Essence Magazine

At a star-studded Black Excellence Brunch, Marsha Ambrosius turns Patti LaBelle’s R&B classic into a tear-jerking Essence Fest moment you need to see.

From Superdome nights to Convention Center days, see how Mario, Destin Conrad and Coi Leray add new energy to Essence Fest’s evolving lineup.

Missy Elliott leads a family-approved celebration of Aaliyah’s legacy during Essence Fest’s emotional 2026 closing night in New Orleans.

As Essence Fest’s new chief curator, Teyana Taylor reveals how she’ll restore the festival’s roots while leveling up the entire New Orleans experience.

The multi-hyphenate will help shape the festival’s creative direction as organizers roll out the 2026 lineup in New Orleans.

Coco Jones explains how Ciara has offered advice and support as she balances a growing music career and life in the spotlight.

Kehlani’s breakthrough, Brandy and Monica’s reunion, plus Patti LaBelle and Cardi B: how EssenceFest 2026 is betting big on women-led R&B.

As Essence Fest eyes new state funding, unpaid convention and vendor costs raise questions about transparency, priorities, and its future in New Orleans.

The entire show was late. It wasn't her fault.

Banks says that "so many things" would've been changed on the former reality show.

The actress clarified that she's on good terms with her sister despite not being as "accessible" to each other now.

The tennis icon was romantically linked to Drizzy in 2015.

The 30th Essence Festival of Culture got off to a rocky start, with Busta Rhymes blasting the New Orleans crowd for being disengaged.

The 'Cowboy Carter' artist revealed how much her hair has grown since her big chop in 2013.

In a chat with 'Essence,' Usher gave a confession about the TLC member being his celebrity crush as a child.

The singer gave a rare interview to Essence about her upcoming haircare line and her controversial decision to chop off her signature locs.

The NOLA rap star felt he should have been included in the lineup with all he’s contributed to hip-hop. Of note, the festival is being held in New Orleans.

The celebrity couple welcomed their second child together in September 2021. Cardi and Offset have kept their newborn out of the public eye... until this week.