Jennifer Hudson, Usher, Fantasia bring new songs to Essence Fest mainstage Friday

I have not been to the Essence Musical Fesitival in years. When the list of performers was annnounced, I thought I would have been able to go. Unfortunatly, that is not the case. May be I can make it next year.

In its 17th season, the Essence Music Fest is still dressed to impress.

Patrons who file into the Louisiana Superdome tonight will bear witness to what, on paper at least, looks to be as entertaining an opening-night roster as Essence has ever presented.

Contemporary R&B leading man Usher, who filled the New Orleans Arena on his own in December, headlines tonight. Preceding him are reborn Gap Band frontman "Uncle" Charlie Wilson, slimmed-down, Cinderella story/Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson, live-wire "American Idol" alumna Fantasia, and reconstituted crooner ensemble Boyz II Men.

And that's just one stage, on one night.

Saturday's highlight is the return of Kanye West, who, despite various ill-advised pronouncements and actions, has amassed one of the most consistent and acclaimed catalogs in recent hip-hop history.

He follows nouveau soul sister Jill Scott and much-loved veterans Chaka Khan and El Debarge.

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