Gospel Music Recording artists Mary Mary and Fred Hammond will be honored at the upcoming 2012 Essence Music Festival on Sunday, July 8 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans.
Gospel performers also slated to perform for the all-star tribute weekend include Kim Burrell, Yolanda Adams, Maurette Brown Clark, Byron Cage, Tyronne Foster & the Arc Singers, Tramaine Hawkins, Israel Houghton, Bishop Lester Love and Pastor Marvin Winans.
The event culminates the annual Essence Empowerment Experience that takes place July 6-8 where attendees will celebrate the power of their spirits and enjoy uplifting experience of entertainment and empowerment.
Kirk Franklin has also been announced to return to the main stage. The previously announced line-up includes the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Mary J. Blige, Charlie Wilson, Ledisi, American Idol winner Fantasia, Stephanie Mills and Keyshia Cole. In addition, rapper/actress Eve, along with Robert Glasper, Gary Clark Jr. and Alex Boyd will appear for the first time at the Louisiana Superdome. More talent additions will be announced in the near future.
Now in its 18th year, the Essence Music Festival is the nation’s largest annual gathering of African-American music and culture. For information about ticket sales, accommodations and the latest news about the Essence Music Festival, visit http://www.essence.com/festival or the Essence Music Festival Twitter site.
article courtesy of TheBelleReport.com
