Image Courtesy RCA/Saccenti(NEW ORLEANS) — When Usher closed out Saturday night’s concerts at the Essence Music Festival 2015 in the New Orleans’ Superdome, he wanted to make a statement. After all, it was the Fourth of July, the day when America celebrates its Independence.
The R&B crooner wore a black leather jacket with the words, “Have we really achieved our independence,” written on the back in white lettering. And after he performed songs such as “OMG,” “Climax,” and “Here I Stand,” he eventually took his jacket off to reveal another message on his T-shirt. The words “Fourth of July” were crossed out and another word stood prominently underneath: “Juneteenth.”
Juneteenth is also known as Freedom Day for African-Americans and celebrates the abolition of slavery in the Confederate south. However, it’s typically celebrated on June 19.
Along with his statements, Usher also put on a good set. The Atlanta-bred singer performed “Nice & Slow,” “Love in the Club,” “Yeah!” and “Matrimony,” during which he brought out rapper Wale.
The Essence Music Festival continues Sunday night with concerts, featuring Floetry, Mary J. Blige, Omarion and Kendrick Lamar.
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