Rihanna Rocks Essence Festival Stage

Rihanna Rocks Essence Festival Stage

Opting to work on Independence Day, Rihanna took the stage to perform at the Louisiana Superdome during the 2008 Essence Music Festival on Friday (July 4).

The New Orleans based festival, which kicked off yesterday and runs until Sunday, "celebrates black music and culture and moved to Houston in 2006 after Hurricane Katrina smashed New Orleans. It returned in 2007, and organizers say Essence is now re-establishing its place in the city."

According to AP reports, "an estimated 200,000 people attended the festival last year, supplying a needed injection of business into the city's hurricane-hammered tourism industry."

"The festival is so special to New Orleans," said Irma Thomas, a resident who's still struggling to rebuild her home from Katrina-related damages.

Meanwhile, the festival will be honoring Patti LaBelle tonight - as the soul diva will enjoy "performances by two original members of LaBelle — Sarah Dash and Nona Hendryx — as well as performances by Chaka Khan, Angie Stone, Ledisi, Chrisette Michele, Ruby Amanfu and Thomas."

Enjoy the pictures of Rihanna at the 2008 Essence Music Festival (July 4).