Essence Festival’s celebration of hip-hop’s 50th anniversary just got a little bigger. For the first time in the festival’s history, it has a headlining lineup of all Black women in hip-hop: Megan Thee Stallion, Ms. Lauryn Hill and new to the bill, Missy Elliott.

Elliott, who previously headlined Essence Fest in 2019, will return to the stage to entertain fans with some of her greatest hits.

Also added to the lineup are Big Boi, Big Daddy Kane, EPMD, Gucci Mane, KRS-One, Lil Jon, Ludacris, Muni Long, Slick Rick, Tems and T.I.

The 2023 Essence Festival will take place June 29 through July 3 at the Caesars Superdome in New Orleans. Previously announced performers include Wizkid, Monica and Coco Jones, as well as Doug E Fresh in a special hip-hop anniversary segment, and Jermaine Dupri, who will be celebrating So So Def’s 30th year. 

Copyright © 2023, ABC Audio. All rights reserved.