NEW ORLEANS (AP) - Beyonce is the first artist lined up for next year's Essence Music Festival in New Orleans.

Organizers of the festival announced Tuesday the singer has confirmed her participation.

The July event will mark the 15th anniversary of the celebration of black music and culture. The festival will include more than 12 musical acts a day.

The festival had one of its biggest turnouts this year with more than 270,000 attendees. Performers at the last event included Mary J. Blige and LL Cool J

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