Jennifer Hudson’s circuitous route to success is further proof that actually winning “American Idol” is hardly a necessity. Sometimes talent wills out.
So it’s a little odd that the Oscar-winning “Dreamgirl” has chosen the “please all the people” blueprint for her long-in-coming solo debut instead of taking the play-to-your-strengths route that fellow “Idol” contestant Daughtry took.
But never mind that “Jennifer Hudson,” out today, hopscotches from gritty urban soul to glossy adult contemporary pop to the song that clinched her the little gold statue — “And I’m Telling You I’m Not Going.” Hudson ties it all together with her titanic vocal prowess and emotional conviction. Despite its flaws, Hudson’s debut comes on much like her “Dreamgirls” character, with admirable self-assurance and real-girl sensuality.
