Reviews from Essence aren't good at all. "D'Angelo disappoints" It did lack.

These new artists (including him) need to learn that you have to come out with a BANG at the start of your introduction.His stage presence lacks to me. His band is good, but they need to polish themselves up more if they want to play to stadium like venues.

When I re-examine the performance I don't think he was ready for a crowd like Essence. Not this soon.