Essence Music Festival 2012 Updates
01:01 PM Thursday 5/3/12
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Essence Music Festival revealed some big news today. In addition to booking D’Angelo’s first U.S. performance in a decade, the initial 2012 daily schedule has been announced.
The 18th annual event is set for July 6-8 at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The festival got its start in 1995 as a 25th anniversary celebration of Essence magazine.
Essence Music Festival, Louisiana Superdome, New Orleans, La.
July 3, 2011
(Jason Moore)
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Trey Songz was also added to the lineup today. He and D’Angelo take the stage Friday, July 6, along with Charlie Wilson, Keyshia Cole, The Pointer Sisters, Marsha Ambrosius, Q. Parker & Super Jay, Khris Royal, Kindred The Family Soul, Vivian Green, Stephanie Mills, Gary Clark Jr. Rebirth Brass Band, SWV and Goapele.
Mary J. Blige headlines July 7. She shares Saturday’s schedule with Kevin Hart, Ledisi, Tank, Eric Roberson, Teedra Moses, The Stylistics, Robert Glasper, Dru Hill, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, Stephanie Mills and Big Sam’s Funky Nation.
Fox Theatre, Atlanta, Ga.
March 5, 2012
(Rick Diamond / Getty Images for The Fox Theatre)
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Aretha Franklin closes out the festival Sunday, July 8. Fans will also hear from Mary Mary, Carl Thomas, Fantasia, Kirk Franklin, Melanie Fiona, Alex Boydy, Eve, The Stooges Brass Band, Estelle, Luke James, Raheem DeVaughn and Bridget Kelly.
More acts will be added to the lineup soon.
The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center hosts the free Essence Empowerment Experience, featuring seminars from leaders and celebrities, as well as a worship session led by gospel performers. This year’s speakers lineup includes actor/comedian/author Steve Harvey, Reverand Al Sharpton, Democratic U.S. Rep. Maxine Waters of California and author Steve Perry.
Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, Pa.
July 4, 2011
(AP Photo)
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Single-day tickets went on sale today, priced between $50 for the terrace level and $300 for the gold circle floor. Weekend ticket packages start at $114. VIP travel packages are also available. The quoted prices do not include additional taxes and fees.
For more information visit Essence.com.
--Sarah Marie Pittman