J-Hud to Perform at White House Tonight

Chicago native set to sing at Obama Administration's first state dinner

Superstar actress and singer Jennifer Hudson will perform tonight at the Obama Administration's first state dinner, according to Politico.

The Chicago native, whose life was marred by tragedy last year, will sing for 320 guests at the black tie affair. Hudson performed at the Democratic National Convention in August 2008. Just two months later, her mother, brother and 7-year-old nephew were murdered, allegedly by the estranged husband of Hudson's sister.

Hudson, who launched her career on "American Idol" and has won a Grammy and an Oscar, came out of mourning to perform "The Star Spangled Banner" at this year's Super Bowl. She was recently tapped to play Winnie Mandela in a forthcoming biopic.

The Obamas have had several soul singers perform at the White House. For the Governor's Dinner, they drew on their Chicago connection and had funk band Earth, Wind and Fire perform for guests.

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