*New Orleans, LA Known as The Party With A Purpose, the Essence Music Festival has become the largest and most influential African American family festival & empowerment conference and concert in the world. And the 2010 version did not disappoint the thousands of concertgoers who poured into the Big Easy from July 2-4, 2010.

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Audreys Society Whirl: Janet Jackson brings the sexy back to 16th annual Essence Music Festival

Friday marks a year since Michael Jackson died at age 50.  Memorial services are scheduled around the world including one at the Apollo Theater in Harlem. And later at 5:26 p.m. -the time Jackson was declared dead-the Rev. Al Sharpton and the National Action Network will hold a moment of silence.

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Michael Jackson Death Anniversary

A year ago, the world watched as Michael Jackson balanced on the edge of a precipice. Behind the once-proclaimed King of Pop was a bleak stretch of pain and artistic decline. Ahead lay a series of 50 London concerts, a high-rolling bid to reassert his musical brilliance and re-establish control of his life.

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Michael Jackson’s final hours seemed normal – until he had difficulty getting to sleep.

A year ago, the world watched as Michael Jackson balanced on the edge of a precipice. Behind the once-proclaimed King of Pop was a bleak stretch of pain and artistic decline. Ahead lay a series …

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1 year later, AP timeline of Michael Jackson’s final hours shows struggle with inner turmoil

A year ago, the world watched as Michael Jackson balanced on the edge of a precipice. Behind the once-proclaimed King of Pop was a bleak stretch of pain and artistic decline. Ahead lay a series of 50 London concerts a high-rolling bid to reassert his musical brilliance and re-establish control of his life.

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AP timeline details Michael Jackson’s last day