Essence Festival ends 3 days of music, motivation

NEW ORLEANS — Inspiring gospel music and messages reigned supreme Sunday inside the Morial Convention Center on the final day of the Essence Music Festival which honored Bishop T.D. Jakes as part of its 15th annual celebration.

Some 7,000 people packed the convention center hall to witness the tribute to Jakes, the Dallas pastor who gave the inauguration day sermon in Washington, D.C. for President Barack Obama.

“He’s such a voice, such a man,” said Norful just before he paid Jakes tribute in song. “It’s a privilege to be a part of this celebration. We’re supposed to give honor to those who honor is due. He’s been such a phenomenal presence in my life through his preaching ministry, such a help to me from way back in the day and now, who knew I’d be on stage honoring him.”

A sermon by Bishop Eddie Long of Atlanta and performances by Norful as well as CeCe Winans, Kirk Franklin and Mary Mary highlighted the tribute.

Brian Courtney Wilson, whose release “Just Love” debuted at No. 2 on Billboard’s gospel chart, said he was glad to have the chance to meet Jakes. “He’s just larger than life and because he’s poured into so many people’s lives, having the opportunity to do so for him is just a blessing,” he said.

Wilson and Shari Addison, a finalist of BET’s gospel talent search show “Sunday Best,” both performed in the festival’s marketplace and signed autographs for fans.

Addison, a festival first-timer, said it’s appropriate that Essence decided to organize such a tribute for Jakes, pastor of The Potter’s House.

“His anointing is so great and powerful and he’s always so giving. I always ask, ‘Who cares for the caretaker?’ and this is our opportunity to pour back into him,” she said.

“I’m just having a blast,” she said. “I can’t believe I’m in the room with all these powerful people and now, these people are my peers. I just met CeCe Winans and she says, ‘I remember you from the show’ and I’m just so honored to be able to be a part of same ministry that she is.”

Lisa Johnson of Atlanta commended Essence on producing the festival, which has drawn more than 2 million people since its inception in 1995. Last year, the festival had a record-breaking 270,000 attendees.

“I think it’s awesome that they can get people together to have fun and no fighting,” she said.

Later Sunday, the festival closed out its “party with a purpose” at the Louisiana Superdome with performances by En Vogue, Lionel Richie, Teena Marie, Al Green and Maze, featuring Frankie Beverly.