Jill Scott has a great eye for style, including clothing and hair styles, and she's not afraid to try new things.
Speaking of fashion and being comfortable in her skin, Jill Scott admitted that she's actually been inspired by the movie Mahogany, which starred Diana Ross, and the fashion displayed.
"Who has impacted my style? It's been a lot of things. Mahogany for one. I've really been enjoying watching the fashion of it," Jill Scott shared during an interview at the Essence Festival over the weekend.
Going on to discuss hair, Jill Scott said she prefers shapes and designs.
"I want shapes and designs rather than a quote on quote hairstyle. I just think that fashion is about enjoying yourself and feeling comfortable in your skin."
The Essence Festival is the perfect platform for many of today’s top entertainers to showcase their talent and be inspired by some of music’s legendary icons. This year, soulful songstress Jill Scott was moved by Diana Ross’ performance at the festival and immediately thought back to her childhood memories of watching Mahogany. She took a moment during her own set to pay homage to both in an unforgettable way.
Jill Scott has been gracing stages all over the world with her smooth voice and powerful lyrics since she exploded onto the scene nearly two decades ago. With six albums under her belt, she continues to captivate audiences with her dynamic performances that evoke emotion from every corner of the room. At this year’s Essence Festival, it wasn’t just fans getting emotional; even Miss Scott herself found inspiration in another one of R&B’s greats – Diana Ross.
Diana Ross mesmerized crowds as part of her In The Name Of Love Tour when she stepped on stage at New Orleans’ Mercedes-Benz Superdome for the annual event. It was then that Jill Scott realized why so much of what we know about black girl magic comes from films like Mahogany starring Ms. Ross. As such, she decided to honor them both through a special tribute at her own show later that evening – something no fan will ever forget!
Jill Scott’s Performance At The Essence Festival
At the Essence Festival, Jill Scott gave an inspiring performance that paid homage to Diana Ross and her iconic 1975 movie Mahogany. The energy in the air was palpable as soon as she hit the stage – a combination of admiration, nostalgia, and excitement. She opened with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” one of Ross’ most beloved hits from Mahogany.
The audience sang along with every word, cheering her on throughout the song. Not only did it bring back memories for many attendees who remembered seeing Ross perform this classic track; but it also demonstrated how much respect Scott had for one of music’s greatest icons. Her rendition perfectly captured both the spirit and sound of the original version while adding her own unique flair.
Scott followed up this powerful opener by performing other R&B classics such as “Love Hangover” and “Endless Love” which got everyone out of their seats dancing and singing alongside her. It was clear that she wanted to share not just music but also joy during her set at the festival—and fans responded with enthusiasm!
Influence Of Diana Ross And Mahogany On Jill Scott’s Performance
It was obvious that Diana Ross and the movie Mahogany had a strong influence on Jill Scott’s performance at the Essence Festival. From her choice of songs to her powerful delivery, she paid homage to both in a way that made it clear how much respect she held for them.
The music from Mahogany is timeless—even more than 40 years after its release. This fact wasn’t lost on Scott as she powerfully sang each song with conviction and feeling. She further demonstrated her admiration for Ross by adding some of her own unique flourishes to the classics, making sure not to overshadow the original versions but instead pay tribute to their greatness.
Scott wanted everyone who attended the festival to feel inspired and uplifted, which is why she chose these specific songs and delivered such an electrifying performance. By honoring one of music’s greatest icons while also giving fans something new and exciting, Scott made this set unforgettable.
Conclusion
The influence of Diana Ross and Mahogany on Jill Scott’s performance at the Essence Festival was powerful. Not only did she channel their energy and style, but it seemed that a part of them had taken up residence in her during her time onstage. She moved with grace, performed with passion, and sang with clarity – all things which have been trademarks of those two legendary performers for decades.
Jill Scott is an incredible artist who has been able to take inspiration from some of the greatest names in music history and make it her own. Her tribute to Diana Ross and Mahogany was a beautiful reminder of why they are so loved by fans around the world. It felt like they were watching over us as we watched Jill perform, reminding us that no matter what happens, great music will always be remembered and appreciated.
We thank Jill Scott for taking us back in time with her amazing performance at the Essence Festival; we’ll never forget how inspired we were by both Diana Ross’ and Mahogany’s impact on her set!