Jennifer Hudson is spreading holiday cheer with her new Christmas album, The Gift of Love, and she’s not doing it alone. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, the 43-year-old daytime talk show host shared how her 15-year-old son, David Daniel Otunga Jr., and her boyfriend, Common, played pivotal roles in bringing this festive project to life.
“My son helped name this holiday album, The Gift of Love,” Hudson revealed, referring to Otunga Jr., whom she shares with her ex-fiancé, WWE star David Otunga. While discussing her collaboration with Old Navy for the holiday season, she added, “He’s a holiday fanatic just like me. He’s been very present throughout this whole process.” The EGOT winner fondly recalled cozy moments spent by the fireplace watching holiday movies together, where her son even chimed in with his thoughts on the album. “He went ‘Mama, this song right here is my favorite song off of the Christmas album,’” she said, highlighting his encouragement and musical insights.
Released in October, The Gift of Love marks Hudson’s first holiday album and her first release since the Respect soundtrack in 2021. “Everything is family-oriented, even that process,” she emphasized, reflecting on the collaborative spirit that infused the project.
Beyond music, Hudson is passionate about instilling the spirit of giving during the holidays. “He’s always looking for gifts to give others,” she said of her son. “He’s a giver. And that’s how he was raised. That tradition is within him.” She continued to express how important it is for them to celebrate unity during the festive season, enjoying family dinners and togetherness.
This Christmas will be special as they return to Hudson’s hometown of Chicago for their annual celebration—what they affectionately call “flying in for Christmas.” This tradition underscores their commitment to family values and creating lasting memories.
Hudson’s album also features a collaboration with Common on the track “Almost Christmas.” The couple has been romantically linked since 2022 and officially confirmed their relationship in January 2024. Hudson recounted how their creative chemistry flourished during the recording process: “I was saying ‘Twas the night before Christmas and all through the house,’ and then he came in and flipped it and started freestyling it, making it really personal.” She recognized this moment as an opportunity to blend their musical styles into something unique for her holiday album.
In addition to her new music, Hudson has teamed up with Old Navy for their festive campaign titled “Love is in the House.” The campaign coincides with her album release and features her rendition of “Winter Wonderland.” Excited about this partnership, she expressed how surreal it feels to see her album available at Old Navy stores while she shops there herself. “To think I get to go into Old Navy and one, shop, and two, see my holiday album—that’s a Christmas gift in itself for me,” she shared.
Hudson’s love for music and family shines through in every aspect of her holiday project. With plans for a tour titled The Gift of Love: An Intimate Live Experience, which began on November 24 in Brooklyn and will conclude in Las Vegas on December 22, fans can expect a heartwarming celebration of music that reflects her personal journey.
As she prepares for this busy season filled with performances and family gatherings, Jennifer Hudson remains dedicated to sharing love through her music while fostering cherished traditions with those closest to her. With each note sung and every moment shared, she continues to inspire others to embrace the true spirit of the holidays—love, giving, and togetherness.
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