Jennifer Hudson, the Grammy award-winning superstar, is scheduled to appear at the Essence Musical Festival for the first time along with Chaka Khan, the R&B/Funk icon, in addition to a New Edition reunion special performance at the festivities this year.

Michelle Ebanks, Essence Communications President said, Essence Music Festival will be bringing the best entertainers in the world together, representing all R&B genres, from the iconic Chaka Kan to the inimitable Jennifer Hudson.

The annual festival will run July 1-3 in New Orleans. Other performers include Brian Courtney Wilson, Trin-i-tee 5:7, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Eric Benet, Mavis Staples, Marsha Ambrosius, Doug E. Fresh, Naughty By Nature and Kem Miguel.

Ebanks said, over the fourth of July weekend we will celebrate R&B’s roots. The Essence Music Festival, from the main stage powerhouse performance to the Superlounges’ intimate jam sessions, will offer neo-soul, classics, funk and blues for our audience so that they connect with their joy and renew their spirits.

This is the 17th year for the festival. For music lovers it has become the premiere destination and it is anticipated that this year’s event will be one its biggest festivals. With their previously announced performers including Macy Gray, George Clinton, Fantasia, Boyz II Men, Charlie Wilson, Jill Scott, Trey Songz, Mary J. Blige and Kayne West along with the recently announced edition, this landmark festival has certainly earned their reputation for being R&B’s most sought after festival.

The Big Easy is the only place to be over the fourth of July weekend thanks to Essence Music Festival.

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