Fans who stuck around for Hill’s performance got a treat. A robust band of more than 10 members played as Black history montages filled the background screens. Hill emerged in a blue polka dot full-length dress wearing a gele atop her head and a low-hanging statement necklace showcasing what appeared to be fertility figurines.

Essence Festival is taking the blame for Lauryn Hill's set being delayed until the wee hours of Friday night (July 4), when she ended up touching the New Orleans Superdome stage after 2:30 a.m. ET first thing Saturday morning.

Essence has stepped in to make it crystal clear that no slander against Ms. Lauryn Hill will be tolerated following her perceived “late” performance at Essence Fest 2025. In an Instagram post in response to backlash, the festival issued a loving and firm statement backing the star.