Working the stage as only she can, Beyonce helped kick off the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, LA on Friday (July 3).

The star-studded even helps celebrate its 15th year of uplifting and empowering the African-American community through issues-filled seminars by day and high-powered musical performances by night.

Fellow performers taking the stage last night included John Legend, Ne-Yo and Salt-n-Pepa. Running through until Sunday, organizers expect this year’s bash to surpass last year’s attendance high of about 270 000.

As for Beyonce’s hubby Jay-Z’s whereabouts? He was all the way in Las Vegas performing a concert at the Palms Hotel. At one point during his set, the hip hop star paid tribute to Michael Jackson by showing his classic music video for I Want You Back.