It’s that time of year again! The Essence Music Festival 2013 takeover is upon us. Essence Fest–will be held July 4-July 7, 2013 in New Orleans! Artist such as Maxwell, New Edition, Mali Music, Leela James, Bilal, Les Nubians, Solange–just to name a few–will be performing. The Mrs. Carter Tour will also make a stop on Sunday night *insert scream here*! I was also excited to find out that Black Girls Run will be there. Via Facebook: “They will be hosting the Coca-Cola Walk/Run–It’s time to MOVE, GROOVE, and ENJOY this exciting weekend, and to keep you healthy, active, and fit over the weekend Black Girls RUN! will be leading an 8:30a 3k run/walk.” Find out more here. This is my 2nd year attending Essence Fest. Last year we had an absolute blast, so I knew I couldn’t wait to do it again. There will be so many great artists performing, speakers, parties, shows, and events! And can’t forget that delicious, Nawlins cuisine! The foodie in me couldn’t resist. I know we will all have a blast!
This will be my first time seeing Beyoncé live in concert! I absolutely CANNOT WAIT!!!!!! I really want to check out Solange in the Super Lounge too!
Here are some pics from the Essence Music Festival 2012!
African Pride gave out fun Swag Bag goodies! My line-sister and I got away from the EMF festivities and took a stroll down Bourbon Street.
There was so much to do as soon as we arrived at the convention center. This is the first time I’d ever heard of DJ Traci Steele (who appears on Love & Hip Hop Atlanta). She is dope! The cast of L.A. Hair was there discussing everything from hair to the reality show. Yo Yo was in full effect, taking me all the way back–telling my age! Tank even did his thing for the ladies. They also had a block party where MC Lyte DJ’d/performed.
My HB and I at the Superdome ready for the concert!!! We had a LONG day, but when the concert started…it was on!
We attended the Saturday Show where Mary J. Blige was the headliner! Talk about AMAZING! Mary kept singing Hit after Hit after Hit! Just when I thought she was done, she pulled out another one. Oh and when she performed “Share My World”–I was swaying from side to side. And LEDISI! *faints* OMG! She could have headlined ALL by herself! She alone would have been worth it. Did I mention that she has the most incredible stage presence I’ve ever seen? And them legs of hers make you want to hit the gym hard! Kevin Hart (not pictured) was HILARIOUS too!
Empowerment Sunday was awesome! My line-sister and I caught back up at Empowerment. They gave a tribute to Mary Mary and Fred Hammond. Israel Houghton, one of my favorite gospel/Christian artists, performed one of the tributes to Fred Hammond. Kim Burrell had everybody about to shout and run through the auditorium. Her voice! *speechless* There were also panel discussions with the men of Single Ladies, speakers, and other events going on.
I’m looking forward to an awesome time this year!
Have you ever attended the Essence Music Festival? What are your favorite moments, activities, places, restaurants, etc?
You guys have a blast for me! And be safe :-)
Thank you honayyy! One of these years we’re gonna get everybody there, including the boys! :-)
Sadly, I’ve never been. *sad face* I won’t leave this life without doing so. I will eventually.
Good friend of mine who lives in MD was telling me about a music festival she is traveling to in PA today. It’s free! The Roots, Jill Scott, John Mayer, and some other musicians are going to be there. I bet that’s going to be a blast too.
Have fun! I know you will.
Yes, you must!!! Last year was our first year going. There is SO MUCH to do! You’ll find “some” ppl saying…”I went to Essence Festival”– but they never once went to a concert, any EMF events, etc. I’m like No Boo, you went to New Orleans to kick it on Bourbon St., French Quarter… I mean how can you NOT go for the Essence experience? There is so much to do! The convention center alone is worth traveling for. So many speakers, performances, swag bag stuff, block parties…did I mention it’s ALL FREE?! Yes, the concerts you pay for, but it’s so worth going to at least one! When you do get a chance to go, you’ll love it! I hope to make this a family event over the years.
Your friend’s event lineup sounds super awesome! I’m a big fan of music festivals. I hope our city can get back to the place where we have them more often. With the growth of the new entertainment district, I see a bright future for that. And thank you…I look forward to a great time! :-)