Aretha Franklin tops the list of performers slated for the 2012 Essence Fest in the Superdome. The roster also includes perennial Essence favorites Mary J. Blige and Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Stephanie Mills, Keyshia Cole and New Orleans-born Ledisi. The 18th annual Essence Music Festival is July 6-8.
Ms. Franklin has endured a rough couple of years, with mysterious health issues and missed gigs. She canceled scheduled appearances at both the 2009 and 2010 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festivals.
Essence has had better luck with her: She performed as scheduled at Essence in 1995 and 2005. Essence plans to honor Franklin with its “Power Award” during her show this year.
Other acts on the bill include SWV, Dru Hill, Raheem DeVaughn, Estelle, Goapele, Vivian Green, Kindred the Family Soul, Luke James, Eric Roberson, the Stylistics, Bridget Kelly and such local acts as Big Sam’s Funky Nation, the Original Pinettes Brass Band, the Stooges Brass Band and saxophonist Khris Royal & Dark Matter.
The free, daytime empowerment seminars at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center will feature Steve Harvey, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rep. Maxine Waters, Dr. Steve Perry and a gospel tribute to Fred Hammond and Mary Mary.
Tickets for Essence are on sale now through Ticketmaster.
Posted By: Siebra Muhammad
Wednesday, January 11th 2012 at 2:17PM
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