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Lauryn Hill Played to a Near-Empty Stadium Until 3:37 A.M. at Essence Festival — and Fans Are Now Coming to Her Defense

Lauryn Hill performed to a near-empty Superdome in New Orleans at almost 4 a.m. local time during the 2025 Essence Festival after the day’s lineup got behind schedule. The singer was seen bantering with the small crowd and even taking requests.

Lauryn Hill closed out her set at the 2025 Essence Festival of Culture to a near-empty stadium after taking the stage hours later than expected. A number of fans took to social media to defend the “Doo-Wop (That Thing)” singer, arguing that she was not at fault for the late start time. Stereogum additionally reported that Hill was added to an already packed lineup, which contributed to the late start.

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