CIARA, LUDACRIS, NE-YO, ROBIN THICKE & MORE ADDED TO ESSENCE MUSIC FEST: The Celebration 'Comes Home' to New Orleans July 5,6,7.

NEW YORK -- In an all-star lineup, Ciara, Ludacris, Ne-Yo, The O'Jays with Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill, Robin Thicke and Steve Harvey have been added to the Essence Music Festival roster, it was announced today by Essence Communications Inc. These artists join previously announced Beyonce, Chris Brown, Lionel Richie, Mary J. Blige and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly. "Ciara, Ludacris, Ne-Yo and Robin Thicke are amazing performers, new to the Essence Music Festival stage and we're so thrilled to have them," says Michelle Ebanks, president, Essence Communications Inc. "The O'Jays with Keith Sweat and Johnny Gill, along with Steve Harvey are all a part of the Essence Music Festival family and we welcome them back to New Orleans for our coming home celebration." The annual celebration will also kick off with a star-studded opening night gospel extravaganza. for mor information for actual schedule of performances please vist essence.com xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Tickets for the evening concerts are on sale immediately at ticketmaster.com, (800) 488-5252. A portion of the proceeds will support the Children's Defense Fund Freedom Schools in New Orleans. For updates on performers, hotel accommodations, ticket prices and weekly promotions log on to www.essence.com. xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx HOUSE OF GLITZ: THIS IS THE BEST LINE UP I HAVE EVER SEEN FOR THE ESSENCE FESTIVAL...HOUSE WILL BE IN THE HOUSE!!!!!