Essence Festival Responds to Stephanie Mills Criticism With Statement About ‘Power of Love’

Stephanie Mills performs onstage during Day 3 of the 2025 Essence Festival of Culture in New Orleans. (Credit: Getty Images for Essence Festival)

Organizers of The Essence Festival of Culture have expressed “deep admiration” for Stephanie Mills after the R&B legend criticized the festival for what she described as a lack of professionalism at the annual event, which took place over the July 4th weekend.

Mills released an open letter to the festival on Tuesday, July 8, saying her performance wasn’t what it should have been because of “production issues.”

“The challenges I encountered were multifaceted,” she wrote. “The scheduling and time management were severely lacking, creating a chaotic and stressful environment backstage. This disorganization cascaded onto the stage, impacting the flow of the event and ultimately diminishing the quality of the performances.”

Related: Essence Festival Attendees Urge Organizers to ‘Turn Things Around’ After Missteps

A few hours later, the festival responded with a statement on social media. The post included footage of the Grammy-winning songstress performing her hit single “I Have Learned To Respect The Power Of Love” and referenced her song “Home.”

“Ms. Stephanie Mills, thank you,” Essence began. “Thank you — for your voice, your presence, and your support of Essence Festival through the years. You have always and will always feel like home.”

“To witness a living legend command our Essence Festival Superlounge stage, reminding us all why you’re a timeless icon, was a true gift. We are honored that you chose the Essence Festival of Culture to kick off your summer tour. (We will be there) Thank you for being a continued part of culture, community and us. We love you, we celebrate you, and we will always make room for your light. With deep admiration and live,” the statement continued.

As previously reported, Mills wasn’t the only attendee disappointed by the 2025 festival.

From events starting late, to unexpected changes to the superlounge experience, to questions about Target sponsoring the festival amid a national boycott of the retailer by some African Americans because of its rollback of DEI policies, there have been many complaints.

While returning attendees were vocal on social media about the problems, many also expressed hope that Essence Fest will return to its roots next year.


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