Jennifer Hudson to Release Debut Album Next Year

Jennifer Hudson, who is earning much positive buzz for her star turn as Effie in the upcoming Dreamgirls film, has signed with Arista Records.

The record company will release the debut album of the performer, who was previously an "American Idol" finalist and who recently appeared in the Actors' Fund benefit concert of The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas.  Hudson will begin recording the CD next year, according to the Post Chronicle.

"Jennifer is a vocal wonder, a tremendously gifted artist.  Her extraordinary voice gives her a signature sound and distinguishes her from every singer on the horizon today. Jennifer is a very exciting new addition to the Arista family," said Arista founder Clive Davis.  Whitney Houston and Aretha Franklin are among other vocalists who have been signed with Arista.

The Dreamgirls film, directed by Bill Condon, will open in wide release on Christmas day.  Eddie Murphy, Beyonce Knowles, Jamie Foxx, and Broadway's Anika Noni Rose are among its other stars.  The film is based on Henry Krieger and Tom Eyen's 1981 Broadway hit, originally staged by Michael Bennett.