(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jennifer Hudson cherishes the memory of her late mother and brother and can hear the latter telling her to knock it off.

The 29-year-old American songstress experienced tragedy in October 2008 when her mother Darnell Donerson, and brother, Jason Hudson, were found dead inside the Chicago home they shared with Julia Hudson, Jennifers sister. Julias seven-year-old son, Julian King, was also found dead three days later in the back of Jasons SUV. The three victims had all suffered multiple gunshot wounds, with William Balfour, Julias estranged husband later being arrested and charged for the crime.

Jennifer has spoken out about her coping mechanism, explaining she manages to deal with the loss by keeping her familys memory close to her heart. The singer feels that her brother and mom are with her at all times, offering advice and telling her to be strong.

I keep holding on to things that they taught us, she told talks show host Oprah Winfrey in an intimate interview yesterday.

My mother and even my brother I can hear him saying to me, Just knock it off.

Despite the trauma, Jennifers career has continued to blossom, and in August 2009 the songstress and fianc David Otunga welcomed a son together, David Daniel Otunga Jr. Jennifer cites motherhood as a major factor in helping her cope with her family tragedy, as well as religion.

Its a very emotional subject, she said. [I got through it because] of my family, my baby and God.

Jennifer has also been talking to E! Online about her future career plans. The multi-talented singer would love to follow in the footsteps of stars such as Gwyneth Paltrow by appearing in an episode of hit US musical comedy Glee, laughing that she wouldnt mind playing the substitute music teacher.

"That would be so cool," Jennifer beamed. "It's such an amazing show, so hopefully." (C) Cover Media