ESSENCE Festival 2025 Honors Black Culture with Master P's Final Bow

The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture, presented by Coca-Cola, concluded on July 6 in New Orleans, marking its 31st year as a premier celebration of Black culture, music, and arts. This year's festival was particularly notable for its "Made Like This" theme, reflecting the resilience and brilliance of Black artistry, and for hosting hip-hop mogul Master P's final performance.

The festival's lineup featured a diverse array of performances. On Friday, July 4, attendees enjoyed sets by R&B legends Maxwell and Babyface, along with The Isley Brothers and rising rap star GloRilla. Saturday, July 5, showcased "A Philly Jawn," a medley led by Jill Scott and featuring Patti LaBelle and Jazmine Sullivan, as well as performances by Afrobeats star Davido, Erykah Badu, Buju Banton, Summer Walker, and Moliy. The festival concluded on Sunday, July 6, with Master P's farewell performance, alongside Nas, Doug E. Fresh, and a tribute to Quincy Jones curated by Jermaine Dupri, featuring artists like Tyrese, Robin Thicke, Al B. Sure!, Xscape, MC Lyte, The Pharcyde, Mobb Deep, and SWV.

Master P, born Percy Miller, is a New Orleans native who founded No Limit Records in the 1990s, significantly influencing the city's rap scene and the broader hip-hop industry. His farewell performance at the Caesars Superdome was a highlight of the festival. Reflecting on his career, Master P stated, "I'm proud to take my final bow at the ESSENCE Festival of Culture® in my hometown." He emphasized his commitment to the community, noting, "Helping these kids get college degrees and stay off the streets—that's my purpose."

The festival also saw the return of the ESSENCE Super Lounges, intimate performance spaces that have long been a fan favorite. These venues offered attendees the chance to experience rising stars and music legends up close, delivering raw, unforgettable sets in a more personal setting.

Daytime events at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center offered panels, workshops, and cultural showcases, providing attendees with opportunities to engage in community, conversation, and curated discovery. Offerings included the ESSENCE Food & Wine Festival™, BEAUTYCON™ @ ESSENCEFEST Edition, AFROPUNK BLKTOPIA™, the ESSENCE Film Festival® by ESSENCE STUDIOS™, ESSENCE Authors™, SOKO MRKT™, GBEF® HQ, and the ESSENCE® GU® Kickback.

The ESSENCE Festival has grown into the largest celebration of Black culture and music in the U.S., driving nearly $1 billion in economic impact and anchoring itself as a space where heritage and innovation intersect. The festival's return to in-person celebrations marked a significant moment for the community, reinforcing its role as a cultural and economic engine for New Orleans.

Since its inception in 1994, the ESSENCE Festival has been a cornerstone event celebrating Black culture and music. The festival was briefly moved to Houston in 2006 due to Hurricane Katrina but returned to New Orleans in 2007. Over the years, it has significantly boosted the local economy, generating over $2 billion.

The City of New Orleans implemented comprehensive security and logistical measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all attendees. This included increased staffing across all police districts, traffic and road closures in the French Quarter, and enhanced sanitation services.

The 2025 ESSENCE Festival of Culture not only celebrated the rich legacy of Black excellence but also set the stage for future generations to continue the tradition of resilience, creativity, and cultural affirmation.