Mary J. Blige, Kanye West headline Essence Fest

Trey Songz, Jill Scott and Fantasia also on the bill

By AP Staff Wednesday, Feb 16, 2011 10:37 PM

Kanye West

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Mary J. Blige, Trey Songz, Jill Scott and Kanye West are among the headliners for the 2011 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans.

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Michelle Ebanks, president of Essence Communications Inc., says the lineup also will include Charlie Wilson, Fantasia, Boyz II Men, Stephanie Mills, Macy Gray, Dwele, Alexander O'Neal & Cherrelle, Mint Condition, Kelly Price, M.C. Lyte and George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic.

Ebanks said Wednesday that the lineup includes musicians who fans asked to see. She says more artists will be added for the festival, which will be held July 1-3 in the Louisiana Superdome.

A number of local stars, including Irma Thomas, Kourtney Heart, the Charmaine Neville Band and Rebirth Brass Band also are scheduled to perform as part of the 17th annual event.

Copyright 2011 The Associated Press.