Latest news with #EssenceFestivalofCulture
Black America Web
10-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
TV One & CLEO TV Celebrate Black Culture & Flavor At Essence Eats
Source: Courtesy / TV One TV One and CLEO TV turned up the heat at this year's Essence Festival of Culture, serving up more than just good food. They dished out soul, storytelling, and Black excellence. Read more about the conversation inside. During the Essence Eats segment of the Essence Food & Wine Festival, TV One and CLEO TV hosted a lively panel titled 'Celebrating Culinary & Lifestyle Storytelling,' spotlighting the richness of Black culture through food, travel, and design. Moderated by Bossip Managing Editor Dani Canada, the conversation featured an all-star lineup. Emmy-nominated entertainer and culinary personality Tamar Braxton, celebrity chef and host Jernard Wells, and lifestyle expert Jazz Smollett all discussed the beauty of culinary and lifestyle storytelling. Together, they unpacked the magic behind their hit series—Braxton's hilarious and heartwarming Cooking Sessions with Tamar and Ms. E , Wells' flavorful travel show Savor the City , and Smollett's soulful and stylish Living by Design . In just 20 minutes, the trio dove deep into the power of storytelling through culture. Tamar spoke candidly about the importance of representation. 'TV One and CLEO TV allow us to be unapologetically Black,' she commented. 'We get to live out loud and be proud.' Wells echoed the sentiment, praising the platforms for their authenticity. 'They let us tell OUR stories. Unfiltered,' Wells shared. Smollett highlighted the joy of connecting with real people through her work saying, 'It's a lot of fun to touch people's lives.' The panel was informative and electric. Audience members laughed, clapped, and nodded along as the conversation touched on everything from preserving cultural traditions to breaking barriers in lifestyle programming. The stars reflected on how food, travel, and design are more than content. They're tools for celebration, healing, and connection. With Black creators at the helm, TV One and CLEO TV continue to elevate voices that mainstream media often overlooks. This Essence Eats panel was a perfect example of the networks' mission: to amplify authentic, resonant stories that reflect the richness of the Black experience. From kitchen laughs to cross-country flavors and bold design inspiration, these creators are proving that lifestyle content isn't just about aesthetics. Instead, it's about heart, history, and community. This weekend, TV One and CLEO TV reminded everyone that Black storytelling is not just thriving, but it's leading the way. SEE ALSO TV One & CLEO TV Celebrate Black Culture & Flavor At Essence Eats was originally published on
USA Today
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Lauryn Hill slams Essence Festival 'nonsense': 'Delays were not my fault'
Lauryn Hill is slamming the narrative surrounding her 2025 Essence Festival of Culture performance delays over the holiday weekend. The "Killing Me Softly With His Song" hitmaker took to social media Tuesday, July 8, to address "nonsense" surrounding her Essence Fest set, thanking "Essence for clarifying that the delays were not my fault." Hill took the stage at 2:30 a.m. local time in New Orleans for the annual festival and celebration of Black culture on Friday, July 4, to a smaller crowd than she would typically attract. "Family, let me address a few things: I am involved in every aspect of what it takes to put on my shows, because it requires THAT much involvement to protect the integrity of my message and the quality of what I do," Hill added. Lauryn Hill says media 'sensationalism' led to abrupt cancellation of US anniversary tour The music legend said she plans for performances "diligently" while "also being a parent, grandparent and steward to my immediate family and community," adding that she does so "without complaint because it is truly labor of love and great passion for me." The eight-time Grammy winner, long the subject of controversy surrounding her performance tardiness, was previously praised by Essence, an outlet whose core audience is Black women, in an Instagram post June 6 following a People magazine article highlighting the lateness to the stage. "Family is family and around here we protect our own no matter what the PEOPLE have to say. Let's be very clear— WE don't play about Ms. Lauryn Hill. Not for clicks. Not for headlines," the caption read. She arrived on schedule, stepped on that stage, and delivered the kind of performance only a legend can." A post shared by ESSENCE (@essence) 'Y'all lucky I make this stage': Lauryn Hill defends concert tardiness during LA show "The delay? Not hers. We will take that. The moment? One for the books. The legacy? Still unmatched. Put some respect on her name. Keep the takes, but keep her out of them," the statement continued. "All love and deep profound admiration for Ms. Lauryn Hill." Last year, Hill and her hip-hop group Fugees, who were set to kick off a new leg of The Miseducation Anniversary Tour beginning this month, abruptly canceled their U.S. tour dates. But in her own Instagram post this week, Hill dismissed the backlash about her Essence Fest performance timing. "There seems to be a misconception out there that I am somewhere on the Riviera with my feet up, drink in hand, showing up to concerts whenever because I'm too important to care," Hill said, adding that the narrative is "nonsense… and anyone who's been a part of these productions knows that IN FACT the opposite is true." "Those of us who are still out here grinding to present an alternative to the divisive, to the shallow, to the controlled, and to the intentionally limiting narrative of our representation do what it takes to do so," Hill added. "We are here, pushing through the resistance." "Ask yourself how and why I'm still standing after years of public effort to defame me?" Hill asked. "Because someone has to do it!" Stephanie Mills 'grateful' but concerned about Essence Festival 'professionalism' Hill wasn't the only one to take issue with the Essence Fest snags. In an open letter to Essence Festival organizers posted publicly to her social media July 7, Mills expressed concern over the event's "overall level of professionalism" following her Sunday performance. "While I remain grateful for the opportunity to have participated, my overall experience was unfortunately marred by significant production issues that negatively impacted both my performance and the artist experience as a whole," the performer wrote. Mills told fans that "the schedule and time management were severely lacking, creating a chaotic and stressful environment backstage" and noted that there were "technical difficulties, specifically concerning the sound system" that "proved deeply problematic." Mills called for a "comprehensive review of organizational structure and operational management." Contributing: Edward Segarra
Black America Web
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
The Ultimate 2025 Essence Festival Recap
Source: Courtesy of Joce Blake / Courtesy of Joce Blake I've heard the whispers on Beyoncé's internet, the murmurs suggesting that Essence Festival has somehow lost its 'essence.' And while it's true that the experience has evolved, and there's always room for a little more streamlined management, I'm here to tell you definitively that those claims are far from the mark. Our people were there, in droves. Representing the vibrant spirit of Black culture and community. They were, without a doubt, having an absolute ball. The energy was palpable, a testament to the enduring power of this incredible gathering. The annual Essence Festival of Culture, known as 'a party with a purpose,' has grown significantly since its inception in 1995. It was originally a single event commemorating Essence Magazine's 25th anniversary. It now draws hundreds of thousands to the Crescent City each year. Over the past two decades, the festival has become a vital platform for promoting, celebrating, and exploring various facets of our community. From health & wellness, spirituality, beauty & style, food, community & culture, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. This millennial has decided to share some of the experiences, stays and eats that are sure to make your Essence Festival one to remember moving forward. The festival offers an array of experiences, including engaging panel discussions, diverse shopping opportunities, meet-and-greets and activities at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. The Superdome hosts continuous live music, showcasing top artists in R&B, soul, funk, gospel, and hip-hop. Beyond these official events, numerous activations take place throughout the city. Here are some of the most memorable ones. Sheaversity with SheaMoisture Source: Courtesy of SheaMoisture One thing about this beauty brand, they are gonna have a time! SheaMoisture lit up Essence Fest weekend with a vibrant celebration of Sheaversity—a joyful tribute to individuality, culture, and community. From immersive experiences to star-studded moments, the brand created an unforgettable presence on and off the yard. The Sheaversity Roll Call welcome party was complete with dope music, drinks, vibes and some of our favorite content creators. Not to mention, the NOLA GOAT, Juvenile, gave us a once-in-a-lifetime performance. At the Convention Center, festival-goers were invited to step into the world of SheaMoisture with interactive brand activations, hair styling stations, exclusive product drops, and plenty of surprises. Saturday morning brought the Sheaversity takeover to Loretta's Authentic Pralines. Guests indulged in a custom café combo—two iconic beignets and an Arnold Palmer—on the house. There were also complimentary SheaMoisture samples and a curated weekend syllabus to enhance the Essence vibes. Then, they took center stage at Beautycon inside the Convention Center. Hosted by Netflix star Forever's Lovie Simone and journalist Asia Ware, the segment featured a celebration of Miss Sheaversity and breathtaking looks from celebrity stylist and SheaMoisture Education Partner Lacy Redway. It was a moment of beauty, brilliance, and Black girl magic that left the audience inspired. From the booth to the beignets, SheaMoisture made sure the Sheaversity spirit was alive all weekend long—celebrating culture, community, and self-expression in true Essence Fest fashion. National Urban League Women in Harmony Luncheon Source: Courtesy of National Urban League Next, the National Urban League hosted its 6th Annual Women in Harmony Awards Luncheon. Held at the Ritz-Carlton in New Orleans, we celebrated Black women who lead, create, and transform. Under the theme Her Power, Her Prosperity, the red carpet affair honored Patti LaBelle, Mara Brock Akil, U.S. Rep. Jasmine Crockett, and Danessa Myricks. Over 350 guests enjoyed inspiring speeches, performances by GRAMMY winners Howard Hewett and MAJOR, and a wellness-focused Self-Care Lounge featuring beauty activations from Danessa Myricks Beauty and others. NUL President Marc H. Morial and SVP Rhonda Spears Bell praised the honorees for using their platforms to uplift and empower communities nationwide. Kensington Grey x EssenceGU Creator Mixer Source: Shatimah Monaé Photography Kensington Grey and Essence GU hosted an unforgettable #HouseOfInfluence mixer in the heart of New Orleans. Held at the stylish Common House , the event brought together a dynamic community of creators, clients, and culture-shapers for an evening of food, drinks, and connection. The space buzzed with good vibes and meaningful conversations as guests dripping in all-white looks mingled with the teams behind Kensington Grey and Essence GU. The mixer served as a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the influential power of Black voices shaping the digital space and beyond. With a backdrop of music, curated bites, and genuine community, #HouseOfInfluence lived up to its name—creating a space where talent and impact came together in true Essence Fest style. Black Excellence Brunch In a powerful tribute to Black joy, beauty, and cultural brilliance, the Black Excellence Brunch, founded by Trell Thomas, partnered with L'Oréal USA for an exclusive, invite-only experience during Essence Festival 2025. Set against the elegant backdrop of Messina's at the Terminal , the all-white-attire brunch brought together changemakers, creatives, and cultural tastemakers from across the country. The afternoon was a vibrant celebration of Black excellence, featuring elevated dining, inspiring storytelling, and intentional community building. Honoring trailblazers across beauty, sports, and entertainment, the event highlighted the undeniable impact and resilience of Black leaders who continue to shape the culture. Notable attendees included the astounding Olympian Jordan Chiles, media powerhouse Angela Rye, actress Crystal Renee Hayslett, R&B singer Raheem DeVaughn, actress Tia Alexandria, and L'Oréal USA ambassadors and executives. The atmosphere was electric with connection, purpose, and pride, reinforcing the brunch's mission to honor legacy while building a thriving future. The Black Excellence Brunch x L'Oréal USA partnership was a standout moment of Essence Festival. Black culture wasn't just celebrated, it was centered and elevated. The Pontchartrain Hotel Steeped in Southern style and distinct European flair, The Pontchartrain Hotel blends modern luxury with its original 1927 architecture. This historic hotel, conveniently located on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, offers anything-but-ordinary accommodations. Within the luxurious confines of the hotel, guests can choose from a trio of exceptional dining and entertainment options. Perched high above the city, Hot Tin offers a sophisticated rooftop lounge experience. It is perfect for enjoying handcrafted cocktails and panoramic views. For a more formal culinary journey, Jack Rose, the hotel's signature restaurant, presents an exquisite menu crafted with the finest ingredients. Those seeking a delightful start to their day will find the Silver Whistle Café ready to serve a delicious breakfast. The hotel is home to the truly iconic Bayou Bar, a vibrant jazz spot steeped in history and legend. This lively establishment is not only renowned as the very birthplace of the New Orleans Saints NFL team, but it also boasts a storied past as a favored haunt of Hollywood's elite. Literary giant Tennessee Williams and legendary crooner Frank Sinatra were among the celebrated figures who frequently graced its hallowed halls, adding to its rich tapestry of charm and allure. Hotel Monteleone Hotel Monteleone, a historic and independent family-owned property, has graced the French Quarter for over a century, now under its fifth generation of ownership. This iconic 523-room hotel blends timeless luxury with modern comforts, highlighted by the recently renovated Iberville Tower. Renowned for its unique offerings, Hotel Monteleone is home to the Carousel Bar & Lounge, New Orleans' first and only revolving bar. Culinary delights await at Criollo Restaurant, where seasonal, ingredient-driven menus showcase the best of New Orleans cuisine. With an exclusive rooftop pool and a central French Quarter location, Hotel Monteleone provides the perfect base for exploring New Orleans' vibrant culture. Drago's No visit to New Orleans or Essence Festival is truly complete without indulging in the culinary delight that is Drago's chargrilled oysters. This iconic dish has become synonymous with a quintessential NOLA experience. Drawing in locals and tourists alike with its irresistible aroma and mouth-watering flavor. The oysters, fresh from the Gulf, are grilled to perfection over an open flame. Their natural brininess enhanced by a generous bath of garlic butter, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, and a secret blend of herbs and spices. Jack Rose Hands down, this was one of the best meals I've ever had. An homage to Tennessee Williams' play 'The Rose Tattoo,' the hotel's signature restaurant is a manifestation of New Orleans' love of celebration through food and drink. This spot offers an eclectic and vibrant dining experience that feels like home in the Garden District. The Lil Wayne portrait is the perfect love letter. Criollo Much like the city of New Orleans, this restaurant is a vibrant blend of cultures. Its ingredient-driven, seasonal menus artfully combine land and sea, achieving a delightful balance of long-standing tradition and contemporary tastes. It has a strong focus on the abundance of the Gulf and a distinct Louisiana flair. Hot Tin First, an intimate rooftop bar. This former penthouse offers champagne and vibrant cocktails. A 270-degree panorama of Downtown New Orleans and the Mississippi River. The interior, designed to evoke a 1940s artist's loft, is airy and eclectic. It features comfortable couches and a captivating display of curios that blend the past with the present. Glass accordion doors open to a balcony with unparalleled Downtown views. A more private second terrace provides a bird's-eye perspective of Saint Charles Avenue. Carousel Bar The world-renowned Carousel Bar, an iconic destination for over 70 years, continues to spin. Having served countless cocktails and witnessed infamous rendezvous involving figures like Liberace, Tennessee Williams, and Louis Prima. Mixologist Marvin Allen and Tour Director Mike Dupree lead an in-depth, private exploration of the bar's illustrious history, highlighting its legendary patrons and celebrated cocktails. It includes the quintessential Sazerac and Hotel Monteleone's own masterpiece, the Vieux Carré. A great stop on your Essence Festival tour! St. Noir Cafe MUST READ: Brewing Black Excellence: 5 Black-Owned Coffee Shops to Visit During Essence Fest Last but not least, St. Noir, located in the vibrant Upper 8th Ward, is more than just a café. It's a hub for community and intentional living. This Black-owned establishment seamlessly combines exceptional coffee and exquisite wine with carefully curated events that champion art, culture, and social connection. With soulful playlists and collaborations with local leaders, St. Noir is an essential stop for anyone wanting to experience the energy of New Orleans' contemporary Black Renaissance. Don't miss their divine Praline Au Lait and praline croissant. SEE ALSO The Ultimate 2025 Essence Festival Recap was originally published on
Black America Web
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Black America Web
Keke Palmer Shines At Essence Fest & Teases New Film ‘The Pickup'
Source: Courtesy / MRKT Co Keke Palmer shut down Essence Festival this year in true multi-hyphenate fashion this past weekend, bringing her hit podcast Baby, This is Keke Palmer to the mainstage for a special live episode that had the crowd buzzing. Read more inside. Held in New Orleans, the Essence Festival of Culture has always been a space for Black joy, empowerment, and entertainment. Keke delivered all three. Joined by special guest and fellow powerhouse Kandi Burruss, Palmer hosted a live taping that was full of laughs, love, and behind-the-scenes gems. Fans packed the venue to hear unfiltered conversations from two industry icons, with moments that felt like catching up with your favorite homegirls. Keke also surprised the audience with an exclusive sneak peek at her upcoming film The Pickup , a high-octane comedy-heist hitting Prime Video on August 6. It's giving action star era . In The Pickup , Palmer stars as Zoe, a savvy criminal mastermind who flips a routine armored truck job into total chaos. With Eddie Murphy and Pete Davidson leading the cast as two drivers caught in the middle of the madness, the film promises action, laughs, and a whole lot of unexpected twists. Palmer's role brings the heat and the brains. She continues her reign as one of Hollywood's most versatile stars. Directed by Tim Story and produced by a powerhouse team including Murphy himself, The Pickup also features Eva Longoria, Ismael Cruz Córdova, Marshawn Lynch, and WWE superstar Joe 'Roman Reigns' Anoa'i. With an R-rating and a tight 94-minute run time, it's the kind of summer flick that blends blockbuster thrills with smart, comedic timing. Palmer naturally shines at the center of it all. Between her unforgettable Essence Fest moment and the upcoming release of The Pickup , Palmer continues to show why she's a cultural force who can do it all. Whether she's podcasting, producing, or playing a criminal savant on screen, Keke is booked, busy, and boldly in her bag. Be sure to mark your calendars as The Pickup premieres August 6 on Prime Video. SEE ALSO Keke Palmer Shines At Essence Fest & Teases New Film 'The Pickup' was originally published on
Yahoo
08-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Stephanie Mills Writes Open Letter To Essence Fest Over 'Organizational Shortcomings'
Stephanie Mills has penned an open letter to the organizers of the 2025 Essence Festival of Culture, detailing the 'multifaceted challenges' she faced while performing for the event. The R&B diva shared the letter to her Instagram account Tuesday (July 8) following the conclusion of the New Orleans festival Sunday (July 6) night. Mills performed the final night and also attended the festival's National Urban League Women In Harmony Awards Luncheon Saturday (July 5). 'I am writing to share my feedback following my performance at this year's Essence Festival,' she began, adding that while she was appreciative of the platform, her performance was, 'marred by significant production issues that negatively impacted both my performance and the artist experience as a whole.' She continued, 'The challenges I encountered were multifaceted and, in my view, indicative of broader organizational shortcomings. The scheduling and time management were severely lacking, creating a chaotic and stressful environment backstage. This disorganization cascaded unto the stage, impacting the flow of the event and ultimately diminishing the quality of the performances.' Mills — who just completed the first leg of The Queens Tour alongside Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, and Gladys Knight — also insisted that technical issues were 'persistent,' adding, 'This lack of technical preparedness is unacceptable for an event of Essence Festival's caliber and prestige.' She later added that the overall level of professionalism 'fell far short of the standards I expect from such a highly regarded festival,' insisting that organizers take an extensive look at this year's failings before moving forward with future plans. Check out the full letter below. More from Lauryn Hill Performs For Nearly Empty Superdome At Essence Fest Hours After Scheduled Set Master P Responds To Mia X's Refusal To Perform With Him At ESSENCE Fest The Queens Tour: A Celebratory, Iconic Flex Of Legendary Status
