The 18th annual Essence Music festival has announced their star studded lineup for the 2012 music festival to be held on July 6, 7 & 8 2012. The theme for this years event is “Celebrating The Power Of Our Voices, and there is much to be celebrated with this plethora of powerhouse performers.

Slated to perform at the Louisiana Superdome include Aretha Franklin, Fantasia, Dru Hill, Keyshia Cole, SWV, Charlie Wilson, Raheem DeVaughn, Goapele, Estelle, Vivian Green, Ledisi, Stephanie Mills, Kindred the Family Soul, Luke James, Bridget Kelly, Eric Roberson, Sam’s Funky Nation, The Original Pinettes Brass Band, The Stooges Brass Band and Khris Royal & Dark Matter. Essence will also be honoring vocal powerhouse Aretha Franklin with “The Power Award”.