Jennifer Hudson expressed how “beautiful” it would be to possibly participate in a “Verzuz” battle alongside her American Idol alum Fantasia Barrino on Thursday, Aug. 5, during an interview with “Big Tigger Morning Show.” “Verzuz” is a web series that highlights artists’ biggest hits and collaborations as they compete against each other during a 20-round match-up. The series was created during the global pandemic last year by Swizz Beatz and Timbaland.
Hudson was on a press tour for her new film “Respect,” a biography based on the life of the late great Aretha Franklin, when she was asked the million-dollar question.
The 39-year-old told the hosts after revealing how she “lived” for “Verzuz” battles, “That’s a dope idea.” She added, without disclosing any other information, “That’s a beautiful idea. Maybe one day we can make that happen. Maybe one day.”
Hudson concluded the conversation by listing her own picks that she would like to see hit the “Verzuz” stage, including legendary artists Smokey Robinson and Stevie Wonder.
As the interview clip of Hudson seemingly accepting an invitation to the “Verzuz” battle with Barrino started circulating through social media, many people voiced how they couldn’t wait to see this competition become a reality.
“Now THAT I’ll be locked in for… cuz FREE YOURSELF is my shiiiiii.”
“Oh let me get me soul food menu together for this!!!”
“I can hear my ear drums ringing now 😩😭😭.”
“This would definitely be a good battle.”
“Omg this would be epic 🙌.”
Both Hudson and Barrino previously competed in the singing competition series “American Idol” in 2004. In the series, Hudson was a top-seven finalist before voters ended her run on the show. Barrino ultimately won the season-three “American Idol” title.
Since then, both women have had successful careers in the entertainment industry. Hudson starred in several films such as “Sex and the City” and “Dreamgirls.” She went on to win a Golden Globe and an Oscar for her portrayal as Effie White in the 2006 musical. The mother of one also has two Grammy Music Awards under her lists of achievements.
Barrino has released seven studio albums and has sold millions of copies worldwide. She also was awarded a Grammy Music Award in 2011 for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance for her song “Bittersweet.”
Despite all of the excitement from Hudson’s approval for the battle, there’s no official date in place for a battle. Barrino also has yet to react to Hudson’s statements.
