On a memorable Sunday night, the 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture marked a significant milestone with Frankie Beverly‘s final live performance, concluding 30 years of iconic shows. The evening, hosted by Keke Palmer and Big Tigger, featured a lineup of stellar performances at the Caesar’s Superdome, celebrating the festival’s rich history and Beverly’s remarkable career.
Star-studded performances light up the night
The festival’s final evening started with New Orleans’ Tank and The Bangas, followed by DJ Beverly Bond and a special segment titled They Have The Range, featuring Josh Levi. R&B legends SWV took the stage, delivering unforgettable renditions of their hits like “Week,” “Rain,” and “Right Here.” The night continued with performances by Durand Bernarr, Victoria Monét, and a surprise appearance by Lucky Daye.
The highlight of the evening was Janet Jackson’s performance, where she mesmerized the audience with hits spanning four decades, including “No Sleep” and “That’s The Way Love Goes,” culminating with the powerful “Rhythm Nation.”
A tribute to Frankie Beverly
The focus of the evening shifted to honor Frankie Beverly’s final farewell. The tribute included performances by Luke James and Anthony Hamilton, followed by the band’s new lead singer, Tony Lindsay, who performed several of Maze’s hits. The emotional highlight was when Beverly appeared on stage to accept a commemorative plaque from former New Orleans Mayor Marc Morial, receiving a standing ovation from an audience dressed in all white, a nod to Beverly’s signature style.
The 2024 ESSENCE Festival of Culture not only celebrated the past 30 years of musical excellence but also set the stage for future celebrations of Black culture and music. Frankie Beverly’s farewell was a fitting tribute to his enduring influence on the festival and his fans.
