The ESSENCE Festival of Culture just added even more star power to its 2026 lineup. Source: Mike Coppola / Frazer Harrison This week, organizers announced that Babyface, Public Enemy, and Leon Thomas are among the latest artists joining this year's stacked Evening Concert Series. These new additions come alongside previously announced performers like Cardi B, Latto, Kehlani, Patti LaBelle, Brandy and Monica.