Label Says Fantasia Is Honoring Commitments On Releasing New Album

What a whirlwind couple of weeks for American Idol alum Fantasia: Named in a “homewrecker”
divorce case that included a sex-tape allegation, hospitalized for an attempted overdose, and being the center of attention from all major media outlets. Now critics are blaming the “Bittersweet” singer for milking all this for publicity after Fantasia continued plans to honor her previously scheduled promotional tour in support of her third album, "Back to Me" (J Records, August 24).

"People think we beefed up all these TV commitments," says Carolyn Williams, senior vice president of marketing for RCA Music Group, referring to Fantasia’s appearances on "Good Morning America" (August 24) and "Lopez Tonight" (August 25), plus upcoming guest stints on "106 & Park" (September 8), "Live! With Regis and Kelly" (September 9) and "The Wendy Williams Show" (September 10).

"These were already on the calendar," Williams says. "There was talk of moving the album release date back, but this was Fantasia's decision. She wanted to move forward, and we support her."

Fantasia - who will also appear at radio personality Steve Harvey's Hoodie Awards in Las Vegas (August 28) and fellow syndicated personality Tom Joyner's Family Reunion (September 4) -- will hit the promo circuit armed with a third chart-topping single. Responding to questions about the album, Fantasia tells Billboard "Back to Me" has "allowed her to give back exactly what and who everyone fell in love with" during her "Idol" run. "It's just me getting 'back to me' by singing songs that are age-appropriate yet showing growth," the singer added. Fantasia’s "Bittersweet" jumped from No. 4 to No. 1 on Billboard's Adult R&B list, joining previous chart-toppers "Free Yourself" and "Truth Is." Fantasia’s “Back to Me” in stores August 24th. Side Note: Milk the hell out of this publicity Fantasia. If we can report your personal life then you have the right to use it for your benefit.