On July 7, 2012, Mary J. Blige headlined the Essence Music Festival in New Orleans, during a brief interview with Rolling Stone she announced an upcoming 20 date summer tour with singer D'Angelo. Blige stated: "I felt like it would be refreshing and fun for people to see him and Mary J. Blige on the road together."[2]
Tickets for four shows went on sale a few days after.[3] During a four night stint at Caesars in Atlantic City (June 29, 30 & July 3, 4), Blige gave fans a peek of what was to come on the tour.[4]
The tour will feature supporting act Melanie Fiona, and include Starshell appearing only at select cities. The Liberation Tour will extend its run in the summer of 2013 with R&B singer Bridget Kelly opening for D'Angelo and Blige.[5] During the tour Vibe news announced a VIP contest giveaway to win two pair of tickets to any city of choice to see the tour.[6] During the tour, VIP Nation also offered fans VIP Packages for the tour.[7]