2011 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL – DAY 2

B eyond the music performances, within the halls of the Convention Center, attendees were able to have the rare opportunity to have their voices heard by engaging with and learning from some of the most influential thinkers and leaders from the worlds of politics, health, arts and entertainment and spirituality, through the ESSENCE Empowerment Experience. Keeping within the theme of a Weekend of Transformation, participants were able to enjoy conversations with Steve Harvey, Iyanla Vanzant, Rev. Al Sharpton, David & Tamela Mann, Lance Gross, Keshia Knight Pulliam, Terry McMillan, NeNe Leakes, Tina Knowles, Regina King, and many others.

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T he 12th Annual All White Affair took place at Generations Halls in New Orleans. Laz Alonzo and Kenny Burns played host to guests Boris Kodjoe, The Real Housewives of Atlanta’s Cynthia Bailey, and actress Naturi Naughton. The party was one of the many events surrounding the Essence Music Festival.

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C omplicated souls, troubled souls, old souls and sterling souls at the top of their game highlighted the main stage lineup Saturday during the second night. El DeBarge, Chaka Khan, Jill Scott and Kanye West held down the key slots, while acts such as Stephanie Mills and Eric Benet performed in the smaller “super lounges” in the interior of the Louisiana Super Dome.

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