ESSENCE Fest Lineup Announced

You know season is upon us when another day brings another festival announcement — this time around, it’s the lineup for the 2013 ESSENCE Festival, slated for July 4-7 in New Orleans.

More than 30 performers will span 8 live music and cultural stages at the Superdome each night, following motivational daytime programming at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

Neo soul diva Jill Scott is among the headliners set to perform at the 2013 ESSENCE Fest July 4-7 in New Orleans.

Headliners will include Mainstage talent Jill Scott, Maxwell, New Edition, Charlie Wilson, Keyshia Cole, LL Cool J and Brandy, in addition to Superlounge stage acts Bridget Kelly, Big Daddy Kane, Blackstreet, Jody Watley, Leela James, Les Nubians, Anthony David, Mint Condition, Kourtney Heart, F. Stokes, Mia Borders and others still TBA.

Event organizers are billing the event — now in its 19th year — as a “newly re-branded” affair that will expand cultural and community programming and bring the venerable publication’s “page to the stage,” highlighting health, careers, education, civil rights, relationships, style, beauty and more.

In addition to the musical acts slated to perform, more than 50 speakers will appear at the four-day fest’s Daytime Empowerment Experience, among them the Rev. Al Sharpton, Rep. John Lewis and Dr. Steve Perry.

An all-star gospel tribute to “musical powerhouses” is also in the works with Pastor Donnie McClurkin and Tramaine Hawkins.

The new 2013 ESSENCE Festival cultural and community programs include:

  • A Family Reunion Day including free family activities, prizes, music and barbecue eats to mark the holiday weekend.
  • A Career Zone to learn about employment opportunities and career advancement with companies throughout the country.
  • A Healthy Living Zone with discussions, activities and expert advice to renew mind, body and spirit.

More acts and speakers will be announced soon, and tickets (including VIP packages) are already available for purchase.