Mary J. Blige, Kanye West, Jill Scott, and Trey Songz are the initial artists announced for this year's Essence Music Festival. The 20111 Essence Music Festival will take place this July 1, 2 and 3 in New Orleans, La.
These artists are a part of a group of established and emerging artists who continue to honor "The Roots of R&B" including Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Boyz II Men, Stephanie Mills, George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Macy Gray, Dwele, Alexander O'Neal & Cherrelle, Mint Condition, Kelly Price, M.C. Lyte and New Orleans talent including Irma Thomas, Kourtney Heart, Rebirth Brass Band, Charmaine Neville Band, and TBC Brass Band.
"Essence is proud to present our most beloved and rising talent across all R&B categories for our first announcement. We listen to our audience and the performers in our first roll-out are the musicians they want to see under one roof over the Fourth of July weekend," said Michelle Ebanks, President, Essence Communications Inc.
"Our mission this year was to celebrate community through the prism of the art form that continues to tell our reader's stories: R&B. From the Main Stage to the Super Lounge, we've assembled an unforgettable roster of talent who provide a snapshot of this music's ability to connect with audiences unlike few genres. Stay tuned. We have additional names to come. This is going to be an Essence Music Festival that attendees will talk about for a long time!"