VISION, VOICE, VARION....."REMEMBERING DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR"

HONORING "THE DREAMER"

(Atlanta, GA.)--The Observance of "The Dreamer's" Birthday is almost in the history books,  but first Varion Walton gives us a look back at the week the nation called "King Holiday!"

NEW MUSIC: "GAME CHANGER"-JOHNNY GILL

(Chattanooga, TN.)--After 31 years in the business, Johnny Gill is stronger than ever. Time has had little effect on the vocals. Johnny Gill's sultry; smooth, unique sound is sure to satisfy. I enjoyed our brief "meet and greet" during Johnny's exclusive "listening party" at the Bessie Cultural Center in Chattanooga, Tennessee recently. "I couldn't ask for a more intimate, beautiful venue to bring my new music to the people." I love Tennessee and this museum is a beautiful commitment in keeping R&B alive." I've been here before and once again, the pleasure is all mine. 

Check out Johnny Gill's new CD, "GAME CHANGER” available NOW on I-Tunes.

VARION'S VIEW: "Beyond the Lights" - Must See!

NEW AT THE MOVIES

It is entertaining, inspiring and a sobering reminder--"all that glitters ain't gold!"  Beyond the Lights is story of Noni, the music industry's latest "it girl!" I thought the name Noni was no coincidence. The movie had not so subtle hints of another famous sex symbol, "Norma Jean."Though the storyline comes up short I really like this movie because it is "topical and timely" for so many women out there willing to do anything for their 15 minutes of fame.

"Beyond the Lights" is a love story and a poignant glimpse of what really happens when you "chase your dreams and lose yourself in the process." I was especially happy to see a seasoned veteran like Danny Glover influence newcomers like Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Nate Parker. I also loved the cameos from everyone including Chaka Khan and BET's Debra Lee.  See this film this weekend family; you'll be glad you did!

"HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS" WITH ANTHONY HAMILTON

PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!

(CHATTANOOGA, TN.)--HOW'S THIS FOR A "STOCKING STUFFER?" HamFamily get ready, VISION/VOICE/VARON has had the privilege of listening to a couple of singles on Anthony Hamilton's upcoming Christmas CD and let's just say the "holidays won't be the same without this one under the tree!" Once again Super Producer-Kevin Wooten (WoodaWorx) and Anthony Hamilton team up for what's sure to include some hot, new "Christmas Classics". Spread the word; tell a Friend "Home For the Holidays" with Anthony Hamilton is sure to "make the season bright!" PRE-ORDER YOUR COPY TODAY!  

Tank "Flying Solo" During 20th Essence Music Fest

 "YOU'RE MY STAR" SINGER-TANK/ ESSENCE  FEST RECAP

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.) -- He's "Stronger" and these days he's flying solo.  During the recent 20th Annual Essence Music Festival, TGT member Tank decided it was time to hit the main stage without his partners in crime. Singers Tyrese and Ginuwine were noticably absent as the well dressed crooner talked with the members of the press backstage about performing at one of the most anticipated events of the year.  CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO as Tank talks about the success of his new CD "Stronger" and his rising popularity as a sex symbol.

LEDISI -ESSENCE 2014

PHOTO CREDIT: VISION/VOICE/VARION

LEDISI:  "NATURAL WOMAN"/ ESSENCE FEST RECAP

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.)--Give her a cap and gown because Ledisi has finally "graduated!" After many years of being hidden in the smaller, yet intimate Super Lounge, this year Ledisi got an opportunity to spread her wings.  The award winning singer joined the ranks of other big named acts like Prince, Lionel Richie, Charlie Wilson on the main stage in the covenant Super Lounge.  PRESS PLAY and watch Ledisi as she talks with journalists from around the country about what it is like to work the main stage of the Super Dome as a black woman with natural hair wearing 6 inch stiletto heels.  Don't worry Ledisi, you have more than earned every "delicious moment!"   Enjoyed!

ESSENCE: JILL SCOTT'S GOLDEN MOMENT

"GOLDEN"AND BLESSED/ESSENCE FESTIVAL RECAP

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.)--MINUTES FROM THE STAGE: Grammy Award winning actress and singer Jill Scott truly has a "golden" moment following her explosive performance at The 2014 Essence Music Festival.  Brent Rich,  Scott's self-professed "biggest fan" got an opportunity to touch the singer's heart backstage with a very special presentation.  2014 has truly been a banner year for Jill who has spent the better part of the year really stretching her acting pipes.  I can't wait to see her role in the upcoming biography detailing the "rise and fall" of legendary singer  James Brown in "Get On Up." PRESS PLAY and experience a rare, private moment between fan and  R&B "super star!"

ERYKAH BADU- Essence 2014

"BEST OF BADU"/  ESSENCE FEST RECAP

(NEW ORLEANS, LA.)--Through a series of reports, VISION/VOICE/VARION gives you a SECOND LOOK at some of the "hits and misses" during the 20th Annual Essence Music Festival.  Check out Eryka Badu as she teaches other about 'discovering something bigger than yourself."  Though her approach is often considered radical almost everyone agrees, ultimately Badu is true to her craft and the atristry we call pop culture.

ADIA: RAGS TO RICHES

R&B GOSPEL ARTIST ADIA SET TO RELEASE DEBUT ALBUM

“BEHIND ENEMY LINES” JULY 29; FEATURES JESSICA REEDY,

ERIC DAWKINS, GEMSTONES & MORE

NEW SINGLE “RAGS TO RICHES” AVAILABLE ON ITUNES TODAY!

(Atlanta, GA.)--Get ready to welcome a new voice within R&B Gospel! Xist Music is proud to announce the release of their first female artist Adia as she gears up for the release of her debut album, Behind Enemy Lines, which will hit stores July 29th.  Bringing a new vibe to the genre, the album is produced by Fred “Blaze” Crawford (Deitrick Haddon, Day 26, Dave Hollister, Ramsey Lewis), and gives a dynamic one-two-punch that is a treasure trove of songs that are not only message-driven but artistic, engaging, and entertaining. Behind Enemy Lines features appearances by Jessica Reedy, Eric Dawkins, Sean Simmonds and Gemstones. 

The first single, “Rags to Riches” featuring Sean Simmonds, is available on iTunes today (and has been well received among her fans as well as industry insiders.  The single highlights the realities of life, and how keeping the faith can carry one through.  The video, which co-stars Willie Taylor of Day 26, touches on topics of suicide, teen peer pressure, and verbal/physical abusive relationships (CLICK HERE).

Ready to share all of her inspirations, experiences and every tiny step of her journey with listeners, Adia wants her music to show people what real life looks like, how real faith works and how music -- in its most real and honest form -- can help to lighten loads and transform lives.

“I am so excited to share this project with the world,” says Adia. “I believe that my generation will appreciate the transparency of "Behind Enemy Lines" and be able to receive and witness the Love of Jesus in a way that is relevant to them.”

A young budding voice in the world of Gospel music, Adia was featured on the lead single “Incomplete”  from the movie soundtrack, “A Beautiful Soul,” which was written by and starred Grammy nominated Gospel singer and TV personality Deitrick Haddon. The soundtrack hit #10 on the Billboard Gospel Charts. 

Adia will be hitting the road this summer making appearances at various concerts, tours and festivals. For more information on Adia log onto www.adiadaily.com and follow her on social media at @adiasings.

"LUPITA, LUPITA!" - It Certainly Has Been Your Year!

( New York, New York)--It's been a staple in households for nearly two decades and this year People Magazine got it right.  Lupita Nyong'o is People Magazine's "Most Beautiful" woman of 2014.  This young woman's performance in "12 Years a Slave" gave me pause and I'm not alone.   This year she picked up the covenant Oscar award for "best supporting" actress in a 12 Years A Slave.

For nearly nine months Lupita has turned heads on the red carpet with her radiant skin and golden smile.  What's so unique about this raving beauty is she looks like no one else in Tinseltown.  She's rocking couture "her way;" free of weaves and relaxers.  She is naturally beautiful!

What a year for a young woman who's work ethic and quite demeanor speaks loudly enough for her. We could all learn a thing or two from "People Magazine's Most Beautiful!"  She is one receipt that's truly beautiful inside and out.