Bishop T. D. Jakes, Kirk Franklin, Pastor Shirley Caesar and More to Be Honored at the 2010 Essence Music Festival

Jada Pinkett Smith and Bishop T.D. Jakes are the latest additions to the ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL's three full days of free empowerment seminars that feature some of the biggest names in entertainment and the nation's most influential speakers, artists, authors and leaders.

Jada Pinkett Smith and ESSENCE Magazine editor-in-chief Angela Burt-Murray will host a "Q&A" addressing the importance of education and its role in character-building as part of the daylong commitment to education.

Later that day, Bishop T.D. Jakes-who was honored via an all-star tribute at the 2009 ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL-will deliver a Saturday keynote address on the Power Of Mentoring, focusing on the power of mentors and their role in keeping youths on track through encouragement and support. Attendees to the annual event-Friday, July 2, Saturday, July 3 and Sunday, July 4-will be treated this year to three full days of socio-political dialogue and spiritual inspiration led by dynamic motivational speakers at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

The ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2010 empowerment seminars kick off Friday (July 2) with Steve Harvey hosting a "Steve Harvey's Love & Relationships Super Fest," sponsored by My Black Is Beautiful. On Saturday (July 3), the seminars turn to education with the "Essence African-American Education Summit: Empowering Parents, Motivating Students, Closing the Gap and Fulfilling the Dream." The weekend will conclude with Sunday's (July 4) "All Star Gospel Salute to Kirk Franklin, Pastor Shirley Caesar, and Bishop Paul and Pastor Debra Morton."

The matching of the day-long experiences with live music late into the evening-all set against the classic backdrop of New Orleans-makes for a truly unique weekend. This year's multi-generational list of ESSENCE MUSIC FESTIVAL 2010 performers not only celebrates ESSENCE's 40-year commitment to music, but also honors the local music of New Orleans. This year, longtime festival participant Steve Harvey will also take part in the nightly musical celebrations serving as co-host for the three nights of Superdome musical performances with his radio colleague Nephew Tommy. Look for the full day-by-day schedule to be announced May 6 at www.essencemusicfestival.com.