Happy Holiday!

(December 25, 2013)--It is my favorite time of the year.  The Christmas holiday is when we all stop and reflect on the many blessings in our lives.  As I pause to think, I am reminded of the reason for this season.  2013 has been tremendous, here's hoping 2014 is even better.  Stay connected to VISION/VOICE/VARION for more of what you love 24/7.  Big news is on the way family.  We're talking huge.  Stay close.

Back Stage With Tamar Braxton

(Mobile, AL.)--Before you check out tonight's encore of The Braxton's Family Values, first check out Varion's EXCLUSIVE interview with Tamar.  The new season of #BFV is truly "must see TV!"  Don't miss it.

BIRMINGHAM'S OWN HALO WHEELER GEARING UP FOR A "CLASSIC PERFORMANCE!"

BEFORE THE KICKOFF, FIRST GET IN A LITTLE MUSIC "THERAPY" WITH HALO!

(BIRMINGHAM, AL.)--It is a longstanding tradition, the 72nd Annual State Farm Magic City Classic.  For nearly a century the last Saturday in October has always been reserved for bragging rights between two great Alabama institutions.  Alabama State University and Alabama A&M University will square off at Legion Field in Birmingham this weekend for bragging rights as the best in the SWAC division.  Before the kickoff, first check out what the City of Birmingham is hoping will become a new tradition in one of the most anticipated events of the year.

It's only befitting one of the largest radio stations in the Southeast should tap into the rising, successful career of one of their own.  16 year old Kayla "Halo" Wheeler is a product of The Magic City and this weekend she is gearing up for what  promises to be a "classic performance" at Legion Field.

Join Halo as she performs LIVE at the 98.7 KISS FM Stage Saturday, October 26th.  Halo is expected to play several song from her brand new CD "THIS IS WHO I AM" before the first snap at 11am. Can't wait until Saturday, you don't have to.  KISS-FM has been playing Halo's "Therapy" and "Gone" since the CD was released in August.  Call in and request her music, trust me you'll be impressed.

The 72nd State Farm Magic City Classic promises to be the biggest and best year yet.  The addition of one of "Birmingham's" darling Halo Wheeler is certainly an incredible way of putting the "magic" into this Classic weekend.   Halo Wheeler, "Harmoniously and lyrically original!"

For more information on Halo Wheeler--visit her official website:  www.halowheeler.com.

Chrisette Michele Is "Better," Thank You!

Photo Credit:  Elpwe Ray of  "E Photo"

AFTER A BRIEF HIATUS, CHRISETTE MICHELE EMERGES "BETTER"

(New Orleans, LA.)--She’s no stranger to our VISION/VOICE/VARION viewers.  For years we have brought you the many hairstyles, videos and fashion style transformations of this Grammy Award winning artist.  After so many songs about relationships and heartbreak, Chrisette Michele is singing a new tune. In fact, Chrisette will tell you "she's BETTER, thank you!" Check out her brand new look, new vegan lifestyle and new tour. We got a chance to chat with Chrisette briefly during her performance during Essence Music Festival 2013 in New Orleans.   Chrisette Michele is currently on tour.  Find out when she is coming near you by visiting her official website.  http://www.thisischrisettemichele.com/

VISION/VOICE/VARION---Stellar Awards with Mary, Mary

(Nashville, TN.)--They were born to sing, but what's the one thing that stopped the Grammy Award winning group Mary, Mary in their tracks? Host the 2013 Stellar Awards LIVE! Minutes after leaving the stage the ladies were talking and only to VISION/VOICE/VARION! Photo/Video Credit: Elpwe Ray of "E-Photo"

BAYFEST PERFORMANCE BECOMES A FAMILY AFFAIR FOR NASHVILLE'S "K-ROB"

   The Next Generational Isley

Opens for the Legendary Isley Brothers at BayFest 2013

BAYFEST PROFILE

                                                                                                      

Nashville, Tenn.-International Recording Artist K-Rob will be one of several artists opening for his uncles the Isley Brothers at BayFest 2013, the largest Music Festival in Alabama.

 As the nephew of Rudolph Isley of the legendary Isley Brothers, Urban/R&B Artist K-Rob continues to garner new fans and support for his energetic, edgy and soulful sound. This will be K-Rob’s third year performing at BayFest in Mobile. The singer/songwriter will perform many familiar hits, in addition to his music from his freshman CD and his most recent EP featuring, “So Addictive.”

“My ambition has always been to ultimately create a new joint that would connect with music lovers around the world,” K-Rob said. “I especially look forward to being one of the opening acts for my uncles, the Isley Brothers, and I can’t wait to share my music with the wonderful and supportive audience in Mobile.”

K-Rob is also pleased to announce the video debut of his single,” So Addictive,” which was directed and produced by Ron White of Atlanta, Ga. White is also a native of Mobile.

            K-Rob emerged on the music scene in 2004 and introduced his first, self-entitled CD,        “K-Rob,” which garnered placement on Pandora, Jango.com, INDIE 104 and IRADIOLA. The “raves” continued with airplay on major FM radio stations such as 92.1, WQQK, Nashville, Tenn., Power 94.3, WJTT, Chattanooga, Tenn.; and the nationally syndicated, The Michael Baisden Show, and various radio stations throughout the U.K., France and Japan.

            K-Rob’s first CD features songs such as “2Nite,” “Again (Like the First Time),” a Stevie Wonder rendition, “Golden Lady” and the sensual club-banger, “The Velvet Room.” He remains passionate about his work that’s inspired by the Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway, Earth, Wind and Fire, and Marvin Gaye. His vocal style has been compared to Howard Hewitt, Joe and Maxwell. Vocally, K-Rob’s falsetto notes remind you of a soft and sexy romance.

           

"So Addictive" was penned by a talented, up and coming singer/songwriter based out of Atlanta, LOK3Y, whose forte' is writing deeply soulful records with "tinges" of gospel, R&B and international "feels." “The entire making of “So Addictive” was a family affair,” K-Rob said. Like his first project, K-Rob continued the prolific partnership with long time friend and super producer, Angelo “Lo” Ray, Father of Angelo Ray, Jr. aka LOK3Y. “Angelo and I wanted to continue “moving the needle” with hot records that would also resonate internationally.

 

Photo Credit: "E-Photo"

Our creative success continues to be possible with our great team work and knowledge of one another,” K-Rob said. Angelo’s production credits include working with chart topping artists such as:    

   Kevon Edmonds, “24/7-"Gold status, ” The House The Dog Built,” performed by JiBri and co-produced by the legendary, Nile Rodgers; Productions featuring David Banner & JadaKiss; Adina Howard “Nasty Grind,” Jade’s “Mind, Body & Soul”-Gold status.

            K-Rob has received great reviews about his music and performances within the U.S. and internationally. As K-Rob continues to work on his Sophomore Project, he focuses on his musical gift and all who have inspired him to do everything with much determination, hard work and style. For more information, call (251) 583-5590 or visit http://www.k-robmusic.com/.

"ALL THINGS BAYFEST"--GRAMMY NOMINATED SINGER TAMIA!

(MOBILE, AL.)---Introducing the beautiful and talented Tamia!  The first night of the 19th Annual Bayfest Music Festival was hot in more ways than one with the performance of this Grammy nominated artist.  Just let me say her husband, NBA Superstar Grant Hill is no slouch either.  It was great witnessing them supporting each, truly embracing what can only be called a "beautiful life!"

Tamia takes more than a "few minutes" backstage greeting, smiling and being incredibly warm with each and every fan who was granted access for a during her performance at Bayfest 2013.  Great show from this very determined wife, mother and award winning artist!  Way to go lady in "balancing a beautiful life and truly having it all!"






Stay connected with our EXCLUSIVE, "ALL ACCESS" BACKSTAGE COVERAGE on www.facebook.com/vwnetwork

BAYFEST 2013-HOTELS READY TO WELCOME MUSIC LOVERS!

ALL THINGS BAYFEST:


(Mobile, AL) --It is one of Alabama's most successful music festival, plus a financial shot in the arm for Mobile's local economy. Despite early reports of a "washout," Bayfest will go on and local hotels, including the Admiral Semmes Hotel are ready for your reservations.  http://www.admiralsemmeshotel.com

ANTHONY HAMILTON, ZAC BROWN BAND, T.I., TAMAR BRAXTON--BAYFEST 2013 IS SIZZLING!

(MOBILE, AL)---OCTOBER IS SIZZLING!  In just 3 days more than 150-thousand screaming music lovers will descend on Downtown Mobile.  BEFORE THE FIRST NOTE IS PLAYED,  Varion Walton is giving you a SECOND LOOK at 'All Things Bayfest!'  Executive Director Shana Jordan answers all of your questions about who's coming, if you can bring chairs and WHERE you can still the HOTTEST TICKET in town.  VISION/VOICE/VARION....."everyday, everywhere!"

DEQN SUE'S "ZEITGEIST" DEPICTS "LIFE THROUGH SONG!"

VISION/VOICE/VARION EXCLUSIVE

Check Out This Video Moments Following The CD Release of "ZEITGEIST!"

(Huntsville, AL)--Music lovers get ready, there's a young, eclectic, blue haired beauty who is ready to take the music industry by storm!  Deqn Sue is a "single woman on a single mission" to raise the consciousness of her generation through song.   Check out this video of the new Woodaworx Recording artist only minutes following the release of her brand new CD "Zeitgeist!" Varion Walton chats with Deqn on the red carpet about the inspiration behind this new project.

For more information on how you can get your copy of "ZEITGEIST," visit www.deqnsue.com and 

https://www.facebook.com/deqnsue?fref=ts

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yt-UnWqhFW0

VISION/VOICE/VARION AND "ALL THINGS BAYFEST!"

"FOLLOW" AND WIN!   

(Mobile, AL.)---Spread the word, tell a friend--Varion Walton is gearing up for another year of "ALL THINGS BAYFEST" and with a line-up that includes The Zac Brown Band, Tamia, Hunter Hayes, The Isley Brothers, T.I., Anthony Hamilton and Tamar Braxton--it's simply GOING TO BE "OFF THE METER!"

Take a minute to watch Varion's Bayfest organizers included in this blog, but also take a minute to
REGISTER & "FOLLOW" FOR EXCLUSIVE GIVEAWAYS!  You have to "FOLLOW" to WIN! Don't miss out, sign up to "FOLLOW" this page today!

DEQN SUE: ALABAMA MUSIC MAKER KELVIN WOOTEN'S LATEST RISING STAR!

ALL NEW-HAPPENING THIS SUNDAY!     

 

Woodaworx/The Pink Doughnut Shop Recording Artist Deqn Sue

                                         Deqn Sue's Official Video --"Dream Killer"

(Huntsville, AL.)--Alabama Music Maker Kelvin Wooten unleashes "Zeitgeist," the first Pop/Funk album recorded under his own label.  This weekend the Grammy nominated producer will showcase his latest protege' Deqn Sue under The Woodaworx/The Pink Doughnut Shop labels.

Wooten and his entire band will join Deqn for the official  CD RELEASE and LISTENING PARTY for "Zeitgeist."  Deqn Sue is expected to perform several singles from her new album LIVE tomorrow, September 22nd at The Demi Howell Salon in Huntsville, AL.

Based out of Los Angeles,  Deqn is described as eclectic, unique, soulful with an "alternative twist." She met Wooten and began recording while attending Oakwood University in Huntsville, Alabama. Some of her early musical influences include Prince, Sly and The Family Stone. Her unique style has earned comparisons to Macy Gray,  Dionne Farris and Fefe Dobson.

Though she's the first Pop artist signed under Wooten's Woodawox label,  Deqn is no stranger to the business.  In fact, you could say it is in her DNA.  She is apart of a legendary family with strong ties to Hollywood.  Her mother performed in several Janet Jackson videos as a principal dancer in the late 80s.  Her father played the role of Sqt. Deacon "Deke" Kay in the famed 1970's television series "SWAT," thus her name "Deqn Sue!"

If Wooten's name sounds familiar, it should.  Kelvin Wooten is the same North Alabama musician credited with producing Grammy nominated hits for  R&B Sensation Anthony Hamilton, Jill Scott Raphel Saadiq, just to name a few. Wooten is set to strengthen up his influence on the national music scene with the release of this latest project.

To learn more about Deqn Sue, visit and "LIKE" her Facebook page at www.facebook.com/deqnsue

18 DAYS AND COUNTING! BAYFEST WEEKEND PASSES ON SALE NOW!

STAY CONNECTED FOR TICKET GIVEAWAYS

(MOBILE, AL)--VISION/VOICE/VARION is your headquarter for "all things Bayfest!" This year the VVV crew is stepping it up, bringing you even more exclusive interviews, cool giveaways and all of the music you can handle.

THIS JUST IN: K-Rob, a Bayfest favorite is performing again, Sunday, October 6th.  But this time, Vision/Voice/Varion has learned K-Rob is opening act for his legendary uncle, Ron Isley and The Isley Brothers.  That's just a sample of some of the exciting entertainment news you can expect over the next two weeks. Varion Walton and her crew are gearing up to cover Bayfest 2013 from the opening ceremonies to the final closing song.

2013 BayFest Performer, K-ROB  Photo Coutesy: E-Photo

Bayfest's line-up for 2013 is second to none! The Zac Brown Band, Anthony Hamilton, Tamia, Hunter Hays, Tamar Braxton, R. Kelly and many more.  125 national and local acts performing on 9 different stages in Downtown Mobile.  

CHECK OUT THIS VIDEO as Varion Walton talks with Shana Jordan, Executive Director of Bayfest about this year's line-up and how Alabama's Largest Music Festival continues to "the destination" for the first weekend in October.

Organizers expect more than 250-thousand screaming music fans looking for the hottest stars in country, R&B, Rap, Hip Hop and Rock and Roll. This year there's something to satisfy even the most discriminating music critic. Spread the word, tell a friend, "Bayfest 2013 is simply going to be epic!"

STAY CONNECTED TO VISION/VOICE/VARION FOR EXCITING BAYFEST TRIVA AND GIVEAWAYS!                           
                                                                  

CHECK OUT THE COMPLETE LINE-UP, PLUS GET YOUR WEEKEND PASSES NOW: VISIT: www.bayfest.com

HALO WHEELER's EXCLUSIVE PERFORMANCE ON THE 98.7 KISS FM STAGE

                             
(BIRMINGHAM, AL.)--Folks attending the annual Tom Joyner, "Take A Loved One To The Doctor Day" got a little something extra to help take the "pain away!" Some might even say Halo Wheeler's music is just what "the doctor ordered" when it comes to being empowered and inspired about our youth. Check out this young Birmingham native as she takes center stage for an EXCLUSIVE performance on the 98.7 KISS FM stage.

Halo Wheeler,  a 15-year old Shades Valley High School sophomore sang more than four singles from her brand new CD "This Is Who I Am!"  HALO, an acronym for "Harmoniously and Lyrically Original" wrote nine of the ten tracks on the debut CD when she was only 14.

"This Is Who I Am" became one of the most anticipated CD releases of the summer after it started getting airplay on 98.7 KISS-FM weeks before the August 11th release.  KISS-FM's Chris Coleman started putting HALO's music in heavy rotation after he heard "GONE," the young artist first single written during Halo's freshmen year in high school.  The veteran DJ was immediately sold on "The Halo Experience."  He immediately followed up the first single with "Therapy," an up-tempo single on the album that's earning comparisons to Chrisette Michele and Inda Arie.

For nearly a decade, Tom Joyner and his sister stations around the country have teamed up to help folks living in disadvantaged communities receive free health screening and medical exams.  Linn Park served as a beautiful backdrop for some 300 Central Alabama residents who patted their feet and rolled up their sleeves as they listened to the sultry, soulful sounds of Halo Wheeler while getting their blood pressured checked.

For more information and to purchase "THIS IS WHO I AM," visit HALO'S website www.halowheeler.com.   You can also check her out on FACE BOOK at www.facebook.com/halowheelermusic

Halo Wheeler's "THIS IS WHO I AM" is also available on I-TUNES.

TOM JOYNER'S "PARTY WITH A PURPOSE" INCLUDES FUN AND FITNESS!

TAKE A LOVED ONE TO THE DOCTOR DAY!

(BIRMINGHAM, AL)   Tom Joyner, Sybil Wilkes and J. Anthony Brown, they are as much apart of our morning as packing a lunch and kissing our children off to school.  Everyday we count on a few laughs from The Tom Joyner Morning Show, but tomorrow Tom and the gang will be "all talk" about a very serious subject, your health!   

It's a sobering fact; African Americans are more likely to die of obesity, diabetes, hypertension and cancer.  For nearly a decade, the nationally syndicated talk show host has "championed the cause" by raising the awareness of some of the most polarizing diseases crippling our communities. 

Join The Tom Joyner Morning Show as they team up with Birmingham's 98.7KISS FM. Their mission includes tackling the health issues in the black community head on. This "party with a purpose" will indeed be the "gift that keeps on giving," we’re talking longevity folks! 

I was especially excited when I learned the management of KISS FM decided to spotlight one of Birmingham's own during this important day.  Halo Wheeler is a 15-year-old sophomore who is about to take the national music scene by storm.   Her debut CD "This is Who I Am" dropped August 11th and so far, it's getting rave reviews. 

Halo is expected to perform at least three of the songs that are currently in heavy rotation on KISS FM. It's her way of thanking the people of Birmingham for their love and support.   To learn more about Halo Wheeler, visit "THE VW NETWORK" at www.facebook.com/vwnetwork.

Join me Central Alabama, as we stand united in making certain we check in on this 'health festival' for a day of "FUN" and FITNESS Spread the word; tell a friend, VISION/VOICE/VARION is giving you information for "your heart and soul."