Essence Music Festival Relocated to Houston

Let the good times roll! Due to the devastating blow the city of New Orleans took as a result of Hurricane Katrina, the annual Essence Music Festival has been relocated to Houston, TX. Festival goers will take comfort in knowing that while the venue has changed, as usual, the festival promises a great time and an all-star line up.

Each year the EMF has something for everyone. And this year is no exception. Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, an EMF constant, is back this year. In addition, more seasoned festival goers will also get a kick out the musical stylings of the legendary Earth, Wind, and Fire as well as former Gap Band member Charlie Wilson.

After15 weeks on Billboard's Hot 100, and still coming in at number five, with her single "Be Without You", the queen of hip-hop soul, Mary J. Blige, will also be performing. Joining her are R&B veteran Toni Braxton and powerful newcomer Keyshia Cole. For hip-hop lovers, this year the EMF is bringing an old school rapper with new school flava. None other than the "bad" LL Cool J, whose new album, Todd Smith, is scheduled for release on April 25th. Gospel fans can look forward to the encouraging and uplifting performance of Grammy-winning gospel superstar Yolanda Adams, a Houston resident. And crowds of all mature ages will find enough royal humor to go around. Lined up for this year's EMF are Original Kings of Comedy Steve Harvey and Cedric the Entertainer along with Queen of Comedy Monique.

If your circle of friends, family, or co-workers is looking for a summer travel opportunity, the EMF is the perfect place for great music, great laughs, and a great time. In addition to the excitement of the festival, the city of Houston has lots to offer including wonderful shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.

The event will take place July 1,2, and 3 in Houston's Reliant Park. Tickets are on sale now through Ticketmaster. Ticket prices range from $45 to $110.00. Also, hotel and travel discounts may be available. This is going to be one of the hottest events of the summer and you won't want to miss it. For more information, you should check out the EMF on www.essence.com. For more information about things to do in and around the city of Houston, check out the city's official destination website at http://www.visithoustontexas.com/home/.