The Essence Music Festival has announced its 2012 lineup, with headliners that include Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, Fantasia, Stephanie Mills, Charlie Wilson, Keyshia Cole, Ledisi, and SWV.
A young Aretha Franklin
Local artists performing include Big Sam’s Funky Nation, Pinettes Brass Band, Stooges Brass Band, Khris Royal & Dark Matter, and Luke James.
With the Fourth of July falling on a Wednesday this year, Essence Fest will take place the following weekend, Friday, July 6 through Sunday, July 8. Weekend ticket packages are on sale, ranging from $120 for terrace seating to $750 for Gold Circle floor seats, with single-day tickets to go on sale at a later date.
The full lineup so far includes:
Aretha Franklin
Mary J. Blige
Fantasia
Stephanie Mills
Charlie Wilson
Keyshia Cole
Ledisi
SWV
Dru Hill
Raheem DeVaughn
Estelle
Goapele
Vivian Green
Kindred the Family Soul
Luke James
Eric Roberson
The Stylistics
Big Sam’s Funky Nation
Bridget Kelly
The Original Pinettes Brass Band
The Stooges Brass Band
Khris Royal & Dark Matter.
Each year, one of Essence’s popular non-music offerings is its Empowerment Experience, discussions and seminars with motivational speakers that are free and open to the public. This year’s Empowerment Experience lineup so far includes Steve Harvey, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rep. Maxine Waters, Dr. Steve Perry, and an all-star gospel tribute to Fred Hammond and Mary Mary.
