Music
Kanye West, Mary J Blige for Essence Fest
Published Thursday, Feb 17 2011, 17:30 GMT | By Justin Harp
© Rex Features / Startraks Photo
The AP reports that Blige and West will be among more than 20 artists who will perform during the three-day event in July.
The expanded lineup includes 'Bottoms Up' singer Trey Songz, Boyz II Men, Macy Gray and American Idol's third season winner Fantasia Barrino.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductees George Clinton and Parliament-Funkadelic are scheduled to make a rare stage appearance as well.
The festival will also highlight several local New Orleans musicians such as Irma Thomas, the Charmaine Neville Band and Rebirth Brass Band.
The annual concert series has been held each summer since 1995 as a celebration of African-American culture and is sponsored by Essence magazine.
The 2011 Essence Music Festival is to be held from July 1 to July 3 at the Superdome in New Orleans.
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