Prince: (July 2, 2004) “Essence Festival celebrates 10 years” - The Birmingham News

Publication: The Birmingham News (Birmingham, Alabama)

Date: Friday, July 2, 2004 Section: Entertainment Today / Music

“Essence Festival celebrates 10 years”

Major feature on the Essence Festival marking its 10th anniversary in 2004. The article highlights the event’s growth into a massive cultural celebration expected to draw over 150,000 fans, with Prince as the opening headliner.

Key Content

Notable Mentions

The festival, produced by Essence magazine, combines music, empowerment, spirituality, and education. Prince expressed his love for the event, saying he tries to attend whenever he can because of the “good energy.” He opened the festival at the Superdome in New Orleans. Other performers included Mary J. Blige, LL Cool J, Gladys Knight, Donnie McClurkin, and a reunited New Edition (sans Bobby Brown).

The piece reflects on the festival’s history since 1995, its positive and uplifting message, and its importance to Black culture. It also discusses past controversies (e.g., R. Kelly in 1999) and the organizers’ commitment to a family-friendly atmosphere while celebrating Black talent and empowerment.

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