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The inaugural Soulfest kicked off last year, with 9000-odd music lovers flocking to Western Springs to soak up the vibes of D’Angelo, Common and Mos Def. The event even managed to claimed the title of the country’s biggest ever concert under the wide spread banner of neo soul, funk, jazz and hip hop.

After stopping by Sydney and Melbourne, the Soulfest road show will once again make its return to Auckland, and just in time to round out Labour Weekend. Over 20 live acts and DJs will feature throughout the 10-hour day across two main stages.

Leading the first line-up announcement is the queen of hip hop and soul, Mary J. Blige. In her longstanding career, the performer has released 12 studio albums, which have collectively sold upwards of 50 million copies worldwide. Her second album, My Life, is regularly considered among the greatest albums ever recorded.

Blige will be joined by nine-time Grammy nominee Charlie Wilson, iconic hip hop trio De La Soul, Brooklyn rapper Talib Kweli, Detroit soul singer Dwele, R&B duo Floetry, neo-soul singer-songwriter Eric Benet, Grammy Award-winning singer/model/actress Jill Scott, Los Angeles R&B artist Jhené Aiko, jazz saxophonist Kamasi Washington and soul crooner BJ The Chicago Kid.