Tamar Braxton & Keke Palmer Rock Essence Festival with Mary J. Blige & Brandy ‘Waiting to Exhale’ Tributes

Tamar Braxton and Keke Palmer took the stage and brought pure soul to the Superdome at the Essence Festival 2025.

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The annual New Orleans extravaganza always knows how to deliver an unforgettable moment, and this year’s tribute to the ‘Waiting to Exhale’ soundtrack was one for the books.

Braxton channeled her inner Mary J. Blige , serving raw emotion and flawless vocals on ‘Not Gon’ Cry.’ From the outfit giving full Mary realness, Braxton didn’t just perform, she shut Essence down.

Palmer followed, proving yet again there’s nothing she can’t do. Slipping into Brandy’s shoes, Keke brought fresh life to ‘Sittin’ Up in My Room.’ The performance tied the entire tribute together, leaving fans nostalgic and emotional.

Watch highlights:

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Great performances all round!