The 2025 Essence Festival’s lineup features a blend of legacy and contemporary acts, including Maxwell, Master P, Boyz II Men, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker.
By Abioye Damilare Samson
Nigerian music superstar, Davido, has been confirmed as one of the headline performers at the 2025 Essence Festival, set to take place in New Orleans, Louisiana, from July 4th to 6th.
First launched in 1995 by Essence magazine, the festival has grown into one of the largest cultural celebrations of African American music, art, and heritage. Held annually, the event draws global audiences with its multi-day showcase of music, community, and culture.
This year’s lineup features a blend of legacy and contemporary acts, including Maxwell, Master P, Boyz II Men, GloRilla, The Isley Brothers, Nas, and Summer Walker.
The festival will also feature a tribute segment titled “ESSENCE Flowers”, honouring legendary music producer, Quincy Jones. Curated by Jermaine Dupri, the segment will pay homage to Jones’ decades-spanning influence following his passing in November 2024.
Davido, known for his global hits and energetic stage presence, joins the lineup as one of the few international performers, reinforcing Afrobeats’ continued rise on the global stage.
You can buy tickets here.