Alicia Keys Added As Headliner For Essence Music Festival

The upcoming Essence Music Festival now has two R&B divas headlining the bill.  On Tuesday it was announced that singer Alicia Keys will join Mary J. Blige as the festival’s marquee performers.  It will be Keys’ third appearance at the Essence Music Festival, and her first since 2005.  Other acts slated to perform include LL Cool J, Trey Songz, Keri Hilson and Estelle.  The Essence Music Festival will take place July 2nd to the 4th in New Orleans.  This year’s installment will honor the 40th anniversary of “Essence” magazine.  The 2010 festival will also celebrate the music of New Orleans and include special performances from artists like Arrested Development, Mint Condition, Mary Mary, and Monica.  For more information on the 2010 Essence Music Festival visit www.essencemusicfestival.com