William Clark Sr.
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July 1, 2010Earth, Wind & Fire, Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Mary J. Blige, Irma Thomas, Alicia Keys and LL Cool J are just a small sampling of the incredible performers who will grace the stage at this year’s Essence Music Festival.
Held at the New Orleans’ Superdome, the musical extravaganza will take place on Friday, July 2, through Sunday, July 4.
The festival began in 1995 as a one-time event to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Essence magazine. Last year, a record-breaking 428,000 attendees celebrated the 15th anniversary of the function. According = to the Festival’s website, it is the nation’s largest annual gathering of African-American music and culture.
Some local performers, such as the Rebirth Brass Band and Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers, will also play at the popular event.
In addition to the musical acts, empowerment seminars, hosted by Bishop T.D. Jakes, Jada Pinkett Smith, Bill Cosby, Reverend Al Sharpton and Steve Harvey, to name a few, are scheduled for the weekend. They will take place at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.
The Marketplace, also found in the Convention Center, is the perfect spot to enjoy some local cuisine, African-American arts and crafts, a book fair with author signings and much more.
The price range for tickets varies immensely (approx. $60 to $1000). Visit www.essencemusicfestival.com for more details.
