Pumpkins and skeletons are just starting to fill the aisles, but Jennifer Hudson is in full Christmas mode thanks to two big announcements on Wednesday (September 18). The singer and daytime talk show host is teaming up with Hallmark to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the annual release of their “Countdown to Christmas” holiday films and content and “Joy To Your World” 2024 holiday campaign, teasing the new song “Let there be joy.”
In a preview shared with Bulletin board of the raucous gospel-tinged holiday anthem, the EGOT frontman joyfully croons, “May there be joy in your world/ Every boy and girl/ Peace on Earth, good will to men/ And may the wall shine, make the season bright/ Share again a little love.”
In addition, Hallmark announced that songs from Hudson's upcoming debut album Holiday, The Gift of Love (Oct. 18), will appear in upcoming Hallmark holiday programming. “Nobody does the holidays like my Hallmark friends, so I couldn't be more excited to celebrate the season with my new song 'Let There Be Joy,' like we Countdown to Christmas,” Hudson said in a statement. “Music and movies have always been a favorite holiday tradition for me and my family, so I hope this song becomes the same tradition for everyone on Santa's list this year!”
Hallmark CEO Darren Abbott added: “As we celebrate 15 incredible years Countdown to Christmaswe continue to focus on our mission to bring joy and happiness to the world during the holidays. Working with Jennifer Hudson couldn't be more perfect. The original song “Let There Be Joy” captures the heart and soul of what we aim to share every holiday season — pure, genuine joy. We are thrilled to share this magical experience and continue our tradition of making the holidays brighter and happier than ever.”
Additionally, Hudson has announced a limited-edition holiday tour, The Gift of Love: An Intimate Live Experience, which will kick off Nov. 24 in Brooklyn, followed by shows in Chicago (Dec. 13), Los Angeles (Dec. 18 ) and Las Vegas (December 21-22). tickets for the concerts go on sale Friday (September 20) at 10am. local time here.
Hudson's first holiday album will feature covers of such classics as “Jingle Bells,” “O Holy Night,” “Winter Wonderland,” “Little Drummer Boy” and “Auld Lang Syne,” along with a number of originals.
Watch Hudson's tour announcement below.
from our partners at https://www.billboard.com/music/rb-hip-hop/jennifer-hudson-hallmark-let-there-be-joy-single-holiday-tour-dates-1235778616/
