VH1 Divas to feature Kelly Clarkson, Mary J. Blige and more

VH1 Divas returns this December, with an all-star cast that features Mary J. Blige, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, Jill Scott, Florence + The Machine and Jessie J.

This year, the series will pay tribute to the cities where soul gave birth to music's most powerful classics and inspired today's divas.

"VH1 Divas Celebrate Soul" will bring together some of the best singers across the globe, men and women alike, to honor the soulful cities that inspired these divas and their art. The cities honored include Chicago, Detroit, London, Memphis and Philadelphia.

Accompanied by one of the most exciting groups of modern soul, The Roots, with Questlove as musical director, each diva will pay tribute through not only their own soul-inspired songs, but some of the greatest classics that have shaped a genre.

"This year's telecast will showcase the vast impact soul music has had on the 21st century's music and pop culture landscape as our talented and diverse lineup will attest," says VH1’s Lee Rolontz. "This year's 'Divas' offers a modern twist on soul music, all while tipping its hat to the legacy of key cities that created this musical heritage."

As in previous years, this edition of "VH1 Divas" will benefit VH1 Save The Music Foundation and its programs to restore music education in public schools. For more information, visit www.vh1savethemusic.org

Additional performers, presenters and special guests will be announced as they are confirmed.

"VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul" happens at New York City's Hammerstein Ballroom and premieres Monday, December 19 at 9 PM ET/PT on VH1.