Janelle Monáe was the second act to grace the mainstage on Sunday night of the ESSENCE Music Festival. While anticipation for Beyoncé was strong, the eclectic performer made sure all eyes were on her for the full duration of her 70-minute set. Aided by the backing of her band, Monáe gave life to songs from her “ArchAndroid” album, such as “Tightrope,” but left out singles from her upcoming album, ‘The Electric Lady.’
She connected with the audience through her tributes to Michael Jackson (“I Want You Back”), James Brown (appropriating his cape routine during “Tightrope”) and Prince (“Take Me With U” and “Let’s Go Crazy”). But it was her closing of “Come Alive (War of the Roses)” that thrilled, as she walked through the aisles dancing and sparking a call and response with fans. Once back on stage, Monáe, in true rock star form, threw down the mic and drums and stormed off stage.
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