Lionel Richie gets a little help from Commodores to close out 15th annual Essence festival

Lionel Richie joined by Commodores at Essence fest

Final day of Essence Music Festival ends with tributes to Jakes, Maze and Frankie Beverly

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.

Beyonce, other artists at Essence Fest pay New Orleans-style tribute to Michael Jackson

NEW ORLEANS — Brass band musicians on trumpet, trombone and tuba belted out “A Closer Walk With Thee” as the Essence Music Festival gave a salute to Michael Jackson befitting a New Orleans jazz funeral procession.

Queen Latifah promotes beauty, empowerment at Essence Music Festival in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS — Queen Latifah dropped by the Essence Music Festival on Friday to help celebrate its 15th year of uplifting and empowering the African-American community through issues-filled seminars by day and high-powered musical performances by night.

Beyonce, Lionel Richie headline Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, celebrating balck music

NEW ORLEANS — The celebration of black music and culture at the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans will provide comfort to artists and fans alike after a tough week following Michael Jackson’s death.

Beyonce, Lionel Richie, Anita Baker headline 2009 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS — When the Essence Music Festival kicks off in New Orleans on Friday, singer Lionel Richie says the celebration of black music and culture will provide some comfort following Michael Jackson’s death.