One thing is guaranteed when it comes to the ESSENCE Festival: the stars always come out in full force. Enjoy some of our favorite celeb photos from past Festivals.
No one was going to get in the way of Jill Scott’s performance at the 2010 ESSENCE Festival. She’ll return to the Festival on Friday, July 5, to wow the crowd yet again.
Jennifer Cooper
02
Keyshia Cole
R&B singer Keyshia Cole never fails to put on a show. She did just that during last year’s ESSENCE Festival and will do so again on Saturday, July 6.
Michael Rowe
03
Luke James
Luke James fans who didn’t get enough last year will have the chance to see the singer perform in the ESSENCE Festival superlounge on Sunday, July 7.
Michael Rowe
04
Janet Jackson
If you’ve ever seen Janet Jackson perform, you know what you’re in for. Her electrifying dance moves, unique voice and undeniable sex appeal keep us all wanting more.
Jennifer Cooper
05
Iyanla Vanzant
Motivational speaker Iyanla Vanzant looks absolutely radiant. Look out for her at this year’s ESSENCE Festival, where she’ll discuss achieving happiness in your life.
Michael Rowe
06
Aretha Franklin
The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, takes the ESSENCE Festival stage, inspiring all in attendance.
Michael Rowe
07
Victoria Rowell
Victoria Rowell will return to the ESSENCE Festival in July to share what it takes to be sexy at any age.
Jennifer Cooper
08
D’Angelo
After being on a hiatus, R&B singer D’Angelo won over the 2012 ESSENCE Festival crowd.
Michael Rowe
09
Mary J. Blige
Mary J. Blige brought down the house at the 2011 ESSENCE Festival and fans couldn’t help but sing along to many of her hits.
Lenyon Whitaker
10
Cynthia Bailey
Cynthia Bailey of “The Real Housewives of Atlanta” proves that her modeling skills are still on point.
Michael Rowe
11
Shaunie O’Neal
Shaunie O’Neal of “Basketball Wives” looks fierce as she mixes and mingles at the ESSENCE Festival.
Michael Rowe
12
Charlie Wilson
Uncle Charlie gives his all with every performance. Get ready for him to rock the ESSENCE Festival mainstage on Saturday, July 6.
Michael Rowe
13
Keri Hilson
Our favorite R&B singer from Georgia takes in the love from her fans during her ESSENCE Festival show.
Jennifer Cooper
14
Tank
To the delight of ladies everywhere, Tank will return to the ESSENCE Festival in July. This time, he’ll perform as part of TGT, his new group with Tyrese and Ginuwine.
Michael Rowe
15
Denise Vasi
Actress Denise Vasi spoke candidly about love and relationships during the 2012 ESSENCE Festival Empowerment Experience.
Michael Rowe
16
Jada Pinkett Smith
Actress Jada Pinkett Smith is all smiles during the 2010 ESSENCE Festival.
Jennifer Cooper
17
Usher
If you’re going to experience an Usher show, you’ll need tons of energy. During the 2011 ESSENCE Festival, the R&B star had everyone on their feet.
Lenyon Whitaker
18
June Ambrose
Fashion stylist to the stars, June Ambrose, looks gorgeous in her floral number.
Michael Rowe
19
Goapele
R&B singer/songwriter Goapele stuns in an animal print dress.
Michael Rowe
20
Michael Ealy
Actor Michael Ealy looks calm, cool and collected, as he poses for the camera.
Jennifer Cooper
21
Roland Martin
ESSENCE Festival alum Roland Martin will return to the event this year to share his views on protecting children from gun violence.
Michael Rowe
22
Kirk Franklin
Gospel artist Kirk Franklin takes a moment for prayer during his Festival show.
Michael Rowe
23
The Pointer Sisters
The Pointer Sisters gave fans a taste of their greatest hits during the 2012 ESSENCE Festival.
Michael Rowe
24
Jennifer Hudson
2011 ESSENCE Festival concert attendees were in for a treat when Jennifer Hudson hit the stage. The Grammy- and Oscar-winning star never fails to deliver a powerful show.