Essence Music Festival celebrates more than music

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It’s the end of another Essence Music Festival weekend, sixteen to be exact. What a weekend.

After a ride on the streetcar I ran into Malik Yoba and the Crews family.

Then it was off to the Superdome where I kicked it backstage with Raphael Saadiq and Niecy Nash. But the night’s highlight was headliner Janet Jackson.

On Saturday, I enjoyed the Essence Experience at the convention center and some perks.

I found out how beautiful my black was with a free facial. Partied with Chilli, got cooking tips from B. Smith and parenting advice from Jada Pinkett-Smith. Smith is also this month’s Essence cover girl as the magazine celebrates 40 years.

Doug E. Fresh also attracted a crowd at the Coca-Cola Booth

I ended the night with LL Cool J “Rockin the Bells” and Alicia Keys tickling the ivory.

On Sunday, I got a little church. I went to a gospel show that featured artists Kirk Franklin and Shirley Caesar.

The high energy from concertgoers carried over at the final performances of Jill Scott, Mary J. Blige and Earth, Wind and Fire.