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Vocally, both women take on one of the most difficult songs to sing with ease, striking the full range of notes with power and pride. The difference? Houston was backed by an orchestra while Hudson was backed by a recording of her own voice. Yes, she lip-synched.
We know that Jennifer Hudson must be overwhelmed with a surge of emotion, singing such an important song and an important event and at a very pivotal point in her life. We also know that ever since the fiasco that was Nipplegate, show producers have been on edge regarding all live performances. But surely a singer of Hudson’s caliber is capable of singing live, right?
The show's producer, "American Idol" music director Ricky Minor, says that he actually requested Hudson lip-synch the anthem to a previously recorded track. "This was such an important performance, because it's the first time everyone has seen Jennifer. But she's in such a great place, with such great spirits, and time can heal her wounds. She's on fire right now and totally grounded," said Minor, who has produced a number of Super Bowl pregame performances, including Whitney’s. "That's the right way to do it," Minor said. "There's too many variables to go live. I would never recommend any artist go live, because the slightest glitch would devastate the performance."
Are you bummed out at learning that Hudson’s performance was pre-recorded? And do you think there will ever be another Whitney Houston? Check out both of the performances below and let us know your take in the comments. [US]
