FANTASIA
Nov. 14
Fantasia's post-Idol career has been erratic, to say the least: Her R&B-infused debut, Free Yourself, was well received, while her Lifetime biopic provided, at best, employment for Kadeem Hardison. Now she's going more mainstream with a peppier disc. ''The [singles] are lighter and the subject matter accessible to a pop audience,'' says J Records' Jackson. Based on what we've heard of the joyous new CD, Fantasia has the best chance of leading the pack. ''I want to bring it back to that Tina Turner, Aretha Franklin thing. Give good music and have a good time,'' says Fantasia. Sounds promising, but please, no more Lifetime flicks.