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The celebrities were out in full force in New Orleans over the weekend, during the Essence Music Festival. Music legends, prominent African-American actors, politicians and reality TV stars collided in NOLA for the yearly festival that rakes in racks on racks on racks for the city.

The highlight of the weekend was definitely the Hennessy V.S and Essence Birthday Celebration for Kevin Hart. The funny man, who also performed at the Superdome during the festival, showed that he is truly on the cusp of the A-list. The ‘Think Like A Man’ star had everyone from Oscar winner Denzel Washington to Trey Songz singing his praises at the Saint Hotel in New Orleans, while ‘Single Ladies’ LisaRaye and Denise Vasi took over the stage for an in-prompt dance session with DJ D-Nice.

Other celebrities in the house included Anthony Mackie, The Cast Of Single Ladies,  Keisha Knight Pulliam, Michael Ealy, Shaunie O’Neil and many more.

The Essence Luxe Lounge was another popular destination during the festival.  Brands like Smart Water and Hennessy were able to rub elbows with some of black Hollywood’s A-list celebrities. Tisha Campbell was spotted getting her hair touched up at the lounge while actress and singer Vanessa Williams and legendary actress Ruby Dee took a moment to rest on the plush couches in the lounge.

After a long night of partying, there’s nothing like a prime brunch to soothe your hangover. Hennessy’s “Very Special Brunch” on Saturday, provided just the remedy. Eric Benet, Marsha Ambrosius, Letoya Luckett, Bridget Kelly, Prince’s DJ, DJ Rashida and more were in the house for the fabulous brunch that included specially made Hennessy cocktails.

The crowd never sat down as DJ D-Nice turned a day brunch into a straight party and had everyone on their feet. Check out a few more photos from the 2012 Essence Music Festival in New Orleans.