The 2013 ESSENCE Music Festival returns to New Orleans July 4-7.

See Raheem DeVaughn's performance from the 2012 ESSENCE Music Festival Ford Super Lounge.

See SWV's performance from the 2012 ESSENCE Music Festival Ford Super Lounge.

A roundup of the ESSENCE Music Festival 2012 sponsors. 

This year's festival featured performances from Mary J. Blige, Aretha Franklin and more.

Our top makeup moments from EMF weekend.

The stars came out to shine this weekend for the ESSENCE Music Fest. Check out who was at the party.

Your all-access pass to the hottest ESSENCE Music Fest performances this holiday weekend.

Aretha Franklin promises to perform all of her hits.

Watch as Trey Songz, Michael Ealy, SWV and more wish Hart a happy birthday.