Coffee Talk: Tamar Braxton to Release a Christmas Album

See why we’re adding a dash of cinnamon to our brew:

• After releasing her successful sophomore album, Love and War, Tamar Braxton is set to ring in the holidays with a brand new album. The most outspoken Braxton will release her very first Christmas project on October 22nd. It will reportedly feature a number of holiday standards in addition to new songs. The untitled album, according to Braxton, will bring a “whole lot of swagger and soul under the tree.” She’s not the only one planning to release new Christmas music, Mary J. Blige will release her holiday album on October 15th. [Centric]

• A source close to American Idol says Jennifer Hudson was indeed being considered to judge the popular competition show. Producers reportedly wanted to offer nearly $2 million. However, things went awry when producers began considering Jennifer Lopez for the position. The source also says Hudson had a commitment with Fox that wouldn’t allow her to participate. [Hollywood Reporter]

• Mr. Cee will no longer be on the air. Yesterday, the popular radio personality resigned from his post on New York’s Hot 97 radio station. The news comes after a drag queen personality posted a video on YouTube of her alleged encounter with Mr. Cee. Hot 97 General Manager Alexandra Cameron said, “Due to some personal circumstances that have become public, after 20 years of service, Mr. Cee has chosen to resign. We feel that this is in the best interest of both Hot 97 and Cee’s personal well-being.” [CNN]

• Scandal guest star Dan Bucatinsky, who plays James, Cryus’ husband, is teaming up with Shonda Rhimes to produce and write a new dramedy for ABC. The upcoming show, based on his book Does This Baby Make Me Look Straight, will follow the drama brought on by a group of parents whose kids attend the same school. Rhimes’ partner Betsy Beers will also get in on the writing and producing. There’s no word on when a pilot episode will be shot. [EURweb]