Saturday night of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture’s concert series featured the past, present and way forward for R&B/Soul music.

With Tiffany Haddish and Kenny Burns commanding the stage, the hilarious duo introduced the extremely talented Summer Walker shortly before 9:30pm, on what became a tremendous evening in Latest Orleans. The singer – who sported a stupendous baby bump – got here out to her song “Say My Name,” which the group recited word for word. She also performed “Girls Need Love” and “Talk Yo Sh*t.”

After Walker finished her 30-minute set, the Grammy Award-winning songstress Jazmine Sullivan hit the ESSENCE Festival stage. Sullivan, who has had a successful 2022 to date, opened with “Bust Your Windows,” before performing a canopy of “Killing Me Softly.” Sullivan went to her Heaux Tales ensemble, singing “On It,” then paid tribute to her day one fans by bringing the audience back to her first single “Need U Bad.”

Haddish and Burns got here back out for a bit to entertain the group before the legendary Patti LaBelle was slated to perform. The Philadelphia-born musician strutted out in a vibrant red outfit, reminding the group of why she has long been considered a fashion icon. LaBelle serenaded the audience along with her timeless hits resembling “Love, Need and Want You,” “If Only You Knew,” and “When You Talk About Love.” She then had a brief jam session along with her band and danced to Dr. Dre and Snoop Dogg’s “The Next Episode.”

LaBelle then transitioned “Any person Loves You Baby,” and “Lady Marmalade” right before considered one of the evening’s highlights occurred. Debbie Allen got here on stage and danced with LaBelle in what became a robust moment.

The various generations of R&B definitely showed up and showed out on the second night of the ESSENCE Festival of Culture. Walker, Sullivan, and LaBelle all showcased their amazing voices and flawless songwriting abilities. It was surely an evening to recollect!