2016 Essence Festival Lineup

With just four months out from this year’s ESSENCE Festival, the brains behind the annual event held in New Orleans has given us a first look at the 2016 lineup.

“The ESSENCE Festival is back in New Orleans with an extraordinary roster of the biggest names and best performers in entertainment—from global music icons to the industry’s rising stars,” said ESSENCE President Michelle Ebanks. “We are welcoming Mariah Carey, Kendrick Lamar and Maxwell to headline the Superdome main stage. In addition, we will be embracing newcomers like Leon Bridges, Jeremih, Lion Babe, Dej Loaf and The Internet, as well as fan favorite Charlie Wilson for the ultimate cultural experience in New Orleans this July 4th weekend.”

Featuring more than 30 of today’s hottest hip-hop and R&B stars, the highly anticipated festival is a must-see event. This year’s lineup is a mix of old and new including headliner Kendrick Lamar to Mariah Carey, Maxwell and Lion Babe. Other acts include Ciara, Leon Bridges, Jeremih and Charlie Wilson. For a full list of performers confirmed to perform across five stages over the four-night event, keep scrolling below.

Dej Loaf and The Internet
Babyface
Estelle
Lalah Hathaway
MC Lyte
Doug E. Fresh
Daley
Tink
New Edition
Tyrese
Robert Glasper Experience
Kelly Price
BJ The Chicago Kid
Digable Planets
Jidenna
Faith Evans
Judith Hill
V. Bozeman.
Lady Leshur

New Orleans-based performers include:

Cyril Neville
New Breed Brass Band
Preservation Hall Jazz Band.