NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The Essence Music Festival has plenty to celebrate this year. And it will be about a lot more than music, said Michelle Ebanks, president of Essence Communications Inc.

Young Money/Cash Money/Universal Motown recording artist Lil Wayne is gearing up to release his highly anticipated album Tha Carter III, the final in the trilogy, on May 13th.

Pint–sized, soul stirring songstress Teena Marie has undeniably been a force to be reckoned with in the nearly thirty years of her professional performing career. The accomplished singer, songwriter, producer and arranger has managed to consistently capture the hearts and spirits of millions fans with her music.