Mary J. Blige recently found herself included in the highly anticipated lineup for the 2024 Lovers & Friends festival in Las Vegas, set to take place on May 4. However, the acclaimed singer clarified on Instagram that her appearance was a mistake, expressing gratitude for the support from fans but citing prior commitments to her Strength of a Woman Summit just one week later.
In an Instagram Story, Blige stated, “I am beyond humbled by the response from all of you about the announcement of me on Lovers & Friends Festival. Unfortunately, my inclusion was an error as I will be busy in preparation for my Strength of a Woman Summit just one week later! I have the greatest fans in the world and can’t wait to see you in New York in a few short months!”
Blige’s Strength of a Woman Summit, for which she is in active preparation, is a significant event that serves as a testament to her commitment to empowering women. Although the exact dates and lineup for this year’s summit are yet to be announced, last year’s edition featured notable artists such as Ms. Lauryn Hill, Summer Walker, Lucky Daye, Coco Jones, and Muni Long.
In a surprising turn, rapper Mase also expressed a desire to be removed from the Lovers & Friends festival lineup in the comments section of the festival’s Instagram announcement post. No explanation was provided for his initial inclusion.
The festival, scheduled to be held at the Las Vegas Festival Grounds on May 4, boasts an impressive lineup featuring Janet Jackson, Usher, Backstreet Boys, Snoop Dogg, Gwen Stefani, Alicia Keys, Nelly Furtado, Nas, Ludacris, Ciara, Nelly, and more. Usher and Lil Wayne are set to deliver performances of their classic albums, Confessions and Tha Carter III, respectively.