Matthew Knowles Helps Keep Music Fest in Houston

[Conspiracy]

Despite some of the reported disarray at last year's Essence Music Festival, the city of Houston is looking for another chance to host it in 2007 – this time, employing one of their most powerful tools to back them up – Matthew Knowles.

Houston officials are convinced that the powerful music exec - who is also Beyoncé's father - will have a massive influence on the decision.

The Essence Music Festival has always brought its devoted fans, food and festivities to New Orleans every year since its inception, but the city was unable to celebrate because of Hurricane Katrina's destruction. Officials in New Orleans say they are prepared to host next year's event, reports the Houston Chronicle.

Though some complained about the festivals location this year, because of transportation problems, Houston's officials have already began planning improvements on the transportation and venues.

An Essence spokeswoman on Monday did confirm to the newspaper that the group was negotiating with Houston and New Orleans. Spokeswoman Dana Baxter said Essence officials expected to make a decision within the next few weeks.

Matthew Knowles responded to the Chronicle by stating in an email, "All throughout the career of Destiny's Child and Kelly, Beyoncé and Michelle's career, they've been major Ambassadors of Houston throughout the world. We are in discussion with Essence for Beyoncé on the 2007 tour. We also are in the process of routing Beyoncé's world tour for 2007. It would be great if she could do both in her hometown of Houston. Where the Essence festival lands next year is a discussion for Essence and Houston's City Government."