Janet Jackson Performs at 2010 Essence Festival
Janet Jackson made a striking return to the stage on Friday night, headlining the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans in what was her first live performance in two years.
Dressed in a futuristic silver outfit and backed by a full troupe of dancers, the pop icon looked completely at home in front of the crowd. By every account — and by the concertgoer clips that quickly made their way online — her voice was strong and the audience was thrilled to see her back, especially given that this was her first major appearance since the loss of her brother Michael the year before.
It was a reminder of the sheer staying power of a great performer, and of how much a live crowd still craves the real thing. As a group that has always lived on stage, that’s something we understand completely.