Ruben Studdard to peform at Essence Music Festival in New Orleans

Aside from the music, there are also free "empowerment seminars" featuring Hill Harper, Niecy Nash, Sherri Shepherd, Bill Cosby, Jada Pinkett Smith and Steve Harvey.

Via Press Release:

As ESSENCE celebrates its 40th anniversary, this year’s ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL(EMF) is presenting three female headliners who are icons emblematic of the ESSENCE brand. Each night of the Fourth of July weekend-long celebration in New Orleans will conclude with a headlining performance from these powerful women: Janet Jackson (Friday, July 2), Alicia Keys (Saturday, July 3) and Mary J. Blige (Sunday, July 4). This year’s multi-generational list of performers also features some of today's greatest African-American artists and also honors the local music of New Orleans.

LINE-UP:
The 2010 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL night-by-night line-up (as of 5/6) is as follows
Friday, July 2

* Main stage: Janet Jackson, Charlie Wilson, Raphael Saadiq, Monica
* Superlounges: Chrisette Michele, Irma Thomas, Arrested Development, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Mary Mary, Irvin Mayfield & the NOJO, WAR, Little Freddie King.

Saturday, July 3

* Main stage: Alicia Keys, Gladys Knight, LL Cool J, Keri Hilson.
* Superlounges: Laura Izibor, Sam & Ruby, De La Soul, Kermit Ruffins & the BBQ Swingers, Mint Condition, Leo Jackson & Melody Clouds, Joe, Rebirth Brass Band

Sunday, July 4

* Main stage: Earth Wind & Fire, Mary J Blige, Jill Scott, Trey Songz.
* Superlounges: Estelle, Hot 8 Brass Band, Lalah Hathaway, Ivan Neville's Dumpstaphunk, Ruben Studdard, Shamarr Allen and The Underdawgs, Melanie Fiona, PJ Morton Band, Soul Rebels Brass Band.

Get your tickets at Essence Music Festival 2010