Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Apparently, Jennifer Hudson’s been doing more than losing weight and filming Weight Watchers commercials lately, though it’d be easy to think otherwise considering how often she’s been seen on TV lately.

Today, Jennifer released her new single, “Where You At,” which you can listen to below.

And there’s more coming. The song is the lead single to a new album, “I Remember Me,” which will be out March 22.

Pre-orders for the album are being taken at Jennifer’s website, and those who pre-order will get a free download of the single this week.

R. Kelly wrote the single, and collaborators on the album also include  Alicia Keys, Swizz Beatz, Rich Harrison, Ne-Yo and Stargate.

The title track is based on a poem Jennifer wrote; Ryan Tedder is a co-writer on that track.

“I’m excited about this album because it’s almost like a renewal for me, reflected through the chapters of my life,” Jennifer says in a press release announcing the album.  “I’ve called it ‘I Remember Me’ because of the journey I’ve been on.  I’ve learned that life constantly surprises you, no matter your plans.”

Umm. Talk about surprises.

After finishing seventh on Idol in season three, Jennifer has won an Academy Award for her role in “Dreamgirls” and a Grammy for best R&B album for her 2008 debut CD.

Now, check out the featured video at right, of Simon Cowell telling Jennifer she wasn’t good enough to win Idol back in season three.

Meanwhile, Idol’s 2011 release calendar is filling out nicely.

Brooke White’s DVD/CD from “Change of Plans” is also due for a March 22 release. Mandisa plans to release her third album in early April. And Kimberly Caldwell’s first album is due out April 19.

Keep the good news coming, Idols.