm the project.

Condon intended to cast unknown actresses in the roles of the Dreams, but Beyonce Knowles lobbied for and won the role of good girl Deena Jones. Anika Noni Rose, a theatrical actress and Tony Award winner was cast as Lorell Robinson after an a rigorous audition process. For the pivotal role of Effie White, over 700 actresses auditioned (including Fantasia and Raven Symone), but popular American Idol contestant Jennifer Hudson was given the role. While Beyonce had to lose 20 pounds on the now infamous Master Cleanse Diet, Hudson was required to gain weight to play the more voluptuous Effie.

Dreamgirls premiered in December 2006, and went on to gross $155 million worldwide. Reviews were generally positive, with most critics citing Jennifer Hudson’s and Eddie Murphy’s performances as the stand outs. Even Jennifer Holliday, the original Effie in the Broadway version raved about Hudson’s rendition of “And I Am Telling You.” Dreamgirls would be nominated for eight Academy Awards, including Best Supporting Actor for Eddie Murphy and Best Supporting Actress for Jennifer Hudson. Hudson would join the small rank of actresses who would win an Oscar for a film debut performance. She would also win a SAG Golden Globe,BET and NAACP Image Award for her role.

The Urban Daily lists five reasons why Dreamgirls is one of the best films that captures the evolution of black music from the 1960′s.

Jennifer Hudson–Hudson’s Effie is the emotional center of the film. You feel for Effie when Curtis (Jamie Foxx) elevates Deena to lead singer because her smaller frame and lighter skin will appeal to a more mainstream audience. To add insult to injury, Curtis soon breaks off his relationship with Effie to seduce Deena. Hudson brings an authenticity in her ‘woman done wrong’ and her show stopper performance of the epic “And I am Telling You” is worth the price of admission alone.

Beyonce--There’s no denying that the camera certainly loves Bey. Even though Hudson would walk away with all the accolades (and that shiny Oscar), Beyonce did justice to bringing old school glamour and beauty of the 60′s to her role. In a montage reminiscent of Diana Ross in Mahogany, Beyonce reminds the audience why she is the present day queen bee of R&B.

Eddie Murphy– gives a career-defining performance as Jimmy “Thunder” Early. Murphy’s comedic timing and manic energy were a perfect fit for the philandering, drug-addicted singer. Jimmy was talented but troubled, but due to Murphy, the audience empathizes and even forgives him for his tragic shortcomings.

Fact vs. Fiction–Part of the fun in watching Dreamgirls is watching the parallels between the fictional characters in the film and their real-life counterparts. Foxx’s character was based on Motown founder Berry Gordy. His relationship with Deena was similar to Berry and Supreme’s lead singer Diana Ross. Jimmy Early was a combination of soul singers James Brown Marvin Gaye and Rick James. The payola scheme used in the film’s script is identical to the allegations made by former Motown executive Michael Lushka, accusing Gordy of paying off DJ’s and radio station to add Motown records to their music rotation.

Music–for the film version of Dreamgirls the original score from the theater vision was kept intact , with the addition of four more songs including Beyonce’s hit single “Listen.” The soundtrack was #1 on the Billboards chart when it debuted in December 2006. The Dreamgirls soundtrack was nominated for the 2008 Grammy Award for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture, losing to The Beatles’ “Love.” However, “Love You I Do” won the Grammy that same year for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture, Television or Other Visual Media.

J-Hud Getting $1 Million Dollars For Book Deal?

ReBecca Theodore-Vachon — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 23:00:39 +0000

Jennifer Hudson can now add the title of author to her ever growing resume. The Oscar and Grammy winning actress has signed with publishing house Penguin Group to pen a memoir about her 80 pound weight loss after the birth of her son David Otunga Jr. in 2009.

Read full story at REUTERS

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Jennifer Hudson Cast As Nun In Screen Adaptation Of “Three Stooges”

Shamika Sanders — Thu, 02 Jun 2011 16:15:14 +0000

As music takes a backseat to Jennifer Hudson’s acting career, the Grammy award winner preps for a new role in the screen adaptation of “The Three Stooges.” Jennifer is set to play Sister Rosemary, in what will probably be her toughest role to date! She joins a cast that also includes Chris Diamontopoulos (Moe), Sean Hayes (Larry), and Will Sasso (Curly).

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Who Should Open For Jennifer Hudson In Aruba? Vote Now!

jazzyf — Mon, 16 May 2011 22:08:29 +0000

Soul Beach Music Festival in Aruba is going down on May 25th and ends May 30th. Jennifer Hudson, Chrisette Michele and Heads of State (Bobby Brown, Ralph Tresvant & Johnny Gill) are set to take the stage. Six finalist have been selected to compete for the grand prize, an opportunity to fly to Aruba and perform live as the opening act. Click Here to cast your vote today!

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J.Hud’s Fiance,David Isn’t Too Happy About All Her Weight Loss

Shamika Sanders — Sun, 27 Mar 2011 14:54:29 +0000

While Jennifer Hudson has slimmed down to borderline anorexia/bobble-head weight, fiance David Otunga expressed his dislike of the change. Jennifer visited the Jay Leno show where she was asked “What does your fiancé think, does he like the new svelte you?” Jennifer responded “He’s getting adjusted to it. He’s not really into change that much so he fusses at me like, “Why do you have to have to get all dressed up to go out and why can’t you just go out like you used to?” And I’m like “I’m a walking billboard now honey.”

Seems like David isn’t quite fond of all the weight loss.

Jennifer Hudson “Angel” (Produced By Swizz Beatz) [NEW MUSIC]

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Jennifer Hudson “Angel” (Produced By Swizz Beatz) [NEW MUSIC]

The Urban Daily — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 13:53:53 +0000

Jennifer Hudson grabs the husband and wife team of Alicia Keys and Swizz Beatz for this track from her new album, I Remember Me. “Angel” was written by Keys and produced by Swizzy.

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Take a listen:

Anybody else getting a Teena Marie “I Need Your Lovin‘” vibe from the chorus?

Jennifer Hudson “Where You At” [VIDEO]

The Urban Daily — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 18:15:07 +0000

Jennifer Hudson returns to Chicago to brave the harsh winter in the video for her R. Kelly penned single “Where You At” taken from her forthcoming album I Remember Me.

We aren’t sold on this song… or most of J-Hud’s material, but the girl can sing, and in these Keri Hilson/Rihanna days, her voice is still a breath of fresh air.

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Jennifer Hudson Sat In A Jail Cell For 3 Days To Prepare For Winnie Mandela Role

The Urban Daily — Fri, 25 Feb 2011 15:15:23 +0000

Jennifer Hudson sat in a South African jail cell for three days to prepare for her role as Winnie Mandela in the upcoming biopic, Winnie. Hudson says she wanted to “experience some of the hell that woman went through.”

In a feature on Hudson in Newsweek magazine, Hudson says that by her third day in the jail cell, where they were filming the movie, her eyes had sunken in, her hair was tangled, and she began having imaginary conversations with her son.

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“They snatched her out of her home and she had no idea what happened to her children,” Hudson says of Mandela, ex-wife of Nelson Mandela. “Imagine living that? This was her life! This was real. As a woman, I am angry for her, hurting for her. And as a mom? God, being in solitary confinement, away from my son just for five days when shooting those scenes—it was too much for me. I was drained and stripped down. I was changed.”

Hudson stars opposite Terrence Howard in the film slated to open later this year.

Recap Of The 53rd Annual Grammy Awards

Shamika Sanders — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:17:00 +0000

The 53rd annual Grammy Awards kicked off with a tribute to Aretha Franklin. LL Cool J hit the stage to introduce Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson and Yolanda Adams in an unprecedented performance of “Natural Woman.” Christina Aguilera redeemed herself from her mishap during the singing of the national anthem at the 2011 Superbowl with the best vocals I’ve heard on a white girl thus far! Aretha filmed a special thank you speech, appearing abnormally thin(for her) after her highly successful surgery.

Lady Gaga performed her new single “Born This Way “ for the first time with freakishly real, abnormal shoulders, makeup and transparent outfit. Not to mention she pulled up to the Grammys in an egg?!

Lenny Kravitz looked amazing.

With 14 Grammy nominations between them, B.O.B, Bruno Mars and Janelle Monae took to the stage performing one of the biggest songs of 2010—“Nothing On You.” While B.O.B looked like the man from the Monopoly box, Janelle stole the show with her natural beauty and signature bouffant singing “Cold War”

Bruno Mars and his charming smile sang his little heart out in a black and white Smokey Robinson reminiscent performance.

***Justin Beiber Alert***

Footage of the first meeting between Usher and Justin Beiber graced the screens of millions to cheese over. It was followed by a corny acting session between the two on stage. With Usher crowning the 53^rdGrammys as Beibers “time” Justin hit the first note on his guitar singing “Baby.” A couple of martial art moves later Beibs was joined on stage by Jaden Smith(who was wearing leopard jeans). Will and Jada were in the crowd smiling proudly and singing along to their son’s verse on “Never Say Never”

***End Justin Beiber Alert***

Justin joined Usher on stage for the same dance routine we have been seeing ever since “OMG” first came out. None-the-less it was the best performance I’ve seen from Usher in a long time!

Lady Gaga took home the Grammy for Pop Vocal Album over Beibs, Katy Perry and John Mayer. She surprisingly thanked Whitney Houston for inspiring her to write her new single “Born This Way.”

The Teddy Pendergrass tribute was sort of suspect, probably because it was performed by a white trio with guitars.

Jamie Foxx introduced Cee Lo Green but didn’t warn us that he would be wearing a costume that looked like it was designed by Missy Elliot, a 300 Spartan and showgirl. Though dressed like a gay chicken, Cee Lo’s performance was highly invigorating to an otherwise boring award show. Gwyneth Paltrow made an appearance wearing a jumpsuit with secy Louboutin’s and proved that she can actually sing before humping the piano.

Cee Lo and Eminem lost Song Of The Year to Lady Antebellum.

Seth Rogen joked about getting high with Miley Cyrus before introducing Rihanna, Dr. Dre and Eminem. Rihanna kicked her Side-Show Bob hairstyle for a sleek bob and paper bag dress. There was a slight technical difficulty with Eminem’s mic as Rihanna seductively walked to him from across the room. Dr Dre shortly made his highly anticipated debut which was as overrated as Eminem’s “Love The Way You Lie” song.

Esperenza robbed Drake and Justin Bieber of Best New Artist.

Finally Nicki Minaj showed her face, along-side Will.I.Am to present the award for Rap Album which Eminem snatched early for his work on “Recovery.” He thanked Rihanna for helping propel his album to such heights and bigged up Detroit.

Beyonce looked amazing as usual, although they only showed a glimpse of her.

P.Diddy looked absolutely ridiculous with gold fronts introducing Ri Ri and Drizzy. Rihanna heated up the stage,literally(cue the Illuminati rumors) and even got Drake to bust a wine during “What’s My Name.”

Record Of The Year went to Lady Antebellum and beat out Cee Lo, Jay-Z, and Eminem…very upsetting!

Album Of The Year went to…The Suburbs

P.S-Jay-Z and Lil’ Wayne were nowhere to be found.

All in all, I fell asleep three times during the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards it was completely BORING!

Jay-Z and Alicia Keys need to retire “Empire State Of Mind” and performance of the night went to Cee Lo Green and Gwyneth Paltrow followed by Rihanna and Drake! I know exactly what the awards could have used; a performance by…Chris Brown!

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Is That Really Jennifer Hudson On Her New Album Cover?

The Urban Daily — Wed, 09 Feb 2011 15:03:17 +0000

The cover of Jennifer Hudson‘s new album, I Remember Me, made it’s debut on the internet this week. The cover shows a remarkably svelte J. Hud.

Hudson, who also works as a spokesperson for WeightWatchers, has dropped quite a bit of weight since she won an Academy Award for her first film role in Dreamgirls back in 2007.

I Remember Me, which features the R. Kelly-penned single “Where You At,” drops on March 22nd.

5 Women Who Should Play Aretha Franklin Instead Of Halle Berry

Jerry Barrow, Senior Editor — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 14:58:46 +0000

With all due r-e-s-p-e-c-t to Aretha Franklin, we have to agree with Halle Berry that she probably isn’t the ideal person to play her in a movie on her life. Given her place in history as one of the greatest voices in music, you can’t have just anyone lip-sync their way through her biopic. At the very least the person should be able to hold a note.

Furthermore, we know that Ms. Franklin was one svelte Diva in her younger days but we’re not sure Halle could really capture the essence of who she was then and now. If the Queen Of Soul wants to keep it real, here are five women who could do bang up job playing her in a movie.

Queen Latifah

Dana Owens could be a fine Queen Of Soul. With two singing albums of under her belt (The Dana Owens Album and Trav’in Light) there would be no need to artificially enhance her vocals. But even more convincing was her performance as Liz Bailey in Living Outloud. She’d have no problem conveying Franklin’s regal swag.

Jennifer Hudson

The Oscar Award winning singer and actress is the fan favorite to play Aretha Franklin. Her looks, voice and acting prowess make her a fairly obvious choice. And with her new Weight Watchers sculpted frame she has the flexibility to play Franklin at different parts of her career.

Amber Riley

The neophyte from Glee has turned heads with her showstopping performances as Mercedes Jones. Finding someone with both singing and acting chops is key and Riley has both to spare.

Jill Scott

My personal favorite for any feature-length film lead Ms. Scott would put the D in Diva for this role. Her turns in Tyler Perry’s Why Did I Get Married? series and on HBO’s “No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency” prove she’s more than comfortable in front of the camera. And did we mention she could sing?

Fantasia

As one of Franklin’s closest friends Fantasia could bring an element to the role that most of the others on this list couldn’t. Not to mention her voice is probably closest to Aretha’s in power and style. Her stint on Broadway playing Celie in “The Color Purple” means she will need less coaching than most in front of the camera.

Who do you think should play Aretha Franklin in her biopic? Leave a comment with your own choice.

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Willow Smith & Drake To Ring In The New Year

The Urban Daily — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 23:05:14 +0000

Willow Smith & Drake can help you get your 2011 off to a great start.

The pair are scheduled to perform, separately, on this year’s edition of Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Years Eve with Ryan Seacrest (try saying that 10 times in a row).

Other performers on the New Years Eve institution include Ne-Yo and Jennifer Hudson.

The show airs New Years Eve on ABC at 10pm.

“Dead” Celebs Post Their “Last Tweet & Testament” [VIDEO]

The Urban Daily — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 21:52:24 +0000

In honor of World AIDS Day, several celebrities “killed off” their social networking profiles in the name of charity.

The “Digital Life Sacrifice” pledge was made by several popular celebs in an attempt to help raise $1 million towards fighting AIDS and HIV in India and Africa. Once the money is raised, the celebrities can go back to posting messages on their Facebook and Twitter accounts.

The project was put together by Alicia Keys’ Keep A Child Alive foundation.

Watch a few of the participating celebrities’ “last tweet & testaments” below, and feel free to donate towards their goal at BuyLife.org!

Alicia Keys:

Usher

Swizz Beatz

Janelle Monae

Jennifer Hudson

Jay Sean