Essence Fest 2025
And just like that, the Essence Festival of Culture 2025 has come to a close. This year's celebration brought a bit of fresh energy sprinkled with many familiar faces. While daytime vendors and nighttime crowds seemed to be lower than previous years, the show went on and there were still many amazing moments, especially during the nighttime performances at the Caesars Superdome.
With a renewed focus on legacy, innovation, and unapologetic Black joy, Essence 2025 delivered headline-making surprises, farewells, and culture-shifting conversations. If you weren't there to witness it firsthand, here's a look at the standout moments that defined this year's festival.
DAY 1
A Low Crowd For Lauryn
If you heard that Lauryn Hill didn't hit the Superdome stage until after 2:30 a.m., then you heard right. But this time, it wasn't her fault. The entire Friday evening ran far behind schedule. From the Superdome doors not opening until after the 6 p.m. scheduled time to a delayed soundcheck, the night was pushed back so much that crowds began to thin simply because people were worn out.
But the show must go on, and Ms. Lauryn Hill still graced the Superdome stage with a dynamic set. Sadly, only a small audience remained to witness it. Despite the light crowd, she passionately delivered classics including "Ex-Factor," "Killing Me Softly," and "Fu-Gee-La," joined by her sons for a special moment.
Babyface Shares A Music Catalogue Like None Other
If you've heard any R&B hit from the '90s, there's a good chance Babyface wrote it. From the early '80s to today, the legendary songwriter and singer has been crafting timeless music. Fortunately for us, he shared many of those gems on stage at this year's Essence Festival of Culture.
Admittedly tired from delays, Babyface transformed a late-night slot into an unforgettable showcase of his enduring talent. Taking the Superdome stage around midnight, he powered through fatigue with grace, leading the crowd on a journey through his iconic catalog. From his own classics such as "Whip Appeal" and "Every Time I Close My Eyes" to hits he penned for stars including Toni Braxton and Boyz II Men, Babyface reminded everyone why he remains one of R&B's most influential figures.
Maxwell Brings Energy
Yes, we were all tired and the night had been long, but like a shot of Red Bull, Maxwell brought a burst of energy when he hit the stage around 1 a.m. The crowd quickly forgot the late hour once they heard his smooth, soulful, and, at times, high-energy sound. Paying homage to New Orleans culture on the screen behind him, Maxwell delivered a heartfelt 40-minute performance packed with hits including "Fortunate," "Ascension," and "Lake By the Ocean." His band also honored the city by weaving in a live tribute to the Rebirth Brass Band's "Let's Go Get 'Em," infusing the show with authentic local musical spirit.
DAY 2
Erykah Badu Unexpectedly Shares The Screen
While it was clear that Erykah Badu was the star of her performance during the second night of the 2025 Essence Festival, what she didn't see coming was an unexpected co-star sharing the spotlight (the jumbotron) with her: American Sign Language interpreter Cheyenne Atkins.
Mid-set at the Superdome, the screen split in two with Badu on one side and Atkins on the other, projected larger-than-life on the massive screen. To Badu's surprise, Atkins was slightly stealing the spotlight with some serious "main character" energy.
True to her improvisational spirit, Badu embraced the moment, turning what could have been awkward into a perfectly surreal, unforgettable Essence experience.
Davido Brings Nigeria to NOLA
Davido turned up the heat at Essence Festival, lighting up the Superdome with a high-energy Afrobeats takeover. The Nigerian superstar brought his global swagger and stage presence, dropping hits from his latest album 5ive, including "Awuke," "Funds," and "Offa Me" featuring Victoria Monét.
More than just a show, Davido's set marked a milestone that highlighted Afrobeat's unstoppable rise on the world stage. With infectious grooves, crowd vibes, and undeniable charisma, he delivered an energy filled culturally powerful performance, celebrating African pride with sounds that keep Essence fresh and global.
Jill Scott Gave Out Flowers
Jill Scott brought full Philly flavor to the festival stage with a headlining set that was equal parts soul, storytelling, and spectacle. Dubbed the "Philly Jawn," her performance featured powerhouse guest appearances from the legendary Patti LaBelle and the powerhouse vocalist Jazmine Sullivan. It was truly a multigenerational celebration of vocal majesty.
True to form, Scott brought her usual theatrical flair. She rocked three show-stopping outfit changes, including a regal cape dress and a radiant sunburst crown that had the crowd on their feet. It was a night of Black woman magic, hometown pride, and timeless soul.
DAY 3
We All Exhaled After This Stunning Performance
Essence Festival turned up the vibe for the 30th anniversary of Waiting to Exhale with a soulful tribute curated by musical director Adam Blackstone.
The stage came alive with powerful performances from stars such as Keke Palmer, Andra Day, Yolanda Adams, Deborah Cox, and more, who each brought their own fire to classic tracks.
Keke Palmer's rendition of Brandy's "Sitting Up in My Room" stood out, leaving a lasting mark on the crowd. This tribute wasn't just a nod to a legendary film, but it was also a full-on celebration of love and womanhood.
Jermaine Dupri Reminds Us of The Legacy of Quincy Jones
Jermaine Dupri curated a heartfelt tribute to music legend Quincy Jones during the Sunday evening concert. Featuring a diverse lineup of artists including Tyrese, Al B. Sure!, SWV, Xscape, and many more, the tribute celebrated Jones' monumental influence across jazz, funk, hip hop, R&B, and pop.
Each performer brought their own flair to iconic tracks, highlighting his unmatched versatility and reaching across genres and generations.
Master P Made Us Say "Uhh" and "Goodbye"
Though we didn't want to say goodbye to our local homie, Master P, the legendary mogul informed us that this isn't the end, just the upgrade.
His farewell performance at the festival was something like a homegrown victory lap, and it was jam packed with energy. Back in the Superdome where it all began, the No Limit icon lit up the stage with hits including "Make 'Em Say Uhh!" and "Bout It, Bout It," reminding the crowd why he's a Southern rap legend.
Though a full No Limit reunion was clouded by the unfortunate absence of Mia X, the energy never dipped. The performance leaned into nostalgia with all signatures of P's brand and more.
Boyz II Men: The Perfect Closers
Boyz II Men certainly reminded us why they are still the kings of R&B. While the fest's final day was another very late one, they were well worth the wait. The iconic trio ran through a dream set of hits including "Motownphilly," "Water Runs Dry," "On Bended Knee," and many more.
Their on stage chemistry was undeniable with airtight vocals and harmonies. Not only was it not your average show, but it was the perfect way to close the festival.
And while it is true that many were very tired after the long and late night weekend, if you attended the concerts this year, you know that a good time was had.
