Jennifer Hudson Writes New Song with Carole King for Aretha Franklin Biopic
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Former American Idol star Jennifer Hudson is releasing a new song for the soundtrack to her upcoming Aretha Franklin biopic Respect. Hudson is playing the music legend in the new movie, set to be released August 13. The star co-wrote the new song, “Here I Am (Singing My Way Home),” with music legend Carole King.
Jennifer Hudson Teases New Song for Movie ‘Respect’
“Here I Am (Singing My Way Home)” is set to be released on Friday, June 18. Hudson co-wrote the track with King, who wrote the iconic song “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” famously sung by Franklin in 1967. Jamie Hartman also wrote on the song, which was produced by will.i.am.
Hudson shared a clip of the song on Instagram, writing: “Music was always what brought Aretha back home, and this song is our tribute to her incredible journey.” She explained that pre-saving the Respect soundtrack will let listeners instantly download the new song.
SEE ALSO: JENNIFER HUDSON STUNS AS ARETHA FRANKLIN IN NEW TRAILER FOR UPCOMING BIOPIC
The full Epic Records soundtrack will be available August 13, the same date the film is set to be released. Franklin selected Hudson to play her in the biopic. The former coach of The Voice previously won an Oscar for her performance in Dreamgirls.
“Music is such a living and breathing character in this film, as it was in Ms. Franklin’s life. The process of creating this song was like constructing the greatest tribute I could possibly offer to her spirit,” Hudson said in a statement, according to Billboard.
What Was It Like for Hudson to Work with Carole King?
“Carole is one of the greatest songwriters of all time,” Jennifer Hudson said in her statement, “and whether we were trading stories, playing piano together over video conference or working through lyrics, it was always a masterclass — both in life and music.”
The film’s soundtrack will also feature “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” As King said in a statement, “I’m so pleased to have not just one but two songs as part of the Respect soundtrack.”
Respect, which is directed by Liesl Tommy, was also executive produced by Hudson. The movie co-stars Mary J. Blige, Marlon Wayans, Audra McDonald, and more. The release date, which was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, is August 13.
