The Essence Music Festival is held every 4th of July weekend in New Orleans, LA. This year's headliner was Beyonce. She was in great company with, my all time favorite, Jill Scott, my favorite new artist, Alice Smith, New Edition, Maxwell, Charlie Wilson, Faith Evans, Trey Songz, TGT, Janelle Monae and the list goes on and on. Because there were so many performers there was no way for me to see them all. But the ones I did see we're AMAZING!!!
In the Super Lounge, I got to listen to an up and coming artist, Bridget Kelly. Never heard of her before but I was impressed. She was flawless in her appearance as well as musically! She gained a new fan! Immediately, after her, the one and only Faith Evans hit the stage! She looked stunning. Now I must admit, I was nervous to hear Faith. I've always loved her but didn't know how she would sound live. Well, let me tell you she shut me down! That woman can sing. An added bonus was when she brought THE Kelly Price out on stage! That is a whole 'nother post in itself! She has a voice like none other!
Can we just talk about Uncle Charlie for a minute?! Charlie Wilson is a 60 year old R&B icon! He tore up the stage like he was in his 20's. He did about 5 outfit changes...and of course they all sparkled, lit up or did something else extravagant. His dancers didn't miss a beat either. The band was simply incredible! But what else do we expect from Uncle Charlie?!
Jill Scott!!! Enough said right?! Anybody who knows me knows that Jill is my twin in my head! Lol! Her soulful, sultry sound does something to me every time. She sang all of her classic numbers and when I say sang I mean saaaannnnggg!!! Not only did she scat, hum and groan but she did it effortlessly! The woman is talented! Don't know about her, you better ask somebody!
The convention center had different speakers and panels. There were plenty of free giveaways. There were seminars such as, Jobs in America, How to be Happy with Iyanla Vanzant and so many more. I also got to see Steve Harvey in action while he hosted the Steve Harvey Morning Show and Family Feud. In the convention center there were also vendors selling art, clothing and jewelry. They also had vendors selling some of Nawlins best foods.
Speaking of food, I had gumbo, crawfish, jambalaya, shrimp and grits and much more ( Yea I know! I'm hitting the gym)! You mad?! Lol! It was all delish! I went to Dooky Chase's, one of the oldest soul food restaurants in the Big Easy! Also went to Poppy's Time Out! on the River Walk at least 3 times! They had a drink called voodoo...well, you know the rest! Hypnotized! I ate at Mother's, the Trolley Stop and a great deal of other scrumptious places.
To sum it up, if you love music, food and entertainment, Essence is where you want to be! My friends told me it was something I needed to experience and now I am telling you the same thing! It's a must!
Group Shot of the Lovely Ladies
