Jennifer Hudson does what she does best on single “I’ll Fight” – does ‘Jennifer Hudson’ things. Translation – she sings her face off on this uplifting, powerhouse ballad.

When one things of contemporary, big-voiced divas, one of the first artists who comes to mind is Jennifer Hudson.  Rewinding back to her stint on American Idol, one still questions how Hudson ended up beginning an early boot.  What does it matter, two Grammys and an Oscar later, right?  Hudson, who’s released three studio albums, including her Grammy-winning, self-titled debut, returns with her first new single of 2018, “I’ll Fight.”

Jennifer Hudson serves up commanding, but controlled vocals by from the beginning of “I’ll Fight.” Those big, truly robust vocals she’s best known for arrive on the chorus. Even though they’re expected, producers AC Burrell, Bonnie Greenberg, Diane Warren, and Harvey Mason, Jr. do a fine job of making the expected feel more ‘unexpected.’ After a relatively restrained first verse, which begins somewhat abruptly, the second verse features more developed production and Hudson digs into her vocals even more.  The pacing and progression continue to ascend as the record progresses, with Hudson giving her all towards the end.

As far as the theme, this is an uplifting song, something that Jennifer Hudson has excelled at over the years. Furthermore, Grammy-winning songwriter Diane Warren has had a knack for writing truly awesome, meaningful, and uplifting songs throughout the course of her storied career. “I’ll Fight” is no different.  The chorus sums up the inspirational, uplifting, and determined spirit.

“So, I’ll fight, fight that war for you

I’ll fight, stand, and defend you

Take your side, that’s what I’m here to do

I’ll be there to be strong

Oh, I’ll keep on, keep on the fight.”

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, “I’ll Fight” is a strong ‘fight song’ for Jennifer Hudson. No, the game isn’t changed, flipped, or reversed, but Hudson still does powerhouse balladry better than nearly everybody else. Some may say R&B is “deader than a doornail,” but I’m not so sure.

Jennifer Hudson • I’ll Fight – Single • Epic • Release: 5.4.18

Photo Credit: Epic