R&B diva Beyonce honored the late Michael Jackson at the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans over the weekend, performing a special version of her song “Halo” for the King of Pop.

Before breaking into her tribute song, Bee played a home video of herself as an excited 5-year-old getting ready to attend her first MJ concert.

“That night I saw my hero perform… when I saw Michael Jackson hit the stage, that’s when I decided who I wanted to be,” Beyonce told the crowd as the video played.

The lineup has been announced for the 2009 Essence Music Festival. Look for stars like Beyonce, Robin Thicke, Lionel Richie, and John Legend are just a few of the artists who have now been confirmed for this year’s festival, which will take place in New Orleans July 3-5.

The Essence Music Festival returns to New Orleans July 3, 4 and 5, 2009 with Sasha Fierce herself, Beyoncé, headlining a star-studded lineup of performers.

In celebration of the event’s 15th anniversary, the festival will offer a 15% discount on select tickets from Dec. 1, 2008 through Jan. 31, 2009.

Visit The Festival’s Official Website For More Information