Luther Vandross, hospitalized since suffering a stroke two months ago, won't be able to perform at this year's Essence Music Festival, as he usually does. To honor the stricken singer, Ashanti, Patti LaBelle and others will perform an all-star tribute July 4th, the festival's second day, at the New Orleans Superdome.

The concert will feature the songs that Vandross, the Eighties' most successful soul singer, built his career on, originals like "Never Too Much" as well as songs he made his own, like "Here and Now."

Also set to participate in the tribute are Faith Evans, Kelly Price and Vandross' band. All proceeds from the night's ticket sales will go to a charity to be designated by the Vandross family.

The 2003 Essence Music Festival kicks off July 3rd at the Superdome with performances by Stevie Wonder, Erykah Badu and Jamie Foxx. Also on the weekend's bill are LL Cool J, Smokey Robinson and Jaheim. Other performers will be announced in the coming weeks.

AUGUSTIN SEDGEWICK
(June 11, 2003)