Start early. At age nine, Jennifer brought the house down when she performed the gospel song "Ask in My Name" at her great-great-grandmother's birthday party. Hudson entered several talent shows as a child and teenager and began singing in her church choir at age seven. She felt at home in the church choir and particularly enjoyed performing with her grandmother and fellow choir member, Julia Kate Hudson.
Find inspiration. Hudson recalls listening to her mother's record of the 1978 disco classic, "Got to Be Real," and marveling at Cheryl Lynn's vocal range and power. Songs like "And I am Telling you I'm Not Going," by the Dreamgirls, also influenced Jennifer's style and fueled her desire to become a professional singer.
Study voice. Jennifer Hudson had no formal vocal training before getting her big break, but natural talent like hers is hard to come by. Most people require intensive vocal training to achieve a solid, five-octave range.
Maintain confidence. "Dreamgirls" writer and director, Bill Condon, notes that Hudson exudes extraordinary confidence during her vocal performances.
Sing for a living. Before "American Idol" and "Dreamgirls," Jennifer honed her talent by working as a professional singer on a Disney cruise ship, performing the role of Calliope. She also sang in a Chicago production of the Roger Miller musical "Big River."