Essence Fest 2022 Three Day Weekend Recap
WBLS Staff
07/06/2022 12:00 AM EDT
This past weekend Essence Fest in New Orleans was the place to be! The larger-than-life three-day event came back in person for the first time since the pandemic. During the day, Essence Fest was held at the convention center where people from all over gathered to support black-owned businesses, listen to panels, and have a good time. For the three nights, event goers attended the concerts at the Caesars Superdome. Those who were in attendance, saw performances from Kes The Band, Machel Montano, Nicki Minaj, Chloe and Halle, Dj D-Nice and Friends, Stephanie Mills, New Edition, Patti LaBelle, Janet Jackson, and there were even a few surprises. Many of your favorite celebrities such as Ne-Yo, Sevyn Streeter, Rotimi, Carl Thomas, and more, we're also there to show love for what was dubbed “the family reunion of the year!” We were able to catch up with a few of them to speak with them about the importance of Essence Fest being in person for the first time since the pandemic. “This is my fifth Essence Fest, being here is like being home. I know what to expect, I know the vibe, great energy, and Black excellence. It gets better and better every year,” singer and actor Rotimi said. Singer Sevyn Streeter said that being at Essence Fest reminded her of being at a family reunion and seeing relatives that she hasn’t seen in a really long time. “I feel like I’m back at the barbeque with my cousins. It's just full of Black excellence and Black energy.” She continued, “I love seeing the Black vendors, the Black-owned businesses, and I came to support it feels great.” She also revealed that she has new music coming out very soon and that there may be some potential collaborations with Chris Brown. “All the songs that [Chris] and I have done together, it should be an album already, but for now, I’m just excited. I have a new record coming out this month called “Work.” It brings the energy, it’s up tempo and fun. I just want to dance and be outside with my girlfriends and have a good time. This is what that song feels like.” Essence Fest 2022 was definitely filled with Black excellence and we were honored to be in attendance, we can’t wait for next year.
