ESSENCE Festival headliner Beyoncé always knows how to get the crowd going, whether she’s belting out a high-energy song such as “Crazy in Love” or showing off her vocal skills with a tune like “Halo.”
Andrew Goetz
02
Maxwell
From “Fortunate” to “Pretty Wings,” Maxwell never fails to keep us interested in his music and we’re sure that will be the case in July.
Andrew Goetz
03
Janelle Monáe
Janelle Monáe, the May cover star of ESSENCE magazine and ESSENCE Festival performer, puts on an amazing live show you won’t want to miss.
Kevin Mazur
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Charlie Wilson
Uncle Charlie knows how to put on a good show. After a soulful 2012 Festival performance, he’s returning to wow the crowd again.
Gus Bennett
05
Keyshia Cole
Multiplatinum singer/songwriter Keyshia Cole rocked the main stage at last year’s ESSENCE Festival, and she’ll be doing it once again in July.
Gus Bennett
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Trey Songz
How could R&B singer Trey Songz possibly top last year’s performance? You’ll have to wait and see.
Makeda Peterson
07
Jill Scott
Very few artists have the ability to sing with honest emotion like Jill Scott can. The Grammy Award-winning artist is blessing the ESSENCE Festival with her talent once more and she’s inviting you along for the ride.
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Tyrese & Tank
Tyrese and Tank were a favorite of ladies who took part in the fun at last year’s event. This year, they’re coming back as a supergroup—TGT—which includes R&B crooner Ginuwine. Ladies, get ready!
Gus Bennett
09
Faith Evans
With more than a decade in the music business, Faith Evans will surely have R&B lovers in awe of her impressive vocals.
Makeda Peterson
10
LL Cool J
The influence LL Cool J has on the world of hip-hop is undeniable. ESSENCE Festival goers will be rocking with him once more when he performs old hits as well as songs from his latest album, Authentic.
Imeh Akpanudosen/Getty Images
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Rachelle Ferrell
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Solange
If you loved “I Decided” and “Losing You,” you definitely don’t want to miss Solange’s performance. She embodies creativity at its best.
Lloyd Bishop/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images
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Kim Burrell
There couldn’t be an Empowerment Experience component at the Festival without some of the biggest names in gospel, including Kim Burrell. Kim is part of the Get Lifted All Star Gospel Tribute including the 2013 honorees Donnie McClurkin and Tramaine Hawkins.
Gus Bennett
14
Yolanda Adams
Yolanda Adams is a prime example of how much gospel has evolved. The Houston, Texas native has touched many hearts with her music and she’ll touch many more at this year’s event.
Ingrid Jones
15
Mint Condition
One of the greatest R&B bands of our time, Mint Condition is credited for hits like “Pretty Brown Eyes” and “What Kind of Man Would I Be.” Once again, the group will bring their great singing to the stage.