Perhaps one of the most anticipated performances at this years ESSENCE Music Festival was D’Angelo. He gave us a sample at the 2012 BET Awards a couple weeks ago. It has been 12 years since his last album release (Voodoo)  and he has since been under the radar.

D’Angelo took the stage Friday night at the Superdome; he looked good and appeared happy to be back performing. His set included many tunes that I assume we can expect to hear from him on his next album. His energy was great and is definitely one of my favorite performers. His attire and mannerisms on stage suggested he channeled his inner Jimi Hendrix.

He caught some heat from fans as he only performed ‘Lady’ , ‘When we get by’ and ‘Sh*t’, D*nm, Mother-fer’ from his Brown Sugar album. He serenaded the crowd while playing the piano during ‘How does it feel’. Not sure if I’m alone on this, but considering his hurdles and overcoming addictions I loved his performance. I can appreciate that he is back doing what he loves; we cannot expect to re-live the naked ‘how does it feel’ video.  I sincerely hope to see him again at Essence.

In the meantime, D’Angelo has announced he will join Mary J.Blige on the Liberation tour set to begin next month. I’m excited to see D’Angelo doing what he loves; yes, call it a come back!

Photo Credit: Atlanta Tastemaker Magazine