Whether you’re heading to the Superdome or not, enjoy the biggest jams of the 2009 ESSENCE Music Festival right now. Headliner Beyoncé gets things started with her latest ode to independent women.
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02
‘Miss Independent’ by Ne-Yo
We got our own and are glad gentlemen like Ne-Yo appreciate it.
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03
‘Pretty Wings’ by Maxwell
He’s back and better than ever! Only Maxwell can make breaking up sound so heartfelt on this track.
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Jennifer Cooper
04
‘Sweet Love’ by Anita Baker
Anita Baker’s voice can make any day a good one, and this hit song is no different.
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05
‘Whatta Man’ by Salt-N-Pepa
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06
‘Green Light’ by John Legend
Legend definitely stepped from behind the piano on this club banger, and switched things up with much swag.
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Jennifer Cooper
07
‘Hold On’ by En Vogue
It’s tough to choose a favorite En Vogue track, but this ballad definitely is in the running. We held on to our love for the group and now they’re back with all four original members.
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08
‘Need U Bad’ by Jazmine Sullivan
Powerhouse vocals over a calypso beat get feet tapping and hips swaying every time Sullivan’s debut song comes on.
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09
‘Lost Without U’ by Robin Thicke
Thicke solidified his spot in R&B with this smooth ballad. The video starring his wife Paula Patton was an added bonus.
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10
‘In The Morning’ by Ledisi
Songbird Ledisi dazzles us with this honest and sultry song of hoping your latest love affair lasts.
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11
‘Addiction’ by Ryan Leslie
We love a man who’s honest about his feelings, which is probably why this R&B newcomer is a crowd favorite.
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12
‘I’m Cheatin’ ‘ by Dwele
Dwele makes the ladies smile with this clever ode to his girl’s two sides: lady in the streets and freak in the sheets.
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13
‘Love That Girl’ by Raphael Saadiq
Old school became new again with Saadiq’s classic ballad.
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14
‘Turning Me On’ by Keri Hilson
Looking for a sexy song to blast while riding around this weekend? Miss Keri Baby delivers on this sultry jam, and fellas should take note.
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15
‘Let Go’ by Lalah Hathaway
Ms. Hathaway definitely inherited the soul-stirring sound and stage presence of her father Donny.
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16
‘Stand’ by Donnie McClurkin
Thanks, Donnie, for the perfect remedy to a rough day, with this gospel classic.
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17
‘T.O.N.Y.’ by Solange
Behind the clever title, this catchy cut looks at the consequences of a one-night stand.
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18
‘Lovers Lane’ by Teena Marie
Our favorite blue-eyed R&B songstress is back with her signature sound. Yes, she’s still got it.
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19
‘Diva’ by Beyoncé
Beyoncé’s alter ego Sasha Fierce asserts her reign on this bossy track.
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20
‘Before I Let Go’ by Maze featuring Frankie Beverly
This electric slide anthem closes out the ESSENCE Music Festival every year. Join in wherever you are in the country and relive great summer memories.
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Have a favorite? Share your favorite Fourth of July weekend songs below